Duncan Garner - Editor In Chief

Despite all the talk of climate change and ditching gas guzzling cars, electric cars still need good roads, and our future is a mix of all transport options. But at the heart of that is a good motorway. Investing in roading infrastructure is as important as it has ever been. Don't let the greenies and the naysayers convince you otherwise.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embark on a transformative journey with Api, a man whose story is a powerful testament to overcoming a past riddled with crime. Following his release from prison in 2008, Api has not only gained employment for the first time in his 40s but has also claimed a new identity as a trusted gardener and burger flipper. His reflections on trust, personal growth, and the pivotal moments that rerouted his life's direction are both enlightening and deeply moving. Through Api's narrative, we navigate the complex voyage from incarceration to the outside world, focusing on the profound impact that family influence and a desire for a better future can have on personal transformation. It's not every day you meet someone who has gone from convict to head of security, but that's precisely the kind of inspiring story we cover in this candid conversation. We delve into the challenges faced when re-entering society, the barriers that stand tall, and the unyielding determination needed to shatter them. This episode also presents an intimate look at surviving life's lowest points. The road to redemption is paved with respect, karma, and an unwavering spirit, proving that everyone has the potential for a fresh start and a life reimagined. Join us as we celebrate the enduring human spirit and the pursuit of acceptance after a life once confined by prison walls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Men aged over 45 made up 60 percent of the 90 preventable drownings in New Zealand in 2023. Last night I got a first-hand glimpse as to why this is the case when I went fishing with a friend. Come on guys, lets get smarter around the water... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first panel of the year I am joined by a couple of outstanding broadcasters, who also happen to be a couple of my favourite people. New AM host Lloyd Burr and former Black Fern and sports broadcaster Melodie Robinson. And what an entertaining panel it was... The government and the treaty. The US presidential race. Council spending blowouts. And how are ugly are Kiwis really? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It doesn't happen often but today I find myself wholeheartedly agreeing with Auckland mayor Wayne Brown. Why on earth does it cost $500k to build a pedestrian crossing? Something is seriously not right here... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embark on a captivating journey with Nathan Fa'avae, an adventure sports icon whose three-decade career is nothing short of legendary. From the starting blocks of a small town to the podiums of international endurance sports, Nathan's story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. As he opens up about the evolution of his motivations and the camaraderie that defines the spirit of competition, he also takes us behind the scenes of his innovative foray into the freeze-dried food market, catering to the nutritional needs of outdoor enthusiasts like himself. This episode delves into the intricate relationship between genetics and athletic prowess, highlighting the diverse challenges athletes face against the backdrop of their heritage. Nathan discusses the personal sacrifices synonymous with high-level competition and the seemingly selfish dedication required, all while maintaining the delicate balance of contributing to family and community. His personal anecdotes from participating in life-altering outdoor programs add a layer of depth, illustrating how early experiences can chart the course for a lifetime of adventure. Nathan give us a first-hand understanding of the mental and physical fortitude necessary to compete at the zenith of adventure sports. This is an episode that transcends the ordinary and ventures into the extraordinary life of a man for whom every race is an adventure, and every meal is a milestone. https://nathanfaavae.nz/ https://realmeals.co.nz/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial Intelligence is getting better by the hour. Just ask Christopher Luxon and Simon Gault, recent high-profile victims of A.I created clips. But whilst an A.I generated Luxon talking about his favourite porn sites must be a bit distracting, has the government had it's attention diverted from what it really should be focusing on? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlock the secrets to a greener, more mindful approach to menstruation with Kylie Matthews, the COO of AWWA Period Care, as your guide. Every word with Kylie is a step toward breaking the silence that shrouds period talk, as we unearth the Maori cultural influences that shape AWWA's vision and their pursuit to rewrite the narrative around menstrual health. We discuss the societal shift needed to support menstruating individuals, not just in understanding their own bodies but also in generating an empathetic dialogue among partners and families. Strap in for a candid exploration of the realities of nurturing a blooming enterprise in Blenheim—a testament to community and connection in small-town New Zealand. Plus, we tackle the 'buzz' around a bold promotion, discussing the nuances of marketing strategies that aim to empower women's health and pleasure, all the while navigating the complexities of responsible consumer engagement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whilst what happened recently with the young person dying after being involved in an accident while driving on Muriwai beach was tragic, I hope it does not trigger a knee-jerk reaction. The vast majority of Kiwis drive on our beaches in a responsible manner. Here's my suggestion on how we can continue to do this.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Banish those post-holiday blues and turn career contemplation into action with guidance from clinical psychologist Dougal Sutherland. In this episode, we unravel the complexities of easing back into work after the festive season and the crucial importance of taking small, strategic steps when considering a career shift. Whether you're dealing with Sunday night jitters or boredom in your current role, we share a slew of practical tips to help you find engagement and motivation, alongside Dougal's invaluable insights on planning for change without jeopardizing financial stability. Are four-day workweeks and nine-day fortnights the key to a happier workforce and increased productivity? How can these emerging trends play a key role in shaping a more flexible workplace? We confront the elephant in the room: burnout. Dougal helps us spot the red flags, from emotional fatigue to slumps in performance, and offers advice on early intervention. This is a discussion designed not only to inform but to reassure you that it's normal to feel apprehensive about new beginnings. Tune in and start your year with a boost of confidence and the knowledge to overcome the post-holiday challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Slam Dunc returns for 2024 with a bumper edition, and there has been plenty to get stuck in to... National, Maori and white supremacy? Golriz, shoplifting and her mental wellbeing. Middle aged men continuing to do dumb things around water. And is there more to life than this?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hi folks, it's your favourite Editor-in-Chief returning for a new year and a brand new season (apparently I have seasons now...) Expect more of the same for S2 (apparently season is just shortened to 'S'...) - more interviews with interesting Kiwis, more editorial takes from yours truly, more Producer Dave-O, more of your Letters to the Editor. In this first episode back I'll tell how I came closer than I would have liked to dying over the break, plus I'll give you my take on some of the bigger news stories so far in 2024. Let's go... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I think I've shed more tears this year than any other one I can remember. I began the year doing my dream job, and ended it having made 159 podcast episodes. 2023 has been tough but has taught me invaluable lessons... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A special panel to wrap up the first season of DGEIC where I'm joined by two of my absolute favourites to review the year that was and to look ahead to 2024. Mikey Havoc - broadcaster, legend, and Marie Dyhrberg, KC, criminal defence lawyer, also a legend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicola Willis has so far been mostly impressive in her new role as Finance Minister. Today she delivered the so-called 'mini budget', where she has found $7.5billion in savings. What does this say about the previous government? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the holiday spirit fills the air, our thoughts turn to those who forgo the festivities to keep us safe. This episode is a tribute to the emergency service workers whose dedication shines brightest when our need is greatest. I'm joined by the Chief Executive of Wellington Free Ambulance, David Robinson, to discuss the challenges of funding for these vital services and the remarkable resilience of frontline heroes. David paints a vivid picture of the high-stakes scenarios they encounter daily, from the tension of cardiac arrests to the gentle care provided in palliative transfers. Their stories are a compelling call to action for government and community support, a reminder that behind the statistics are individuals with a profound commitment to our wellbeing. We share a collective responsibility to support these heroes. The generosity of the community is crucial in ensuring the continuous operation of these essential services. This episode stands as a celebration of achievements and a heartfelt acknowledgment of the generosity that binds the community together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My old school, Westlake Boys High, have won rugby’s World Schools Festival in Thailand. I'm so pleased for them but in New Zealand we can sometimes be reluctant to celebrate our successes publicly, be it sporting, business or otherwise. Does the 'Tall Poppy' syndrome still exist in Kiwi culture? Should we be shouting louder about our successes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mumsy gets nearly as much fan mail as we do, so it only seemed right to get her back in the studio one last time this year. How has her year been, what might her 2024 look like, and can I get her to sing a Xmas carol (spoiler alert - yes I can...) Oh, and Mumsy has her first fan experience. Who and where was it?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicola Willis is doing what every incoming government does and that is to trash the reputation of the previous government. She is basically saying they openly misled Kiwis to make themselves look like better economic managers than they were. We have a Public Finance Act, and an Auditor General. Can someone please get to the bottom of this... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casey is a mother whose fortitude is tried and tested to it's limits as she fights for the rights of her two-year-old son, Wolf. Born prematurely and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Wolf's journey is a complex labyrinth of disability care options and services. Casey's passion echoes through the episode as she shares her skirmishes with ACC over coverage and her trying dispute with their disability service provider. There's a profound power in claiming accountability. A disgruntled customer harnesses this power in an intense narrative, pinpointing their dissatisfaction with a company that fell short of their expectations. This story underscores the importance of standing up for one's rights and not backing down in the face of adversity. Listen and learn from the bravery of those who refuse to be undervalued or overlooked. Their determination may just stoke the fire in you to demand better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the last things the last government did was to bring in fair pay agreements. One of the first things the new government has done is to repeal those fair pay agreements. So, who has got it right when it comes to fair pay? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the penultimate 'Week That Was' panel for the year I'm joined by The Edge afternoon host, and greenskeeper, Nickson Clark, and radio royalty Leah Panapa. Plenty to get stuck into this week: All the things the government are repealing. What is going on with the Cook Strait ferries? Should we be allowed to drive on our beaches? And is leaving passive aggressive notes for stranger ever a good idea.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new government has said 'no thanks' to KiwiRail’s request for an extra $1.47 billion for infrastructure needed for Cook Strait’s new mega-ferries. There's no doubt the costs around the project have blown out, but where does this leave the vital inter-island crossing, and what does the government now do about it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When I was their age, my biggest concerns were probably what toy I wanted for my birthday or how much more time I could spare to play outside before sunset. But, in today's episode, my young guests, Buster, Lukka, and Jarelle , show us that being 12 or 13 isn't all fun and games. As we chat about everything from school reports and math grades to the implications of climate change and lowering the voting age to 16, I'm often left in awe of their profound insights. These boys, though young, express opinions that are both entertaining and thoughtfully fresh. Engaging in a lively conversation, we try to understand their world, their favorite social platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, encounters like tagging in school bathrooms, or even being banned from TikTok. There's something about the innocence of youth that allows these boys to view the concept of 'age' differently. From discussing politics to what they consider 'old', to sharing their frustrations about their parents, this episode is filled with laughter, surprises, and a whole lot of honesty. So join us, as we journey through the minds of these young men - unfiltered, authentic, and as entertaining as they come! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 79 a lot of men are spending their pension, getting a funeral plan sorted, wearing the same cords for the third straight day and playing indoor fake lawn bowls whilst waiting for meals on wheels to show up. Not Winnie - he's just knocked out a 24hr stint as Acting Prime Minister. So, how did he do? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to feel inspired and make a difference? Join me for a heartening conversation with Wayne Langford, the driving force behind the life-changing 'Meat the Need' telethon. The aim? To provide a whopping 1.2 million meat and milk meals for 110 food banks across New Zealand. Wayne, a humble farmer with a massive heart, takes us through the conception of this incredible charity event as it enters it's second year. It is a testament to the strength of community unity in bolstering the vulnerable during tough times. The charity initiative began with feeding the homeless but quickly discovered the wider need in the community. Yes, even middle-class families can experience hardship due to unforeseen expenses. Food is a basic human right and these guys are making sure it’s delivered. Hear about the immense potential of surplus food from the farming sector in supporting local communities. And brace yourselves, the upcoming telethon is not just about giving, it's about having a blast while you're at it. With a mélange of challenges, activities, and even a potential tattoo artist's involvement, it's an event that promises unpredictability and excitement. So come, be a part of this amazing journey, and remember - every donation counts. For further information, to watch, and to donate visit their website - https://meattheneed.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It seems to me there are two distinctly different Christopher Luxons - Private Chris and Public Chris. Either way, one of the Luxons needs to guide his coalition pals Winston and David away from a potential race war cliff. Maori are increasingly unhappy, and rightly so. And they are not going to go quietly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the shoes of Nat Milne, a successful businesswoman who has cracked the code to stress-free productivity. This episode is your golden ticket to understanding how to create a healthy work-life balance, as Nat shares her journey and the transformative impact the Beminded program has had on her life. Hear about her struggles and successes in juggling a thriving business and family life, and get an insider's view on how managing stress became her gateway to success. Beyond productivity hacks, we underscore the critical role of mindfulness and stress management in the workplace. We also explore the pros of remote work, the social aspects of the workplace and their impact on productivity. This conversation may well help chart your path to a less stressful, more productive work experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've been saying this a fair bit recently but this has been a tough year for many of us. And unfortunately next year may not see much improvement. So how can we keep our spirits up and our stress levels down over the holiday season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with River Paton from Pivot by Explore, a holistic alcohol, drug, and wellbeing service. We explore Pivot's unique approach to helping individuals grappling with substance use, addressing the difference between heavy drinking and addiction, and how