Duncan Garner - Editor In Chief

Are we better losers than we used to be when it comes to the All Blacks? Are the bad old days of calling for players heads after a big loss behind us? I hope so and I hope the New Zealand public give the players the warmest of welcomes when they arrive home after what was ultimately a pretty successful World Cup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for a riveting conversation with Mike Bennetts, the former CEO of Z Energy. Mike shares the trials and tribulations he faced as he tried to transition the company to biofuels. Despite his efforts, the venture was unsuccessful, leading the company to reset its vision, values, strategy, and community connections. Mike discusses the challenges they faced, the significant investment in revamping convenience stores, how the Shell brand became a limitation for their green aspirations, and shares his insights and considerable experience with fuel pricing and New Zealand's fuel security. We also explore the potential tipping point for electric vehicles in New Zealand and the implications it could have on petrol stations, and indeed the lives of virtually all Kiwis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2023 Rugby World Cup final highlighted what any people have been increasingly worried about of late. And that is our traditional national game is broken. World Rugby need to stand up, take responsibility and fix the bloody thing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For this episode I had the absolute pleasure of talking with New Zealand business royalty Sir Michael Hill. In an extended chat Michael talks about his upbringing, problems with bullying and family, learning his trade and building a multi-national business empire, those adverts, and passing on his secrets to success to younger New Zealanders. This is an enthralling conversation with a surprisingly humble man who has been there and done that when it comes to turning a small business into a household name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A potentially precedent-setting case is currently playing out in our Supreme Court. It involves a young sex offender who is asking for permanent name suppression. Should he get it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 'Week That Was' panel this week we have former head of New Zealand Rugby David Moffett, and one of my fav's who is now a leading business advisor at The Engine, Christine Rankin. I get their thoughts on: The election result and how the leaders fared. The Rugby World Cup and some naughty All Blacks. The state of our tourism industry, and where to holiday in UnZud. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pre-Covid, tourism was New Zealand's number one earner. Now it is number three, having shed billions of annual dollars. While countries such as Australia are upping their tourism marketing spend in order to try and reinvigorate their tourism industry, New Zealand has been cutting back its promotional spending. Is this the right approach? And who should be leading our international tourism charge? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest today is Gavin Oliver, the founding director of EcoZip Adventures. Gavin's journey from UK visitor to successful business owner brings a unique perspective to the conversation about the trials and triumphs of New Zealand's tourism sector. We dig into the current state of the industry, and ask if the absence of tourism dialogue in recent political campaigns is a missed opportunity. How should New Zealand revamp its tourism strategies? Should we be targeting 'high-value' visitors over backpackers? Is now the time to be cutting back on spending that promotes New Zealand to overseas tourists? Pre-Covid, tourism was out number one earner. Now it has dropped to number three. Australia is upping its tourism marketing spend to aggressively target the lucrative foreign tourist markets. How we compete could make all the difference when it comes to recouping the lost billions in annual tourist spending, which keeps hundreds of thousands of Kiwis employed. This is an important conversation that affects virtually all of us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a shall we say 'underwhelming' election result, is the Labour Party actually now fighting for its survival? It sounds drastic to say that but I believe they could be in danger of becoming a minor party, or even slowly dying out altogether.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prepare to have your assumptions about hybrid work shattered. Promising to reveal the inner workings of this new normal, my guest Gillian Brookes, a renowned expert on hybrid working, weighs in on the impact it has on our lives and how we are acclimating to this shift. Research that shows how getting it right at home can potentially increase productivity by around 3-4%. What are the potential cost savings for businesses by having a remote workforce? But what about possible downsides such as the impact on our CBD's, the implications of remote work on infrastructure, workers feeling disconnected and alone, and so on. This episode is a deep dive into the changing hybrid work landscape that is likely coming for most of us in some shape in the coming years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACT Party leader David Seymour has reiterated a referendum on the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi would be a condition for forming a government in coalition with National. Surely this is the last thing New Zealand needs at the moment?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to be enthralled as I am joined by Phillis Meti, a four-time golfing world champion in the long drive format. Phillis is currently in Atlanta preparing for her fifth world championship but takes time out to talk with DGEIC about her 17 years at the top, her passion for helping others, and the neurodiversity battles she has had to overcome on the way. She was introduced to golf by her father, and incredibly she won her first world championship at just 19 years old at her very first attempt. Phillis has a wonderfully kind heart and wants to give others the opportunity to learn and share their stories. This episode is full of compelling narratives, insightful discussions, and is a heart-warming glimpse into the fascinating world of the golfing superstar New Zealand didn't know it had. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Call it a 'blue-nami' or a 'blue rinse' - whatever it was, the country has spoken. New Zealand now finds itself with a first-term Prime Minister who may or may not need to cosy up to Winston Peters, who once again finds himself back in parliament. And what will become of Chippy and Toni/Tony? Here's my take.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've heard it often, "A stroke could happen to anyone," and for Andrew Stopps, a dedicated music teacher and consultant, the reality of this statement hit hard one morning. Andrew takes us through his startling journey, from an uneventful morning, struggling to find a cupboard handle, to the alarming realisation that he was suffering from a stroke. Andrew's recovery journey is nothing short of inspiring as he harnesses the power of his passion for music and the arts to find resilience in the face of adversity. Andrew's struggle didn't stop at recovery; he also fought through the frustrations of dealing with New Zealand's healthcare system's limitations as he was forced to look overseas for treatment. Andrew's hopes for the future are as inspiring as his recovery journey. He wants to compose a symphony inspired by his stroke experience, and he also plans to pen a book about his recovery journey in an effort to inspire and support others navigating similar paths. This courageous journey serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, the strength of the human spirit, and the beauty of resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the Covid lockdown years Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern rammed home the 'be kind to each other' message. But did we listen, and are we listening still? I'm not so sure.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the eve of an election who better to have in studio with me than UnZud broadcasting royalty Mr Mikey Havoc, and plain language guru Shelly Davies. Lots to talk about this week.. The Election. The awful humanitarian situation around the Gaza Strip. How do we still have people living in bushes for years in New Zealand? And would you be pissed off if your holiday was cut short to save someone's life? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With election day rapidly approaching I shine the DGEIC spotlight on National's first-term leader. What do we really know about Christopher Luxon, and will be be able to keep Winston and Seymour in check? And what will become of poor old Chippy should Labour go on to lose the election? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I wrangled two of New Zealand's foremost political analysts into the studio to give the upcoming election a good going over. Who is on the up, who is slipping, what might happen on election day, what might happen in the days and weeks after? And, of course, bloody Winston Peters... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From now on we're going to post my 'Slam Dunc' up as it's own stand-alone piece each day. Today's one is both personal and extremely sad. Dr Tom Mulholland has passed away. It has affected me deeply, and serves as the starkest of reminders.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we explore the fascinating and slightly terrifying world of cybersecurity in New Zealand with expert Alastair Miller from Aura Information Security. Alastair takes us through the stark reality of growing cyberattacks, from state actors targeting big corporations to teenagers manipulating computer games for ransomware, no one is safe. We have been guilty in the past of thinking that 'it won't happen to me', but the reality is cybercriminals show no discrimination when it comes to IP addresses. The implications and effects of cybercrime on New Zealand's businesses and consumers are frightening. Alastair provides valuable insights into the laws around cybercrime, the various types of cybercriminals, and the immense challenge of tracking them down. We also look at the rise of AI-driven scams and voice fraud, and the possible dangers they pose. Join us for this eye-opening conversation on the importance of safeguarding ourselves online. It may just save your business or your bank account.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a renowned journalist confronts a seemingly untouchable pharmaceutical authority? Rachel Smalley dared to do just that. Emails from Pharmac staff personally attacking Smalley, obtained under the Privacy Act, appear to reveal an alarming lack of focus, empathy and priority in the leadership group. I think heads need to roll. Immediately. Pharmac was established with the noble intention of regulating New Zealand's pharmaceutical industry in the mid-90s. However, the unchanging objectives and operations of Pharmac have left us trailing behind other Western countries in terms of access to life-saving drugs. Smalley gives us an insider's view into the workings of this body and how political influence could be a potential game-changer in shifting the focus back onto patient-centric care. This is a revealing exploration of the Pharmac system and its consequences for everyday New Zealanders. Chapters: 2:28 - Slam Dunc 5:30 - Rachel Smalley 35:47 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me on an important exploration of New Zealand's current societal challenges with the brilliant Paul Spoonley, a sociologist and population studies expert at Massey University. We look into the complexities of the largest population growth in New Zealand's history, brought about by high levels of immigration, and the opportunities and challenges that this presents. From housing speculation to political protests, Paul offers a profound understanding of how this surge impacts services, infrastructure, and the national sentiment. How does New Zealand's immigration policies compare with those in countries like Canada and Australia that have effective settlement plans? We look at the previous government's failure to engage citizens in immigration policy talks, Australia's acceptance of New Zealanders, and how a more strategic approach to immigration could shape the nation's future. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how we can, and should, adapt to New Zealand's changing demographic landscape. Chapters: 3:14 - Slam Dunc 6:03 - Paul Spoonley 32:32 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another top-shelf 'Week That Was' panel this week with greenskeeper and The Edge afternoon host Nickson Clark, and business commentator & powerhouse entrepreneur Nuwi Samarakone. We got stuck into: Is Christopher Luxon running scared? And what has happened to ACT lately? Air NZ, Sanitarium and the supermarkets - are we getting fair deals? Starting from the bottom to try and make a success of your life - the Suzanne Paul story. And men's health & wellbeing when it comes to the 'private parts'... Chapters: 3:45 - Slam Dunc 7:06 - The Week That Was 44:53 - Letters To The Editor 47:20 - Wanker Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She began selling vibrating massage pillows in a Henderson mall. Now, nearly 35 years later, there would hardly be a person in New Zealand or Australia who hasn't heard Suzanne Paul's distinctive accent promoting the latest must-have gizmo. But Suzanne’s story is not just about sales and infomercials. Her rollercoaster personal life is just as compelling. In this episode she talks about fighting her way out of poverty, her multiple marriages, the life lessons learned, and her incredible resilience in the face of adversity and hardship. Her energy and positivity are truly infectious - something many of us could do well to try and learn from. Suzanne’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the determination it takes to succeed against the odds in a strange country halfway around the world. She embodies resilience, determination, positivity and the power of personality, and is one of the most remarkable people I have interviewed. Chapters: 4:03 - Slam Dunc 7:34 - Suzanne Paul 45:16 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we delve into the world of consumer affairs with Consumer NZ's head honcho Jon Duffy. For decades Consumer NZ has been fighting for our consumer rights by shining spotlights on those who need to be shown up and holding those to account who try and pull a fast one on the unsuspecting public. In this enlightening conversation we address a wide array of consumer-focused topics including airlines, banks and of course supermarkets. Do we take our consumer rights as seriously in New Zealand as say Australia? Are we treated fairly by our largest corporates? Is New Zealand a good place to be a consumer?! Jon unravels the consumer issues that impact our daily lives and the economy in general. Chapters: 4:43 - Slam Dunc 7:51 - Jon Duffy 45:54 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Being a dad, a physio, and a former All Black, Josh Kronfeld has a lot to share when it comes to men's health and the strategies for a balanced life. This episode is an enlightening journey into the world of men's health, specifically focusing on the three Ps: Prostate, Pelvis, and Penis. Josh shares his experiences, offers unique insights, and breaks down the impact of stress on these critical areas. Our conversation isn't just confined to men's health. I couldn't help but talk a bit of rugger with a true All Black legend. What he had to say about the 1995 RWC final was eye-opening. So grab a cuppa, sit back, and join us for this engaging and touching episode that offers a fresh perspective on men's health, life, rugby, and more. Chapters: 3:07 - Slam Dunc 6:00 - Josh Kronfeld 45:30 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your Editor-in-Chief and Producer Dave-O put in a bit of Saturday afternoon overtime in order to get some quality one-on-one time with one of the busiest people in the country at the moment, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins. In what turned out to be one of the PM's last engagements before testing positive for COVID-19, Hipkins speaks refreshingly openly and honestly. Has he finally brought his A-game to the campaign? If so, is it too late? Any change of stance regarding Winston Peters? Or a Capital Gains Tax? Speaking of tax, how does he feel about the 'charity' corporates, like Sanitarium, tax situation? All is revealed right here right now.. Chapters: 5:20 - Slam Dunc 8:18 - Chris Hipkins 37:47 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For 'The Week That was' this week I'm joined by a Sir and a Dame - the equally delightful Bob Harvey and Denise L'Estrange-Corbet. And what a rollicking good time we had chatting about: The second political leaders debate, Winston, and Auckland Central. Covid vaccines. Side hustles and starting again late in life. And the All Blacks... Chapters: 3:16 - Slam Dunc 6:47 - The Week That Was 41:00 - Letters To The Editor 45:05 - Wanker Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She will be familiar to most Kiwi's as the smiling, car-loving Tina from Turners. Or perhaps from the last season of Taskmaster NZ, where amongst other things she got a tattoo of the other contestants on her arm. Her real name is Sieni Leo'o Olo, though her stage name (she is a comedian) is Bubbah, and she is an absolute delight to talk to. Refreshingly genuine, if not a bit... odd. She can also lift up the Editor in Chief as I discovered in one of my more unusual interviews yet... Chapters: 3:43 - Slam Dunc 6:17 - Bubbah 37:36 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode may well be DGEIC's most controversial one yet. I am joined by visiting British cardiologist and public health campaigner Dr. Aseem Malhotra. From advocate to critic, Dr. Malhotra shares his thoughts and experiences around the COVID vaccines. I won't say too much here but instead I'll leave you to listen to the conversation and form your own opinions. Chapters: 4:35 - Slam Dunc 7:35 - Dr Aseem Malhotra 37:45 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heather Morris is a bestselling author and an inspiring 70-year-old Kiwi grandmother from Te Awamutu who just happens to have sold 16 million copies of her books. In this episode Heather shares the incredible tale of her writing journey. She takes us behind the scenes, revealing how her first book 'The Tattooist of Auschwitz' was a beautiful accident that stemmed from a conversation with 87-year-old holocaust survivor, Lale Sokolov. The book has become phenomenally successful, and is currently being made into a mini series starring Harvey Keitel and Melanie Lynskey. Heather's success is a testament to her resilience and determination. But at the heart of it all she is a wonderfully down-to-earth grandmother from heartland New Zealand, who has shown us that you are never too old to change your life, and the lives of those around you. Chapters: 2:58 - Slam Dunc 7:57 - Heather Morris 36:36 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Picture a cleaner, greener New Zealand. What could be the hurdles and who takes the responsibility? Today on the People's Podcast I'm joined by Green Party co-leader James Shaw to look at New Zealand's political landscape, the Green Party's positioning, and the nation's emissions profile. It's a discussion loaded with hot topics - carbon emissions, electric cars, New Zealand's housing crisis, multi-generational poverty, immigration, capital gains tax, and the climate crisis at large. This is a thought-provoking episode, breaking down the economic climate's effect on everyday Kiwis and the political alliances shaping New Zealand's future. Chapters: 4:00 - Slam Dunc 6:41 - James Shaw 32:35 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this special 100th episode of the poddy I am joined by a couple of dear friends and broadcasting champions - Mark Richardson and Mel Homer. We kick around: The first political leaders debate. Mental Health Awareness Week. The current state of the New Zealand hospitality industry. And the current state of the New Zealand media industry. It's a bloody good listen if I do say so myself.. Chapters: 2:13 - Slam Dunc 8:27 - The Week That Was 43:33 - Letters To The Editor 46:45 - Wanker Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder what it takes to succeed in the restaurant industry? Join me for an exciting conversation with culinary world powerhouse couple, Josh and Helen Emett. The couple are just about to open their third restaurant and they lay bare the pressures they face, how they keep their motivation burning, and their perspective on the evolution of New Zealand's restaurant scene. We look at signature dishes (and onion rings), and delve into the difficulties around diversity in the industry, the challenges of opening another restaurant in the current climate, and how New Zealand's food scene stacks up globally. It's a rich banquet of insights, ideal for both food lovers and emerging restaurateurs. Tune in, and feed your curiosity! Chapters: 3:16 - Slam Dunc 4:50 - Josh and Helen Emett 31:19 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Front man for Th' Dudes, DJ, radio host, swingin' singer, Popstars manager - the Peter Urlich story is as long as it is impressive. He is also well-known as one of New Zealand's most prominent NZ Warriors supporters. What perhaps isn't so well-known is Urlich's involvement with the Warriors team chant that has become a crowd favourite at Mt Smart this year. PU, as is he is affectionately known, joined me for a most enjoyable chat about his life, his beloved Warriors, and that chant... Chapters: 2:35 - Slam Dunc 5:46 - Peter Urlich 30:02 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Mental Health Foundation's CEO Shaun Robinson joins me in this episode as we tackle the complex world of mental health & wellbeing. We attempt to unpack the stigma associated with mental health, and focus on the five steps to well-being - activity, noticing, connecting, giving, and learning. How can they assist in identifying and managing mental health issues, and what can we each do to promote not only our own mental health and well-being, but those around us? This week is Mental Health Awareness Week (https://mhaw.nz/). Whether or not you have struggled with mental health issues previously, this is a timely reminder that much like physical health, we need to