The Zeducation Podcast

In this episode of The Zeducation Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Darius Wright, a licensed psychologist and private practice owner based in Hawai'i. We explore mental strength for high performers — diving into identity, trauma, leadership pressure, and how leaders can build resilient teams without burning people out. Dr. Wright also shares insights on reducing mental health stigma, navigating misinformation, and understanding how culture shapes the way people experience and talk about mental wellbeing. If you're a leader, professional, or someone interested in performance, wellbeing, and personal growth — this conversation is for you. If you or someone you know is looking for professional support, you can learn more or reach out to Dr. Wright here: Mental Strength for High Performers: Lessons from a Clinical Psychologist - w/ Dr Darius Wrighthttps://www.drdariuswright.com/

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "98186d24-bde8-47a1-82ca-ba710b823e4d" data-testid= "conversation-turn-28" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of the Zeducation Podcast, we sit down with leadership coach and CEO of The Bridge, Kenny Bhosale, to unpack 5 habits that protect leadership energy. If you want to lead at a high level without sacrificing your health, this conversation is for you. We explore practical routines, mindset shifts, and daily behaviours that help leaders stay calm, clear, and consistent under pressure, whether at work and at home. Subscribe for more leadership conversations that help you win in your career and life.

In this episode of The Zeducation Podcast, we are joined by Neil Gaught FRSA — founder and CEO of Neil Gaught & Associates, an award-winning author, and the creator of the Single Organising Idea approach. We unpack what it really takes to build a purpose-driven organisation where purpose isn't just a slogan on the wall, but a leadership system that shapes decisions, culture, and results—especially when pressure is high. If you're a CEO, manager, or leader responsible for building culture and trust, this conversation will give you practical frameworks you can apply straight away. Subscribe for more leadership conversations that help you level up in your career and life. Feel free to reach out Neil Gaught for more information about him and his services. Neil's website: https://neilgaught.com/ Neil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-gaught-frsa-5583a4a/

Don't Leave Your Culture at the Door: Indigenous Leadership with Michael Moka In this episode, Michael Moka – founder of Indigenous Growth – shares how he went from a "Once Were Warriors"-type upbringing to Head Boy at Kelston Boys', uni graduate, corporate professional, and now business owner helping organisations honour culture through leadership. We talk about: How his story shaped the way he leads and serves 3 practical tips to fast-track your growth from manager to senior leadership What makes Indigenous Growth different from typical leadership programmes If you're a leader (or future leader) who wants to move up without leaving your culture at the door, this kōrero is for you.

In this episode of the Zeducation Podcast, we sit down with two powerhouse leaders working on the frontline of mental health and addictions for our people. 🎙 Dr Alexander Stevens II – senior Māori academic and kaupapa Māori researcher at AUT, and mental health, addictions & trauma clinician with StandingTallNZ.org 🎙 Pulotu Master Bruce Levi – Service Manager, Pacific Mental Health & Addictions, Integrated Care North, Health New Zealand | Counties Manukau. Together we talanoa about: What leadership really looks like inside a pressured health system The realities Māori and Pasifika whānau/aiga face in mental health and addictions How kaupapa Māori and Pacific frameworks shape the way they lead and serve The personal toll of this mahi – and how they protect their own wellbeing Honest career advice for Māori and Pasifika wanting to work in health If you care about leadership, equity, and the future of Māori & Pasifika wellbeing, this kōrero is for you. 👇🏽 Next steps If you found this valuable, please like, comment, and subscribe. Share this episode with someone working in health, education, or community leadership.

AI is replacing tasks and some jobs. But what about leadership? I sit down with Second Half's Tyrone Tangata-Makiri and Kamilla Witehira to unpack people-first AI, trust, and how leaders can turn tools into impact. Make sure to tune into this Zeducation podcast episode to learn more. The Zeducation podcast is dedicated to helping you with your leadership and career development!