self-referrals can initiate the journey towards recovery. River's insights underscore the importance of trained professionals and wellbeing coaches with lived experience, whose authenticity helps build stronger connections with their clients. We discuss societal pressures surrounding alcohol consumption, particularly as the holiday season approaches. Our conversation encompasses the accessibility and social acceptance of alcohol, the resulting holiday pressures, and the limited availability of support services during this period. Let's normalise talking about our addictions and how to get help for them. These are conversations that could well save lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I am full of fatherly pride. But I am also concerned we are in danger of being divided along 'iwi versus Kiwi' lines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm joined by a couple of broadcasting legends for this weeks panel. Men's health campaigner Mark Sainsbury and founder & director at Wils & Co Media Wilhelmina Shrimpton sit down with me to discuss: Mark Mitchell's police agenda. The govt's tax cuts. Pookeno. And selecting overseas All Blacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This could happen to any of us. Kiwi covers band 'The Pink Floyd Experience' recently lost everything to hackers. Their business, social media pages, their identities and their ability to make money. So how did it end? It’s a warning to us all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have all heard about hackers stealing identities, but have you ever wondered how it impacts individuals and businesses on a professional and personal level? In this episode I bring you an intimate conversation with Darren Whittaker, the lead man of 'The Pink Floyd Experience' tribute band, who knows all too well the havoc that cyber-criminals can wreak. He walks us through the harrowing experience of losing control of their social media accounts, thereby stalling their operations and even holding up an upcoming tour. Hear about how the band tackled the crisis head on and the challenges they faced in regaining their online presence. In the face of adversity the show must go on as they say, and their dedication to their craft and love for their fans kept them going through some extremely challenging times. So, sit back and plug in for this incredible story of music, resilience, dedication, and a fight with a tech giant... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There comes a time in a fathers life when he just has to admit that his son now has the wood on him. I have been putting off owning up to it, but for me, that time is now... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever been punched in the gut by a societal issue? That's how it feels tackling the lack of wrap-around services for underprivileged children in our communities. As we showcase the amazing work of the "I Have a Dream" charity in this episode, we're reminded of just how vital these services are. This charity pairs kids with navigators to guide them through school and into adulthood – a truly inspirational approach. Chris Twiss is the CEO of the "I Have a Dream." charitable trust. He sits down with me to give us an intimate look into the importance of building relationships with children in challenging communities, the impact of intergenerational challenges, and how we can all play a part in transforming lives. The harsh realities faced by some kids in New Zealand are very real, and the commendable efforts of organisations like "I Have a Dream," should not go unnoticed. But there is an urgent need for private donors and businesses to invest in these initiatives. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about the transformative power of charities and the importance of amplifying this work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The government is softening us up for changes in their so-called 'mini budget'. But what did I hear in Christopher Luxon's announcement yesterday? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover a world that lies under the radar yet influences society in profound ways. Renowned gang researcher, Jarrod Gilbert, takes us on a journey into the heart of New Zealand's gangs. Gilbert, having lived amidst these communities for six years, brings unique insider perspectives. He dissects the nuances of gang culture, and the ethical dilemmas he faced during his time with the gangs. We look at the complexities of gang-community dynamics, the potential fallout from new firearms laws, and the realities of gang-related issues often overlooked by policy makers. Gilbert also explains the history of gang facial tattoos and the potential implications of the current proposal to ban gang patches. This is a fascinating journey into a world usually shrouded in mystery, fear, and misunderstanding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Still the story rages on, and the more the Government explains the dumping of our smoke free laws to pay for tax cuts, the more they sound like they're losing the argument. Rather than being laudable, this policy is laughable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I sit down with the newly appointed Chief Children's Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad, for an important conversation on children's rights in New Zealand. Dr Achmad shares her thoughts on the necessity for advocacy for these rights, spotlighting the often-dismissed matters in governmental decision-making processes that directly impact our younger generation. From child poverty, accessibility to healthcare and education, to the silent epidemic of family violence, Dr Achmad provides an in-depth analysis of real-life challenges that children in New Zealand face. Are we doing enough to care for our children within the state system? Emphasising the crucial role early childhood plays, we discuss the need for targeted support for families, and the need to break the intergenerational cycle of violence. This episode will leave you contemplating the pressing issues surrounding the rights of young people and the urgent need for us all to take action. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tis the season for socialising with work colleagues. Here is your old mate EIC's advice to survive, and thrive, at the staff Xmas party... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guests this week are partner at Previously Unavailable, co founder of Ingrid Starnes and host of ‘Business is Boring’ podcast Simon Pound, and broadcaster and Celebrity Treasure Island survivor Mel Homer. Lots to sink our teeth into this week... The government's 'First 100 Days' plans. Is there a gender double-standard around being drunk in public? Should government departments be phasing out te reo Maori? And why oh why don't we use investment funds to fund infrastructure projects in this country? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wellington mayor Tory Whanau has come out and admitted she has a problem with alcohol. Why people feel the need to film public figures living their supposedly private lives is another story, but this is not the first instance of publicly elected officials and alcohol not mixing well. However, I have a sense we could be seeing some double-standards at play here... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for an intimate journey with one of my all-time favourite broadcasters, the legendary PJ Montgomery. Peter sheds light on the personal and professional aspects of his life, from finding himself in the commentary booth through to the recent loss of his beloved wife Claudia. He also talks frankly about the profound transformation he's witnessed in the broadcasting arena. Ever wondered how the digital age has reshaped the world of broadcasting? PJ takes us through this journey, discussing the impact of digital media and the ensuing challenges it presents for commentators. We also dive into the contentious issues, and the role of government, around the America's Cup. Peter does not hold back. Settle in for an enriching, emotional journey into the world of broadcasting, sailing, and overcoming personal adversities with one of the best to ever do it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I find it extraordinary that in 2023 I'm even saying something like this but has this new government traded peoples lives in order to fund tax cuts for the wealthy? I am of course talking about the decision to scrap New Zealand's world-leading 'generation ban' on smoking. Some health experts are saying this repealing could cost up to 5,000 lives per year. It is morally bankrupt, and I am utterly stunned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simplicity founder Sam Stubbs is wanting to change the way New Zealander's look at housing, and investing in infrastructure in general. In this episode he joins me to for a look into the current housing crisis and what he, and others, could and should be doing about it. He also discusses the role New Zealand's pension funds should play in long-term investments in infrastructure projects, comparing their impact on economic growth with successful models like Singapore and Denmark. Sam also spotlights the pressing need for reform in New Zealand's banking sector, saying that we have been duped by the Aussie banks for too long. In my opinion Sam Stubbs should be a contender for New Zealander of the Year. Listen on to find out why. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gay or straight, black or white, big or small - human beings are all different. I have no time for people or organisations who marginalise or discriminate against those who they perceive to be different to them. Who are we to be judging how other people choose to live their lives? Why not focus our efforts on getting along a little better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered what it's like to raise a transgender child? As well as being cohosts on The Breeze radio station, Robert Rakete and Jeanette Thomas are both parents to transgender children. These two offer a candid peek into their lives, sharing intimate experiences and the battles they’ve fought for acceptance. They speak frankly about their struggles, their triumphs, and the unique journey of parenting a transgender child. Despite prejudices and fears still plaguing the transgender community, Robert & Jeanette share heartening tales of acceptance. Encouraging progress is being made by younger generations in embracing diversity, yet we must acknowledge the reality of a long road ahead for true equality. So, come join us on this enlightening journey, as we foster understanding, acceptance, and above all, love for all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Warning: The following content includes discussions about suicidal thoughts that may cause emotional distress. In this Editor-in-Chief discussion, Kamahl Santamaria discusses the severe impact on his mental health following allegations of inappropriate behavior at TVNZ. Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP).Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email [email protected] or online chat.Samaritans – 0800 726 666Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).Healthline – 0800 611 116 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his first public interview in 18 months controversial journalist Kamahl Santamaria sits down with the Editor in Chief to tell his side of the story. Santamaria was sensationally removed from TVNZ's 'Breakfast' show last year after only 32 days as host. The press release said it was due to a 'family emergency' but it since transpired that there were allegations of inappropriate behaviour toward female staff members. This wasn't the first time these sorts of allegations had been made against Santamaria. What effect has this had on him and his family, will he ever work in the media again and what can and can't he say about what actually happened? DGEIC meets Kamahl Santamaria. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices