Duncan Garner - Editor In Chief

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

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