We interview Johnnie Timu, founder of Brown Pride, a South Auckland movement serving our community with monthly markets for local entrepreneurs, kai and toy drives for families, support for the homeless, free haircuts and barber training, merch courses, youth programs, and open talanoa for mental health. In this episode we unpack the values behind Johnnie's mahi, the shift from victim mindset to owner mindset.

🎙️ On this Zeducation podcast episode, our guest is Nora Swann — a bold voice and changemaker in Aotearoa's fashion industry. She's the founder of Nora Swann Ltd, Fusion Fashion, and the Dressed in Confidence programme, and for over a decade, she's been helping people use fashion as a powerful tool for confidence, identity, and leadership. But Nora's message goes beyond the clothes we wear. It's about how we show up in every room — with purpose, pride, and presence. Whether she's curating runways or mentoring future leaders, Nora reminds us that fashion isn't just about style — it's strategy. 👗 In this episode, we explore: How fashion can influence confidence and leadership Why style and self-worth are deeply connected What it means to lead unapologetically through how you show up If you're into purpose-driven leadership, personal branding, or just want to show up more confidently in life and work — this episode is for you. 🧵 Let's unpack the fabrics of influence. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on leadership, personal growth, and purpose-driven living.

Dr. Priyanta Ravi, a neuropsychologist, CEO, and Chief Medical Officer leading the charge in transforming how we think about burnout, leadership, and mental wellness in the workplace. With decades of clinical insight and strategic experience across healthcare and business, she's helped organizations flip burnout into brilliance by applying neuroscience-backed strategies that actually stick. In this episode, we're diving deep into what burnout really does to your brain, why high performers are most at risk, and how leaders can build cultures that heal instead of harm. If you're tired of surface-level wellness tips and want real, actionable tools to protect your energy and lead with clarity, this conversation is your blueprint.

Mental health isn't just a personal issue — it's a leadership responsibility. In this Zeducation podcast episode, we're joined by Tayyaba Khan, CEO of South Auckland's Counselling Services Centre, an organization that's been on the frontlines of crisis support since 1986. With over 15 years of experience across refugee resettlement, human rights, and mental health—spanning the Red Cross in Australia and the UK to New Zealand's Ministry for Ethnic Communities—Tayyaba brings bold leadership to broken systems. We dig into what it really looks like for leaders to show up in a mental health crisis — not just for their teams, but for their communities. From building culturally safe spaces to leading with integrity and faith, Tayyaba shares practical insights for anyone who wants to lead with impact. If you're in a position of influence, this episode is a wake-up call: mental health is everyone's responsibility — especially yours.

What if struggling in school didn't mean struggling in life? In this episode, we sit down with Varun—once a C and D student packing boxes in a warehouse—now a respected sales strategist, business leader, and founder of Synergy Consulting. He shares how he helped scale a business to $250 million, the practical leadership skills school never taught, and how he's teaching his own children to solve problems through strategy and action. Varun also opens up about the challenges he faced as a leader, the lessons that helped him grow, and the mindset shifts that made the difference. If you're looking to lead with impact, grow in your career, and build a life that works—this conversation delivers real insight and real tools. Our guest Varun is also kind enough to share his free resource and details if you want to get in touch! FREE RESOURCE: https://www.synergyconsulting.co.nz/playbook CONTANT VARUN: https://www.synergyconsulting.co.nz/bio

Can you build a successful business or career without sacrificing your family? In this episode, Ray Everest—entrepreneur, tech founder, and father of four—shares the real, practical strategies he uses to lead with excellence at work and at home. From setting boundaries and building systems to managing guilt and redefining legacy, this conversation is your blueprint for aligned leadership. If you're chasing growth but don't want to lose what matters most, this episode is for you. Also avaliable on YouTube

In this episode, Pasitaua sits down with podcast expert Will Fleming to dive into the power of intuition and meaningful conversations—not just in leadership, but in everyday life and the workplace. Together, they explore how conversations were the original tools of leadership for our Māori and Pacific ancestors, and how those same principles still apply today. Will also opens up about living with dyslexia, and how it has shaped his ability to connect and communicate through spoken word—which has led him to host hundreds of impactful podcast conversations. Tune in as we unpack: Why listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills How to create space for real, authentic dialogue Why your voice might be your superpower 🎧 Available now on Spotify and YouTube #ZeducationPodcast #Leadership #Communication #Pasifika #Māori #Dyslexia #Podcasting #WorkplaceCulture

🎙️ How to Speak Like a Pro | With Ma'a Brian Sagala Master the mic. Own the room. Win every conversation! In this episode of The Zeducation Podcast, we sit down with the legendary Brian Sagala—a seasoned MC, facilitator, broadcaster, and creative—to unpack the real art of communication. With over 30 years of experience in public speaking, hosting, and radio, Brian shares what it really takes to become a confident communicator, host, and leader. We dive deep into: ✅ How to overcome fear and speak with presence ✅ Tips for networking and connecting with anyone ✅ What makes a great MC or event host ✅ Why communication is a make-or-break career skill ✅ Lessons from many years of hosting at Pacific Media Network ✅ How to bring humour, energy, and leadership into any room Whether you're leading meetings, presenting ideas, or emceeing major events—this episode will help you level up your confidence and impact. 🎧 Don't just talk. Communicate like a pro. Let's go!

In this episode of The Zeducation Podcast, we sit down with Richie Aholelei, founder and chairman of Kura Cares Charity, known by many as the Tongan David Goggins—and for good reason. Richie is the definition of relentless. From running 5Ks and 10Ks daily, to leading his team, reading every day, and driving impact through his charity—his life runs on discipline. We break down how Richie built his mindset, why motivation isn't enough, and how to create discipline that sticks, even when life gets messy. If you're chasing consistency, clarity, and long-term success—this one's for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Andre Timothy, a successful Pasifika professional making waves in the world of sales and relationship-building. We dive deep into the real skills that separate a good salesperson from a great one, including: ✅ How to build long-lasting relationships in business ✅ The role of reputation in career success ✅ Why connection beats the hard sell ✅ Practical sales and communication tips you can use today ✅ Andre's personal career journey and what he's learned along the way This episode is packed with insights for anyone in sales, leadership, entrepreneurship, or looking to grow their career with influence and integrity. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that help you grow personally and professionally. #SalesSkills #CareerGrowth #RelationshipBuilding #ZeducationPodcast #PasifikaSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipSkills

How do you build a career that actually makes a difference? In this episode of The Zeducation Podcast, we sit down with Labour MP and spokesperson, Shanan Halbert, to explore his journey from grassroots education leadership to national politics. Shanan opens up about growing up in Hawke's Bay, the influence of his Māori whakapapa, and the lessons he learned working with Māori and Pasifika communities. We dive into real, actionable insights on building a career with impact, navigating challenges, and staying grounded in purpose while climbing professionally. Whether you're in the early stages of your career or looking to lead meaningful change in your community or industry — this episode is packed with takeaways you can apply right now. 🎧 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that help you win both professionally and personally. #Leadership #ProfessionalGrowth #ZeducationPodcast #ShananHalbert #PurposeDrivenCareer #MāoriSuccess #PasifikaExcellence #NZPolitics #CareerDevelopment #PodcastNZ

In this episode of the Zeducation Podcast, we dive deep into how personal branding—especially on LinkedIn—can help you land a job, get promoted, or even build a thriving business. We're joined by Stanley Henry, founder of Marketing Agency, The Attention Seeker, who scaled his personal brand into a multi-million dollar business with a team of 30+ employees in just six years. He shares the exact strategies that helped him stand out, gain trust, and create opportunities—and how you can do the same. We discuss: ✅ What personal branding is and why it's essential ✅ How to leverage your personal brand for career success ✅ Proven strategies to stand out from the crowd ✅ Tips for creating content that builds credibility ✅ Common mistakes that sabotage your personal brand If you're looking to future-proof your career, attract the right opportunities, and position yourself as an industry leader, this episode is for you!