try and keep our mental wellbeing in the best possible working order. Chapters: 3:29 - Slam Dunc 7:17 - Shaun Robinson 36:07 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The leader of The Opportunities Party, Raf Manji, joins me to discuss the future of New Zealand's economy and the pressing issues the country is currently facing, and of course The Opportunities Party. Is the New Zealand economy stagnating? How do we attract business and tech dollars into the country? Can we retain our young talent? Is the current MMP threshold too high? Should National seriously look at TOP as a coalition partner? And what is Winston still doing here? Raff Manji is a smart leader with a strong economics background. In an election where many voters still remain undecided, would you consider voting for TOP? If not, you may find this interview enlightening.. Chapters: 3:42 - Slam Dunc 6:35 - Raf Manji 41:50 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm joined by two dead-set legends on 'The Week That Was' this week. Health advocate, author and 2014 New Zealander of the Year Dr Lance O'Sullivan, and entertainer, singer, former NZ Idol judge, and Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the entertainment industry Jackie Clarke. And what a beauty it was too.. What do they make of the current state of politics in New Zealand? The retail crime epidemic. Visitor fees for places like Venice. Our sex lives. And the heartwarming story of the autistic boy who won a gold tournament after only ever playing three rounds in his life. But before ‘The Week That Was’ I talk to Todd Scott from the NBR. He found himself tackling a would-be thief at a supermarket only to then be told by the police to let him go.. Chapters: 2:42 - Slam Dunc 5:28 - Todd Scott 14:24 - The Week That Was 46:02 - Letters To The Editor 50:40 - Wanker Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we're tackling a global problem that costs the retail industry a whopping $150 billion in stolen goods - retail crime. We're stepping into the world of Phil Thomson, co-founder of New Zealand-based company Auror, whose pioneering work in technology and artificial intelligence is making significant headway in combatting this epidemic. Their innovative solutions have put an estimated equivalent of 500 extra police on the streets, recovering millions in stolen goods. Technology is at the forefront of crime prevention, and Auror's collaboration with police forces globally and their use of data-driven systems like license plate recognition is creating safer communities. Join me in this fascinating look into the world of retail crime, and celebrate the innovative Kiwi solutions that are making a real difference not just in New Zealand, but around the globe. Chapters: 5:46 - Slam Dunc 9:28 - Phil Thompson 44:20 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You, the people, have spoken. After being off the poddy for a number of months this episode sees the return of Mumsy; your Editor in Chief's flatmate, sparing partner, confidant, and, of course, mother. This time the stage is all hers as we promote her to 'Feature Interview' status. Enjoy... Chapters: 3:38 - Slam Dunc 6:32 - Mumsy 41:55 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the quiet whispers in the bedroom to the outright societal taboos, we're unpacking some of the trickiest topics surrounding sex and relationships in this episode. Sofie Louise is a sex and libido coach whose work revolves around creating satisfying sex lives for women. She lends us her expertise on everything from how men and women experience desire in starkly unique ways to the role porn plays in shaping our notions of sex and intimacy. This isn't just about the act of sex; it's about the profound transformations that can happen when we start to earnestly discuss and understand our sexual selves. Sofie shares her own journey of finding fulfillment, and how a moment in a storm in South America led to a sex coaching program in Wanaka, and how that in turn led to her coaching others. The ripple effect of change in our sex lives can positively touch every facet of our existence, whilst porn and its effects on relationships cannot be overlooked. So, tune in for an honest and enlightening discussion on topics often cloaked in societal taboos. If you would like to get in touch with Sofie you can find more info here: Website: www.sofielouise.com Instagram: @_sofielouise Chapters: 3:23 - Slam Dunc 6:21 - Sofie Louise 41:55 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ethan Gordon is a young man who found success in adversity. After losing his job, he turned his misfortune into an opportunity and launched a cleaning business that now oversees 30 franchises. Discover the hurdles he faced, the steps he took to overcome them, and the unique challenges of starting a successful business in New Zealand. We shed light on the integral aspects of running a successful small business. Also, we address concerns related to immigration, access to capital, and hiring staff, sharing practical tips for small business owners in New Zealand. This episode is a treasure trove of thought-provoking insights, heartfelt reflections, and unique entrepreneurial experiences. Great work Ethan! Chapters: 3:39 - Slam Dunc 8:45 - Ethan Gordon 37:23 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weeks guests on 'The Week That Was' are broadcaster and all around lovely lady Carly Flynn, and the equally lovely and very funny comedian Nick Rado. What did we discuss today I hear you ask? Well.. Political attack advertising. Sir Ashley Bloomfield's legacy. Robots in K Mart. Kaitaia's nightlife. Aaaaand the huge sporting weekend ahead for the AB's and The Wahs. Chapters: 3:08 - Slam Dunc 7:12 - The Week That Was 39:36 - Letters To The Editor 44:20 - Wanker Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kirsty Cardy is a globetrotter on a mission. She sold everything to explore the world in her camper van, unearthing valuable lessons on happiness, mental health, and community structures from various cultures. Could the culture of shared responsibility and support revolutionise mental health strategies in places like New Zealand? Kirsty's journey is inspiring, and helps us realise that the answers to our mental wellness questions may not cost billions and can be found in the heart of our families and communities. This episode is an invitation to rethink our approach to mental health, to value community, and to be open to lessons from other cultures around the world. Chapters: 5:16 - Slam Dunc 7:33 - Kirsty Cardy 31:33 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this compelling episode, I sit down for an intimate conversation with none other than the now 'Sir' Ashley Bloomfield, the man who spearheaded New Zealand's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We explore the highs, low's, regrets and triumphs that came with being at the coalface during one of the most challenging and dividing periods in New Zealand's history. Ashley is able to offer a unique perspective on the intricacies of leadership during a crisis and the influence it has on public trust and response. Through it all, Ashley's optimism and his focus on kindness and fairness shone through, and to me he remains a genuinely nice guy who loves his country and wants to do everything he can to make it the best it can be. Chapters: 3:47 - Slam Dunc 6:33 - Sir Ashley Bloomfield 49:06 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I go head-to-head with Sunny Kaushal, Chair of the Dairy and Business Owner’s Group, on the contentious issue of vaping. A concern growing in popularity among young people, we explore the implications of vaping on health, the inconsistencies of the government's approach, and the role of big tobacco companies in this complex debate. Sunny suggests vaping is not as harmful as perceived, saying that no primary hospital admissions in New Zealand have been related to vaping. I am not so sure.. What does the latest international data say about the safety of vaping, particularly amongst young people? Who should we believe and where do you stand on this murky and dividing topic.. Chapters: 3:28 - Slam Dunc 6:04 - Sunny Kaushal 42:26 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaneel Lal is a law student, model, influencer and the current Young New Zealander of the Year. They are also one of the country's most prominent campaigners for trans and queer rights. Their journey, from being subjected to conversion therapy in Fiji to becoming a celebrated figure in New Zealand's trans community, makes for a compelling narrative that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs within the trans community. Encounters with transphobia, the high suicide rates among young queer people, and the lack of adequate support resonate deeply, reinforcing the importance of empathy and understanding. I'll admit, I had some preconceptions about Shaneel before this interview. But they shattered them, and this ended up being one of the most enlightening conversations of my career. So, gear up for a thought-provoking journey into the world of a young activist, and the broader society that has had such a profound effect on their life. Chapters: 4:04 - Slam Dunc 8:19 - Shaneel Lal 48:27 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On 'The Week That Was' this week my guests are founder of The Spinoff Duncan Grieve and award winning journalist, broadcaster, executive media trainer, communications strategist and media consultant Mary Lambie. Today we kick around: The current state of the New Zealand media landscape. National's proposed tax cuts policy. The climate change crisis. And the amount of money our power providers earn Chapters: 4:51 - Slam Dunc 9:33 - The Week That Was 41:15 - Letters To The Editor 47:15 - Wanker Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I'm joined by Dr Steve Glassey from Animal Evac as we shine a light on pet rescue during disasters. Find out how you can contribute to the cause for better animal protection laws and why we need enforceable legislation to safeguard our furry friends in times of crises. We also take a look at the phenomenon of animal hoarding, discuss the need for limits on pet ownership, unpack the emotional toll of losing a pet and emphasize the importance of having emergency plans for our animal companions. Do we need to cohabitation evacuation centers, as they have introduced in the USA, to better protect both people and animals during disasters? This is a thought-provoking conversation that may just save your pets life one day. Chapters: 3:37 - Slam Dunc 7:10 - Dr Steve Glassey 37:26 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is special. I am joined by former Cabinet Minister and Deputy Leader of the National Party, Nikki Kaye, as she opens up about her battle with breast cancer, the significance of self-care and balance in life, the battle to save the planet and her thoughts on New Zealand's socio-political landscape. A survivor in every sense of the word, Nikki has been through more in her 43 years than most people go through in a lifetime. Her story is inspirational and I am so pleased to be able to sit down with her to talk about her high's, low's and hopes for the future. Chapters: 4:38 - Slam Dunc 15:22 - Nikki Kaye 55:05 - Letters To The Editor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices