Duncan Garner - Editor In Chief

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

Mr Outcomes has finally wrangled his coalition partners into a hopefully cohesive government. But now the real work starts, and the country waits with baited breath.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She was a lively old 'Week That Was' panel today! I was joined by Chief Executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce Simon Bridges and Founder and CEO of Valocity and Data Insight Carmen Vicelich to discuss: The coalition negotiations. Congestion charges. Why the 'City of Sails' can't seem to host any sailing events. And the dire state of our marine environments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the coalition negotiations finally seem to be drawing to a close, the most significant sticking point seems to be who will be Deputy Prime Minister. Seymour once said it's not about the jobs. It's always about the jobs.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us on this candid journey with Pio Terei, a revered comedian, actor, and two-decade veteran at The Parenting Place. With a twinkle in his eye and a wealth of experience, Pio speaks about living between the Māori and Pākehā worlds, painting a vivid picture of New Zealand's societal evolution. We traverse topics that dig deep into the heart of our daily lives, unravelling the beauty of simplicity, the dangers of excessive device usage, and the misunderstood concept of wealth. Pio provides a captivating firsthand account of being in the inaugural Te Reo Māori class in 1974, lending an intimate perspective to the changing landscape of Māori treatment, and stresses the value of learning and embracing Māori culture in shaping an inclusive society. We also look at fatherhood, poverty, and community impact — topics that resonate deeply with Pio as tells of of meeting birth parents for the first time, and also of losing a child. Truly one of New Zealand's good guys, this conversation brims with wisdom, warmth, love and Kiwiness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It feels like we have been discussing and debating this for years and yet here we are in 2023 and we still have a problem with destructive and unsustainable fishing practices in New Zealand. We are one of the last countries in the South Pacific to still bottom trawl. It's impact can be devastating. What can be done, and who will do it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we navigate New Zealand's troubled fishing waters with Sam Woolford from LegaSea. Sam gives us a harrowing look at the devastating impact of commercial bottom trawling on marine life, the alarming loss of species and benthic environment destruction contributing to this crisis. In particular we take a hard look at the issue of overfishing and the use of destructive fishing techniques in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Whilst we need to put pressure on the Ministry for Primary Industries to prioritise more than just exports, we need to take individual responsibility. The concept of kaitiakitanga, or responsible stewardship, urges everyone to play their part in preserving the future of fishing in New Zealand. Will you join us in this fight? https://legasea.co.nz/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MFAT is a ministry usually too scared to make any decision unless it’s made for them. So why does it appear they are looking at removing te reo Maori from some of it's official useage? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're pulling back the curtain on the exclusive religious sect known as the Exclusive Brethren with our guest, Craig Hoyle, author of the new bestselling book "Excommunicated". Raised in the unyielding grip of the Brethren, Craig exposes the generational trauma and unravels the intricacies of his deeply personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance within a rigid religious community. He shares the pangs of guilt surrounding his sexuality, the futile attempts at 'curing' him through prayer and exorcism, and his futile relocation to Australia. But this is also a story of resilience, as he navigates the emotional maelstrom of coming out to his family, the devastating repercussions, and his eventual excommunication. This is a brutal, uncompromisingly intimate look into the aftermath of leaving an oppressive religious community. Craig's narrative illuminates his grueling experiences, and is a stark reminder of the dark underbelly of extreme religious beliefs, and the extraordinary courage it takes to break free and embrace one's true self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the coalition negotiations continue I wonder whether some in the media are paying too much attention to the length of time it is taking. Does the general public really care as much as the media think? I am not so sure.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered how a tool and die maker apprentice from New Zealand ended up launching rockets into space and competing with the likes of Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk? Strap in for a thrilling journey with Peter Beck, the founder of Rocket Lab, who's daring to dream big and rewrite the rules of the space industry. With 22 rocket launches planned for next year and the Neutron, a larger rocket designed for lifting heavier satellites into low Earth orbit, Rocket Lab is heading for the stars. With cutting-edge breakthroughs in propulsion technology making space travel more efficient and less risky, Peter shares insights into the future of space tourism and the challenges and progress in human space travel. He also delves into the intriguing world of space exploration and global competition. Becks story is a testament to the power of dreaming big and believing in the impossible, and believing that it can happen in a little country at the bottom of the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm an 'active relaxer'. I struggle to sit still for too long. I like doing stuff. This has traditionally meant that I've not been great at getting a restful nights sleep as I often find myself lying awake with an overactive brain. However, I've recently found something that seems to be helping with the sleeping blues.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I'm joined by not only two great New Zealander's but two of our best broadcasters. Graeme Hill, who has branched out into avocados, and Petra Bagust, host of the 'Grey Area's' podcast, are in studio with the EIC to discuss: The missing coalition government. Protecting our kids from violent pornography. Thrifting. And the highs and lows of travelling alone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you bank locally? Or are you, like the vast majority of Kiwis, with one of the big four Australian-owned banks? It's reporting season for bank profits and yet again the numbers are eye-watering. So why don't more of us bank local to try and keep more of our money in the country? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an inspiring chat with Dean Lonergan, the hard-working Kiwi league player and entrepreneur who has tasted both success and failure in equal measure. Lonergan shares his journey from rugby league international to the multi-million dollar promotions business. He is one of the industry's good guys and his candid anecdotes and insights from his life and career will inspire and motivate anyone with a passion for sports or entrepreneurship. This is an engaging and informative discussion about boxing, rugby league, business, trying to do the right thing, and the highs and lows of life as a promoter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm filing a missing report with the police today. One coalition government - have you seen it? For some so supposedly driven by outcomes, Christopher Luxon seems to have stumbled at the very first hurdle.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Remember the sheer joy of discovering a hidden gem in a thrift store? Our guest today, Wendy Quach, founder of '& Again', has transformed that experience into a unique online platform. Wendy has ingeniously married her passion for thrifting and her tech background into a streamlined process, making it effortlessly simple to sell secondhand clothes online. From a modest beginning in her parents’ bedroom, she has grown her venture into an expansive 280-square-metre warehouse. Before you hit 'checkout' on your favorite e-commerce site, stop and consider, can you buy better? Wendy has some insights to share. She advocates for conscious consumerism, encouraging customers to buy quality over quantity. In our conversation, Wendy delves into the role of AI in digital commerce and the potential it holds to revolutionize online shopping. We also discuss the crucial shift towards ethical fashion in New Zealand as Wendy encourages young people to be more mindful about the origin and impact of their garments. Wendy is not just building an online secondhand clothing empire, but also fostering an environment that pushes people to consider the footprint of their clothes. From being the daughter of refugees to becoming an influential voice in sustainable fashion, Wendy's story is a testament to the power of a good idea and the courage to execute it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many of our under 12yo's have access to devices that can quickly and easily get them online. Once there they are at the mercy of the 'wild west' that is the internet. So what are they being exposed to, how is it getting in front of them, and who's responsibility should it be to police and educate? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The online world is a wild west, where our children are exposed to unspeakable acts of depravity. From real rape scenes to animal bestiality, the online content accessible to our youngsters is a ticking time bomb. We’re going to strip this issue bare, question why protective measures are not in place, and call out the lack of governmental action. We’re pushing for effective blocks, barriers, and firewalls to shield our children from this horror show. Holly Brooker and Jo Robertson are the women behind the Makes Sense campaign. The campaign is advocating for child protection from illegal violent sexual content by improving filters, expanding 'block lists' and being proactive around helping those in need and those in danger. We invite you, our listeners, to be our allies, asking you to contribute to the conversation and advocate for change. It's time to protect our future generations. Are you with us? Visit https://www.makessense.org.nz/ for more information on how you can make a real difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary broadcaster Paul Henry once offered me some sage advice around meeting your fans/listeners. Don't do it, they're bound to be crazy. With those 'wise words' ringing in my ears, I headed off to a remote island with a couple of fans of the podcast... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Due to illness, Mumsy found herself minus her travelling partner on the eve of a big trip to Europe. In your 70's this can be a worrying situation, but I suggested that she go on the trip by herself as who knows when she may next get the opportunity. So how did it all pan out, what tips and advice does Mumsy have, would she recommend it to other retirees and what song did she belt out on a karaoke night?! All is revealed in this episode as DGEIC's Mum spills the travel beans... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Labour are quietly melting down while the eyes of the nation are for the most part on the other team. The big loser in all this? Nice Guy Chippy.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 'Week That Was' today I'm joined by a GC and a KC - former breakfast tv host turned real estate guru Rawdon Christie, and criminal defence lawyer Marie Dyhrberg: Are more us struggling with debt than ever before? Speaking of struggling, if you had to get a side hustle, what would it be? What is wrong with our nursing industry? And 'Bird of the Century' goes global! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christopher. David. Winston. One hopes they are furiously beavering away behind the scenes to form a government as quickly as possible. But one is not so sure.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I sit down with Alan Thorp from Habitat for Humanity New Zealand, a man who has spent over half his life committed to providing affordable housing for families in need. Alan brings to the table a wealth of knowledge and experience on tackling housing challenges. Our conversation takes us deep into the intricacies of the New Zealand housing market, where we shine a light on the harsh realities of extended motel living and the financial implications of upgrading state housing. Not only does Alan share insights into these challenges, but he also unravels how Habitat for Humanity is making a difference by helping people transition from renting to owning their homes. Alan takes us on a fascinating tour of the complex world of housing finance, highlighting the challenges Habitat for Humanity face, the potential for long-term partnerships with the government and how these can revolutionize the housing availability scene, and how their secondhand goods stores are not just about selling pre-loved items, but also about raising significant funds for housing projects. From the housing sector's nitty-gritty to the life-changing impact of homeownership, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Media companies are often some of the first to feel the pinch when times are tough and other businesses pull back on 'discretionary spending' such as advertising. The fallout from high inflation is starting to bite. Really bite. So what does this mean for you and I? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this compelling conversation, I am joined by Nicola Toki from Forest and Bird. While Forest & Bird turns 100 this year, the 'Bird of the Year' competition has been running since 2005 and has become a wonderful way to celebrate and learn about nature. This years special 'Bird of the Century' competition has become a global phenomenon, thanks to television star John Oliver's recent involvement. In the podcast Nicola talks about the remarkable work of Forest and Bird and the sobering reality of conservation challenges in New Zealand, with 82% of all our current native birds on the threatened species list. What part do cats and deer play in threatening native bird species and what effect do the efforts of campaigns like Save the Kiwi have? Nicola sheds light on the progress of the organisation, and the challenges in securing support and funds. We delve into the changing perceptions of the environment among New Zealanders, how volunteers are taking action to protect wildlife, and we look at the importance of investing in protecting our environment, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and the need for a shift in mindset towards conservation land. Tune in to learn more about reconnecting with nature, the devastating impact of natural events on wildlife, and how you can support conservation efforts through donations and volunteering. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On todays podcast episode Amanda (not her real name) spoke openly and honestly about why she quit nursing after loving it for 20 years. If alarm bells weren't already ringing throughout New Zealand's nursing industry, they most definitely should be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I was taken aback when I first heard the nerve-racking stories of Amanda, a 20-year veteran in nursing who courageously decided to walk away from her profession. It's tough to imagine the anguish that Amanda had to endure while facing unsafe practices, assault, and abuse during her tenure in New Zealand hospitals. Our discussion is a revealing portrait of the grim realities of healthcare facilities in these tumultuous times. Amanda (not her real name) tells of the hardship nurses endure, the distressing scarcity of resources, the emotional trauma of handling difficult patients, and the relentless workload that is expected to be managed without proper support. She sheds light on the systemic challenges haunting the healthcare system—disparity in pay, underfunding, and the detrimental impact of recent health system overhauls on the workforce. Amanda's transformation story and her bravery to speak out for the sake of public safety are not to be missed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christopher Luxon now finds himself with a tricky balancing act on his hands. On one side you have the wiley old kingmaker Winston Peters, while on the other side is ACT leader David Seymour who, despite getting more of the vote, may now have to play third fiddle... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drawing from his own experiences of growing up in a single parent household struggling with debt, Mark Francis, the executive general manager of DebtManagers, has reimagined debt collection in a way that provides a breath of fresh air. He brings a refreshing perspective to the harsh reality of debt, prioritizing empathy and understanding in an industry often clouded by fear and pressure. Having been at the receiving end of the debt collection process, Mark has made it his mission to redefine the industry by treating customers as people, not just debtors. This is at times a sobering discussion highlighted by the alarming statistics that 55% of people are under financial strain and 51% are barely staying afloat. Mark also shares the shocking reality faced in the UK, where debt drives 100,000 people to attempt suicide each year. His approach to debt collection is shaped by these realities, emphatically underlining that the way we speak to people about debt can significantly influence their response. Mark's story shows how a respectful outlook and empathetic communication can revolutionize debt collection, and why treating customers as people, not just debtors, is our collective responsibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Politicians. Remember them? They've gone from being everywhere (except on DGEIC if you're Christopher Luxon) to being as hard to spot as a kiwi during daylight hours. So what is going on behind the closed doors... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's 'Week That Was' panel is straight out of the top drawer. Former deputy PM turned commercial real estate whiz Paula Bennett, and fellow real estate agent and legendary sportscaster Hamish McKay get stuck into: What has happened in politics since the election? Is anybody home? What has happened to rugby since the RWC final? The Ruthless Empire case and the 'right to silence' And what to seek out, and avoid, when bargain shopping Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The tragic case of Ruthless-Empire has once again highlighted something in our legal system that I believe urgently needs looking at. No right to silence. No plea bargain. No discounts on sentence. No background story. No sympathy from judges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pull up a chair as we journey through the labyrinth of political life with former Labour Party Minister Stuart Nash, who imparts fascinating insider tales from his time in Parliament. Together, we dissect the relentless demands of a ministerial role, delve into complex decision-making during the pandemic era, and appraise key political figures including Jacinda Ardern and Grant Robinson. This candid conversation provides a rare glimpse into the machinations of Parliament, from advocating for constituents and navigating government red tape, to the heated issue of gun reforms. Nash confronts the debate on justice versus revenge, offering personal insights on the delicate balancing act between political and familial responsibilities, and looks at the crucial distinction between career politicians and those fuelled by passion. Nash's frank and honest perspective, honed by personal experiences, offers a revealing insight into life inside the political environment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hallowe'en is Americanised rubbish. Not our thing. Annoying. I don't get it and I don't get why it has become so popular here. Well, that was until yesterday... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teuila Blakely will be familiar to many Kiwis thanks to her roles on tv and film productions such as Shortland Street and Sione's Wedding. As such, she has found herself leading the way for Pasifika women in the tv/film industry She was also involved in a high-profile sex-tape incident with former NZ Warriors player Konrad Hurrell but refused to let that define her. In this episode Teuila talks about her upbringing and the 'overt racism' her family had to overcome, the recent passing of her mother, and what we could learn from our pacific neighbours. Enchanting, intelligent, talented and a delight to sit down with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices