/on-air/real-life/rss 九一星空无限 Tune in 7:30pm to 8pm Sundays to Real Life; a weekly nationwide chat show featuring a different high-profile guest every week. John Cowan talks with them a Thu, 30 Jan 2025 23:15:40 Z en /on-air/real-life/audio/jack-tame/ /on-air/real-life/audio/jack-tame/ Jack Tame is a New Zealand television and radio journalist. He is the host of TVNZ’s political show Q+A and a presenter at 九一星空无限talk ZB. Tame grew up in Christchurch as the eldest of four siblings and attended St Martin's Primary School, Cashmere High School, and the New Zealand Broadcasting School at CPIT. Throughout his career, Tame has worked as TVNZ’s United States correspondent, co-hosted Breakfast, and written a column for Herald on Sunday. He currently hosts the Saturday morning show on 九一星空无限talk ZB and fills in as a presenter for Mike Hosking Breakfast. Tame is married to TVNZ reporter Mava Moayyed, is a stepfather to her son, and the couple is expecting their first child. Sun, 26 Jan 2025 07:01:39 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/pam-corkery/ /on-air/real-life/audio/pam-corkery/ Sun, 19 Jan 2025 07:00:52 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/dan-bidois-mp-for-northcote/ /on-air/real-life/audio/dan-bidois-mp-for-northcote/ Dan, born and raised in Auckland, left high school at 15 and completed a butchery apprenticeship. He earned a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) from the University of Auckland, and a Master of Public Policy in Economics from Harvard University on a Fulbright Scholarship. Elected to Parliament in 2018 and re-elected in 2023, Dan is the Chair of the Māori Affairs Select Committee and a member of the Economic Development Select Committee. Before Parliament, he worked as a management consultant, senior executive, and economist for the OECD and other organisations. Dan lives in Birkenhead with his wife Courtney, their dog Mylo, and family. Sun, 22 Dec 2024 07:16:55 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/moko-tepania-far-north-mayor/ /on-air/real-life/audio/moko-tepania-far-north-mayor/ Moko Tepania is a passionate leader dedicated to making a real difference in local government. With over a decade of experience in education, he understands the vital connection between teaching and governance. Motivated by a desire to influence change from within, Moko has embraced his role in local government to ensure that decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of the community.He believes that active community engagement is key to building a brighter future for all.A proud resident of the Far North, Moko is deeply connected to the region's cultural and historical significance. From Hokianga, where Kupe first arrived to Waitangi, where He Whakaputanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi were signed, the north holds special meaning for him. When not fulfilling his mayoral duties, Moko enjoys CrossFit, baking, and reading. Sun, 15 Dec 2024 07:10:09 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/shmubeel-eaqub/ /on-air/real-life/audio/shmubeel-eaqub/ Shamubeel Eaqub is the Chief Economist at Simplicity, with over two decades of experience in economics. He has held roles at leading institutions like ANZ Bank, Goldman Sachs, and NZIER. Shamubeel is known for making complex economic topics accessible and is a respected voice in media and business discussions. He holds a BCom with honours in Economics from Lincoln University and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Shamubeel is the author of Growing Apart: Regional Prosperity in New Zealand and co-author of Generation Rent and The New Zealand Economy: An Introduction. Based in Auckland with his wife and two sons, Shamubeel is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, dedicated to improving economic understanding and shaping a better future. Sun, 08 Dec 2024 07:07:02 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/tim-manson/ /on-air/real-life/audio/tim-manson/ Tim is the International Programmes Director at Tearfund New Zealand, overseeing the delivery of NZ$11 million in development and humanitarian support through local partners across the globe. Originally from New Zealand, Tim spent his childhood in Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa, before returning to New Zealand at 14. He holds a Masters in International Development with First Class Honours from Massey University. With six years of experience working in refugee response programming in Uganda, particularly in the mental health sector, Tim has also led humanitarian efforts in Iraq, Ukraine, and Ethiopia. His work has included managing large institutional donor partnerships, such as those with UNHCR, BPRM, ECW, and New Zealand’s MFAT. Tim is passionate about finding innovative and sustainable solutions to support marginalized communities. He is married to Helen, a humanitarian photojournalist, and they live in Auckland with their three young children, and one foster child. Sun, 01 Dec 2024 07:01:07 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/annabelle-white/ /on-air/real-life/audio/annabelle-white/ Annabelle White is a New Zealand food writer and author of eleven cookbooks, known for her approachable and fun approach to cooking. She was a long-time food columnist and also wrote the Food Detective column for the Sunday Star-Times. Annabelle served as the food editor for NZ House & Garden and joined New Zealand Woman's Weekly as Food Editor in 2011. In addition to her writing career, she runs cooking classes and regularly speaks at public events, sharing her passion for simple, delicious food that brings people together. Born and raised in New Zealand, Annabelle spent a year as an AFS Intercultural Programs scholar in Dover, Delaware at age 17. She later earned a Master’s degree with first-class honours from the University of Waikato in 1983 and received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2009. Annabelle's TV career began in 1989 when she joined TV3's Nightline as a food reporter. She went on to appear regularly on 5.30 With Jude and 5.00 With Jude before hosting her own prime-time shows, including World on a Plate, which featured segments filmed in New York City and Tonga. Annabelle continued to expand her TV presence with work on Breakfast TV, filming food and travel pieces in Shanghai, Santa Monica, and Ireland. She has also been a regular voice on New Zealand radio since 1990. Throughout her career, Annabelle has become known for her warm, engaging style and her belief in keeping food simple, confidence-building, and enjoyable. Sun, 24 Nov 2024 07:08:32 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/dr-vanda-symon-researcher-and-internationally-published-author/ /on-air/real-life/audio/dr-vanda-symon-researcher-and-internationally-published-author/ Vanda Symon is a New Zealand author known for her Detective Sam Shephard series, which includes five novels, starting with her debut, Overkill, published in 2007. The novel was written amidst the challenges of raising a young family and inspired by a sleep-deprived state that influenced its prologue. In addition to her series, she has also written a standalone psychological thriller titled The Faceless. Vanda has a diverse background in both writing and science, having completed a PhD at the University of Otago that examined the communication of science through crime fiction. Her academic credentials include an undergraduate degree in Pharmacy, and she has worked as a community and palliative care pharmacist. Currently, she is a research fellow focused on dementia in aged Pacific people at Va’a o Tautai - Centre for Pacific Health. She also serves as the National President of the New Zealand Society of Authors. Vanda has received various accolades throughout her career, including nominations for the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger award and the Ngaio Marsh Award for best crime novel. She also enjoyed hosting a monthly radio show, Write On, for eighteen years, where she interviewed writers and discussed literature. Outside of writing, she is actively involved in fencing as a competitor and a coach and is a founding member of the Dunedin Crime Writers Association. Sun, 17 Nov 2024 07:04:39 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/mark-vette-animal-trainer/ /on-air/real-life/audio/mark-vette-animal-trainer/ Mark Vette is an internationally renowned animal psychologist, zoologist, and founder of Dog Zen, an online dog training program. With over 40 years of experience, he has trained animals for iconic New Zealand commercials, Hollywood films like The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia, and TV series such as Purina Pound Pups to Dog Stars and Dogs Might Fly. Mark is famous for teaching dogs to drive and fly a small plane. A passionate advocate for rescue dogs, Mark has appeared in global campaigns promoting adoption. His training philosophy focuses on understanding dog behaviour to build loving, problem-free relationships between pets and their families. Through his decades of work, Mark has helped thousands of dogs and their owners, continuously learning from the animals he works with and deepening his bond with them. Sun, 10 Nov 2024 07:05:34 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/maiakawanakaulani-roos/ /on-air/real-life/audio/maiakawanakaulani-roos/ Maia Roos has rapidly ascended through the rugby ranks since debuting for the Auckland Storm in 2019. A talented athlete and leader, she served as Head Girl at Tamaki College and played two matches for the NZ Barbarians in 2020. Maia was also part of the inaugural Blues women’s team, further establishing her presence in the sport. Roos made her Test debut for the Black Ferns against England in Northampton in 2021. As a key member of the team, she contributed to their victory in the Rugby World Cup 2021, culminating in her nomination for World Rugby’s 15’s Breakthrough Player of the Year following a standout tournament. In 2023, Maia Roos made history by becoming the youngest captain of the Black Ferns at just 21 years old. She led the team against her country of birth, the USA, and guided them to victory in the 2023 Pacific Four Series. Her leadership qualities were further recognized when she was named co-captain of the Blues for the 2024 Super Rugby Aupiki season, alongside Ruahei Demant. Mon, 04 Nov 2024 03:18:44 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/jonathan-ogilvie/ /on-air/real-life/audio/jonathan-ogilvie/ Jonathan Ogilvie began his creative journey in the post-punk music scene of Christchurch, producing moody music videos for Flying Nun bands like The Jean-Paul Sartre Experience and Headless Chickens. His iconic 1987 video for Straitjacket Fits' "She Speeds," filmed on a truck in the Lyttelton tunnel, was made for just $250. After earning a Bachelor of Arts from Canterbury University, Ogilvie worked in special effects on Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket before graduating from the Australian Film, Television and Radio School in the early 1990s. Ogilvie's early career included directing music videos for Australian bands and commercials, along with award-nominated videos for Headless Chickens. In 2024, Ogilvie's fourth feature, Head South, premiered at the International Film Festival in Rotterdam. The film reflects his roots in the late 1970s Christchurch music scene. As a long-time directing teacher at the Australian Film, Television, and Radio School, he also contributes as a reader and assessor for the New South Wales Film and Television Office. Mon, 04 Nov 2024 03:02:30 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/campbell-hill-good-neighbour-trust-tauranga/ /on-air/real-life/audio/campbell-hill-good-neighbour-trust-tauranga/ Campbell Hill is the co-founder and Community Impact Manager of Good Neighbour, one of the Bay of Plenty's most prolific and impactful community organizations.With the help of over 300 dedicated volunteers, Good Neighbour addresses critical needs in the community through a variety of initiatives. Their food rescue program diverts 580 tonnes of food from landfills annually, delivering it to homes in need. They provide practical assistance, such as property maintenance, to individuals facing crises without a support network. They also rescue logs from the port, processing them into 500m³ of firewood each year for households in need. In addition, their community kitchen produced 26,000 meals last year to support those struggling with food insecurity.Good Neighbour goes beyond basic aid by offering social support that addresses the underlying issues families face, helping them build resilience, well-being, and a sense of purpose. The organization also runs youth life skills programs, supports individuals on their journey to employment, maintains community gardens, and gathers surplus backyard fruit—36,000kg last year alone—distributing it to those in need. Sun, 20 Oct 2024 07:05:04 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/ella-kumar-puket%C4%81papa-local-board-chair/ /on-air/real-life/audio/ella-kumar-puket%C4%81papa-local-board-chair/ Ella Kumar is the current chair of Auckland’s Puketāpapa Local Board, and in 2010 she was the first Kiwi-Indian woman elected to a local board in the country.  She's a qualified aerobics instructor, volunteer, marriage celebrant and is known for her passion for the community of Mt Roskill. Kumar was recently awarded the Hall of Fame Award at the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards 2024 for her remarkable journey that inspires many Indian New Zealanders. Sun, 13 Oct 2024 07:33:08 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/sam-smith-comedian-writer-and-reality-tv-star/ /on-air/real-life/audio/sam-smith-comedian-writer-and-reality-tv-star/ Sam Smith is a stand-up comedian, comedy writer, and musician from Auckland, NZ. He gained fame as the winner of season one of The Traitors New Zealand in 2023. Sam has appeared in popular Kiwi shows like 7 Days, Mean Mums, My Favourite Dead Person, and Shortland Street. In addition to his on-screen work, he is a sought-after warm-up comic for major comedy shows, including 7 Days, The Project, Dancing With The Stars, Family Feud, Jono and Ben, Have You Been Paying Attention?, and the Aotearoa Music Awards. Beyond warming up audiences, Sam is one of the country's most in-demand stand-up comics. When he’s not performing, he writes for 7 Days, Taskmaster NZ, and Taskmaster Australia. Before becoming a comedian, Sam was a dentist but transitioned to comedy after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. He embraces the challenges of his condition with humor and optimism, despite experiencing partial vision loss. Sam hosts a podcast for Blind Low Vision NZ and serves as an ambassador for MS Auckland. He is also a father of two and writes children's books. Sun, 06 Oct 2024 21:43:28 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/finn-butcher-olympic-kayak-cross-champion/ /on-air/real-life/audio/finn-butcher-olympic-kayak-cross-champion/ Finn Butcher is a talented New Zealand slalom canoeist who has been competing internationally since 2012. Growing up near the Kawarau River, Finn discovered his passion for paddling at the age of nine. Under the mentorship of Alan "Sarge" Hoffman, he developed his skills and later moved to Auckland, where he trained extensively at the Vector Wero Whitewater Park alongside fellow canoeist Callum Gilbert. In his competitive career, Finn has achieved significant milestones, including a fourth-place finish in the U23 K-1 at the 2018 World Junior and U23 Canoe Slalom Championships, narrowly missing out on a bronze medal. He also earned a silver medal in kayak cross at the 2021 World Championships in Bratislava, showcasing his potential on the world stage. Most notably, Finn became the inaugural Olympic champion in kayak cross at the 2024 Olympics, where he made a stunning upset by defeating three-time world champion Joe Clarke. Prior to this triumph, he served as a non-travelling reserve for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and earned quota places for New Zealand at the 2023 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships. Finn continues to be a rising star in the sport, dedicated to pushing his limits and inspiring future generations of paddlers. Sun, 29 Sep 2024 07:06:19 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/holly-arrowsmith-nz-musician/ /on-air/real-life/audio/holly-arrowsmith-nz-musician/ Born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and raised in the mountains of Southern New Zealand, Holly Arrowsmith is a multi-award-winning songwriter known for her poetic storytelling. With a focus on the deeply personal aspects of life, her lyrics resonate - exploring what it means to be human through prayer-like responses to our struggles. A leader in New Zealand’s contemporary Folk and Alt-Country movement, Holly's music blends tradition with innovation. Her dynamic vocals and nuanced lyrics create a stunning sonic portrait of life’s ups and downs, moving effortlessly from powerful to intimate. She has captivated audiences not only here but also in Australia and North America, sharing the stage with notable artists like Sixto Rodriguez, Tami Neilson, and Marlon Williams. Holly’s accolades include the APRA Country Song of the Year for "Slow Train Creek" (2020) and the Tui Award for Folk Album of the Year for her album For The Weary Traveller (2017). Most recently, she won the APRA Best Country Music Song for "Desert Dove" (2023). NPR praised her music as "utterly beautiful," highlighting her ability to draw listeners in and create a reflective experience through her songs. Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:03:05 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/david-walliams-author-and-comedian/ /on-air/real-life/audio/david-walliams-author-and-comedian/ David Walliams is a renowned English comedian, actor, and author, celebrated for his collaborations with Matt Lucas on BBC’s Little Britain and Come Fly With Me. His role as a judge on Britain's Got Talent from 2012 - 2022 earned him significant acclaim, including multiple National Television Awards for Best TV Judge. Walliams has also made a mark as a bestselling children’s author, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide. His popular works, such as Mr Stink and Gangsta Granny, have been adapted into television films. In addition to his entertainment career, Walliams is known for his impressive charity work. In 2006, he completed a challenging swim across the English Channel for Sport Relief, raising over £1 million. This monumental feat took him 10 hours and 34 minutes. David’s legacy spans entertainment, literature, and charity, cementing his status as a multifaceted and influential public figure. Sun, 15 Sep 2024 08:01:38 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/mah%C3%A9-drysdale-mayor-of-tauranga/ /on-air/real-life/audio/mah%C3%A9-drysdale-mayor-of-tauranga/ Mahé was raised in Tauranga and attended Tauranga Boys' College before moving to Auckland for his sixth form and university studies. He took up rowing at university and enjoyed a highly successful 20-year career in the sport. He is a two-time Olympic Champion in the single scull, winning gold in 2012 and 2016 and a five-time World Champion.In the 2008 Olympics, Mahé had the honour of being the Flag Bearer and Team Captain for New Zealand. He was named the Supreme Halberg Award Winner in 2006 and received the Sportsman of the Year award at the Halberg Awards in 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, and 2016. He was also inducted as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (M.N.Z.M) in 2009.After retiring from rowing, Mahé became a Financial Advisor at Forsyth Barr Limited. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in accounting and commercial law, a Graduate Diploma of Commerce in information technology, and is an ACA with Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CAANZ). Currently he is the Mayor of Tauranga.He is married to Juliette and has three children. Sun, 08 Sep 2024 08:02:08 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/bookworm-director-ant-timpson-tells-john-cowan-about-his-new-film-and-the-fear-that-informs-his-work/ /on-air/real-life/audio/bookworm-director-ant-timpson-tells-john-cowan-about-his-new-film-and-the-fear-that-informs-his-work/ Ant Timpson, born April 21, 1966, in Auckland, New Zealand, is a prominent film producer and director. In 2003, he founded the 48 Hours film contest, a significant platform for emerging filmmakers.His work has garnered notable awards, including the British Independent Film Awards Discovery Award and a Saturn Award for Best International Film, both in 2016.Timpson also launched "The Incredibly Strange Film Festival" in 1994, now part of the New Zealand International Film Festival. His distribution company, starting with "Slacker" in 1993, has released numerous specialist films. He owns the largest private collection of 35mm films in the Southern Hemisphere and is a board member of the New Zealand Film Commission. Timpson is married with two children. Sun, 01 Sep 2024 22:18:45 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/rev-dr-miguel-de-la-torre/ /on-air/real-life/audio/rev-dr-miguel-de-la-torre/ Rev Dr Miguel A. De La Torre is a Professor of Social Ethics and Latinx Studies at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He has held prominent roles, including President of the Society of Christian Ethics (2012) and Executive Officer for the Society of Race, Ethnicity and Religion (2012-2017). A distinguished Fulbright scholar and international lecturer, he is renowned for his advocacy of ethics of place, leading immersion classes in locations like Cuba, Guatemala, and the Mexico/U.S. border. His extensive speaking engagements include the Chautauqua Institute and the Parliament of World Religions. He has been honoured with several national book awards and is a frequent speaker on the intersection of religion with race, class, gender, and sexuality. In 2020, he received the Excellence in Teaching Award, and in 2021, the Martin E. Marty Public Understanding of Religion Award from the American Academy of Religion, making him the first scholar to receive both prestigious awards and the first Latinx to be honoured. Sun, 25 Aug 2024 08:12:28 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/dave-baxter-musician-avalanche-city/ /on-air/real-life/audio/dave-baxter-musician-avalanche-city/ Since debuting in 2011, the band Avalanche City, the project of Dave Baxter, has enchanted New Zealand with its light and energetic indie folk-pop tunes. Born in the UK and moving to New Zealand at six months old, Baxter grew up in Tauranga and Hamilton. Musically gifted from a young age, he began playing guitar at nine and performed in local bands during his teens. Avalanche City's first album, Our New Life Above the Ground, featured the hit single "Love Love Love," which soared to No. 1 on the New Zealand charts. The follow-up album, We Are for the Wild Places (2015), included the popular No. 1 single "Inside Out". After the 2019 release of My Babylon, Baxter took a break from music to focus on family and personal life. After a nearly five-year break, Dave Baxter returned in 2024 with a new single, "Keep That Love." His comeback marks a renewed chapter for Avalanche City, as Baxter resumes his musical journey with fresh energy and commitment. Sun, 18 Aug 2024 08:05:41 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/alan-duff-author/ /on-air/real-life/audio/alan-duff-author/ Alan Duff, a prominent New Zealand novelist and advocate, is best known for his influential debut novel Once Were Warriors (1990), which won the PEN Best First Book Award and was adapted into a successful film. In addition to his literary success, Duff is recognized for his role as a critical commentator on Māori issues. His 1993 analysis, Māori: The Crisis and the Challenge, critiques both traditional and radical Māori leadership for focusing on past injustices rather than promoting self-reliance. Duff’s influence extends through his newspaper columns, which began in 1991 when he wrote for The Evening Post. His thought-provoking pieces, later syndicated to multiple newspapers, have established him as a significant voice in New Zealand's media. Duff’s contributions to literature and social causes were honoured in 2007 when he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). His impact extends beyond writing, with his co-founding of the Duffy Books in Homes scheme in 1995, which has distributed over 5 million books to underprivileged children.  Sun, 11 Aug 2024 08:02:46 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/tony-rinaudo/ /on-air/real-life/audio/tony-rinaudo/ Meet Tony Rinaudo, also known as ‘The Forest Maker’! As World Vision’s Principal Climate Action Advisor, Tony has revolutionized reforestation with his groundbreaking approach, Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR).  In 1981, Tony and his wife Liz arrived at the edge of the Sahara, determined to plant trees. Despite numerous challenges, Tony discovered the power of FMNR—a method that regrows trees using existing root networks rather than starting from seeds. This innovative technique has restored millions of hectares of land in Niger and is now used in 25 countries across Africa and Asia.  Tony’s journey and the incredible impact of FMNR are detailed in his book, The Forest Underground: Hope for a Planet in Crisis. This inspiring story showcases how Tony’s sustainable land management system is transforming landscapes and lives, proving that hope and renewal are possible even in the most challenging environments.  Sun, 04 Aug 2024 08:02:33 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/fern-sutherland/ /on-air/real-life/audio/fern-sutherland/ Fern Sutherland, born in New Plymouth, began her acting career as a lead artist in short films produced by the UNITEC Performing Arts School. She gained early experience in theatre, appearing in productions such as Silo Theatre's Ensemble Project 08 and the Auckland Theatre Company's plays. Transitioning to television, Sutherland took on roles in South Pacific Pictures productions, including appearances in shows like Go Girls and The Almighty Johnsons. Sutherland's breakthrough came with her role in The Almighty Johnsons where her performance garnered critical acclaim and award nominations. Following this success, she secured a prominent role in the New Zealand television series The Brokenwood Mysteries, portraying a sharp and formal small-town detective. The show provided her with further exposure and established her as a notable figure in New Zealand television. Outside of acting, Fern Sutherland divides her time between New Zealand and Thailand. In Thailand, she spends extended periods practising Muay Thai in Phuket, reflecting her dedication to both her career and personal interests beyond acting. Sun, 28 Jul 2024 08:08:50 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/georgia-lines-kiwi-singersongwriter/ /on-air/real-life/audio/georgia-lines-kiwi-singersongwriter/ Georgia Lines has quickly risen to prominence in New Zealand's music scene with her infectious personality and R&B-infused pop sound. In 2022, she won Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the Aotearoa Music Awards and was nominated for Best Pop Artist alongside Lorde and Benee. Her EP "HUMAN" debuted at #1 on the Official Top 20 NZ Album charts, driven by the success of 'Faith', which topped NZ Airplay charts for four consecutive weeks and amassed over 7 million streams. In addition to her recording success, Georgia has performed multiple sold-out headline tours across New Zealand and supported international acts like George Ezra and Pentatonix. With features in Rolling Stone and Canvas Magazine, Georgia continues to garner both local and international acclaim, solidifying her position as a rising star in contemporary pop music. Georgia's ability to connect with audiences through her soulful vocals and compelling songwriting has contributed to her growing fanbase and widespread recognition in the music industry. Her achievements on the charts and in live performances underscore her trajectory towards becoming a significant figure not only in New Zealand but also on the global stage. Sun, 21 Jul 2024 08:24:05 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/real-life-kiwi-documentary-maker-rob-harley-on-journey-back-from-brink-of-death/ /on-air/real-life/audio/real-life-kiwi-documentary-maker-rob-harley-on-journey-back-from-brink-of-death/ Warning: This article discusses suicidal ideation. One of New Zealand’s most experienced journalists has opened up on his brush with death – and how a subsequent battle with depression has enabled him to become a “wounded healer” for those in need. Rob Harley, whose storied 50-year career has seen him work in current affairs for TVNZ, in radio, as a church pastor and a documentary maker, has earned a reputation as a talented storyteller. But in an interview with 九一星空无限talk ZB’s Real Life with John Cowan on Sunday night, now-70-year-old Harley recounted how he very nearly lost it all – his career, finances, mental health and life – after his liver failed eight and a half years ago. “I was wheeled into an operating theatre at Auckland City Hospital, where I was lucky enough to have one of the best liver transplant surgeons in the world work on me,” he told Real Life. “He pulled my old diseased liver out and gave me a new one. Afterwards he said, ‘Rob, you had two weeks to live, we got you just in time’.” While grateful to escape alive, after the liver transplant things “really cascaded downwards”, says Harley. “I had a very successful documentary-making business. It went well, but I’d had bad advice on tax and ended up with a horrendous tax bill, and then I had a documentary series which was incredibly successful on TV, but absolutely stripped me bare financially. “We went bankrupt. We walked away from a beautiful little farm in west Auckland, and we were basically gipsies for the next eight years.” Harley’s varied work over the years has seen him travel the world, and in 2001 he claimed an international journalism award for his story on TVNZ’s Assignment about a west Auckland firefighter turned arsonist. But he admits the reporting he’s done – much of it traumatic in nature, or from war zones – has taken a mental toll. “In Cambodia, we were at a water festival and we just got out in time before 400 people were trampled to death in a stampede,” he recalled. “The next morning, almost robot-like, we went into the grounds of a hospital and filmed the bodies of 50 to 60 dead teenagers with toe tags on, with people trying to identify them. “That stuff never came back and bit me on the bum until years later. In fact, it did at the end of last year, along with so much other stuff I've seen. It gets into your head and at some point the payment falls due.” Recent years have also brought bouts of severe depression, Harley revealed. He said it seems to be common among transplant patients. “Something happens to your head, and I lost it… I was in the black dog for about four years, I was incommunicado. I look back at my Facebook Messenger from 2017, 2018, and I had just shut down,” he said. But he pulled himself back through a combination of “good care, good drugs and good mates”. “I had a bloke who would call me every second day and say, ‘Zero to ten, how are you doing?’ He knew I was suicidal and sometimes I'd say ‘minus-15’. He said, ‘Okay, bro, let's get you up to two tomorrow’. “It saved my life. You've got to have good people around you.” That experience, of dealing with the worst of depression and emerging out the other side, has earned him a reputation as something of a de facto suicide counsellor. Harley says while some people think it sounds ghoulish and tough, he’s grateful for it. He says wounded people often make “the best healers”. “Every week I am next to people who are on the edge. People say, ‘Boy, that sounds ghoulish, that sounds tough’, but I love it because you actually teach people the art of something as simple as gratitude,” Harley said. “I was talking to someone the other day who doesn't want to live. I said, ‘Get in the shower in the morning and tell yourself three things that you are proud of yourself for having done’. And it's starting to work. Along with a bit of humour and a bit of distraction, I can see the light’s going on. “There’s nothing in the world like the experience of building something into the... Mon, 15 Jul 2024 03:21:21 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/kevin-denholm-film-director-film-chaplain/ /on-air/real-life/audio/kevin-denholm-film-director-film-chaplain/ Kevin has been a fixture in the Aotearoa New Zealand film industry for over thirty years. He directed the highly successful Air New Zealand Nothing to Hide Brand campaign. His other celebrated projects, which have become cultural icons in New Zealand, include the Mitre 10 “Sandpit,” Toyota “Everyday People,” and the National Depression Initiative, which featured rugby legend Sir John Kirwan. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kevin reached out to support the film community, and the floodgates opened. This led him to pursue studies in chaplaincy to acquire the skills necessary for offering a calm, compassionate, and empathetic presence to those in need. Kevin holds a master’s degree in Chaplaincy from the University of Otago and is currently pursuing a PhD. He has also been formally ordained by the Anglican Church of Aotearoa. With his deep commitment to listening and supporting others, Kevin is well-equipped to serve the film community. Kevin and his wife, Nikki, reside in Auckland and have three daughters and a son-in-law. Sun, 07 Jul 2024 08:20:02 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/mark-richardson-cricketer-broadcaster/ /on-air/real-life/audio/mark-richardson-cricketer-broadcaster/ Mark Richardson is a former professional cricket player who represented New Zealand in 38 test matches in the early 2000s. After his cricketing career Mark found his way into broadcasting via commentary for Sky Sport and co-hosted the popular show The Crowd Goes Wild on Prime. Mark's broadcasting career expanded beyond sports with roles on The Block NZ and The AM Show. Mark also spent a year hosting a talkback radio programme on the ill-fated Today FM. Lately Mark has reinvented his career once again as a Financial Adviser at Forsyth Barr Limited. Sun, 30 Jun 2024 08:38:45 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/sequoia-schmidt-author-adventurer-entrepreneur/ /on-air/real-life/audio/sequoia-schmidt-author-adventurer-entrepreneur/ Sequoia Schmidt is a celebrated author, adventurer, and speaker renowned for her compelling personal resilience and exploration narratives. Her debut book, "Journey of Heart: A Sojourn to K2," garnered acclaim as a finalist in the 2016 International Book Awards. This poignant memoir traces Sequoia's journey to K2 in Pakistan, a mountain that holds deep emotional significance as it tragically claimed the lives of both her father and brother.  In May 2018, Sequoia released her highly anticipated second book, "Changing Gears; Up's and Down's on the New Zealand Road." This book chronicles her 28-day solo cycling expedition across both the South and North Islands of New Zealand in 2017. Documenting her journey Sequoia Schmidt's work mirrors her adventurous spirit and diverse pursuits, from BASE jumping to Himalayan climbing. Sequoia passionately follows her adventurous spirit and articulately writes about her magnificent journeys. Sequoia's latest book "Dream of Flight" is due for release in August 2024. Sun, 23 Jun 2024 08:00:19 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/wayne-brown-mayor-of-auckland/ /on-air/real-life/audio/wayne-brown-mayor-of-auckland/ Wayne Brown is a seasoned leader with experience in business and public service, from steering large New Zealand businesses to serving as Mayor of New Zealand’s largest city. But beyond the boardroom and council chambers, Wayne is a keen surfer. He spends his spare time riding the swells and advocating for the protection of our marine environment, all while enjoying the company of his wife, Toni and their two children. Sun, 16 Jun 2024 08:17:23 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/20th-anniversary-of-real-life-with-john-cowan/ /on-air/real-life/audio/20th-anniversary-of-real-life-with-john-cowan/ Sunday the 9th of June marked a big milestone for John Cowan as he reached 20 years of hosting Real Life on 九一星空无限talk ZB! Over 963 shows, John has spoken to 835 different guests in an effort to find out what makes each one of them tick. Listen back to the celebration of John's 20 years on Real Life. Sun, 09 Jun 2024 08:16:14 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/ben-bell-mayor-of-gore/ /on-air/real-life/audio/ben-bell-mayor-of-gore/ Ben grew up in Otaki and went to Paraparaumu College. He is a self-taught computer coder and at the age of 12 those skills saw him inventing a GPS wristband that allowed hospitals and visitors to trace patients. This invention won him the youth category of Wellingtonian of the Year in 2016. After a gap year in Canada he launched his own company "Random42 Limited". The company dealt with water-monitoring technology and portable wind turbines. With many of his clients being down south, he made the move down there. In October 2022 Ben became Gore's youngest mayor at 23 years old. Sun, 02 Jun 2024 08:00:41 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/melanie-bracewell-comedian/ /on-air/real-life/audio/melanie-bracewell-comedian/ A popular contestant on Have You Been Paying Attention, comedian Melanie Bracewell has also appeared on The Project, Triple J, and Thank God You're Here. She was a contestant on the fourth series of Taskmaster NZ. Melanie has contributed as a writer to 7 Days, Have You Been Paying Attention, Wellington Paranormal, and Mean Mums. She is also an experienced radio announcer and has worked as a producer and announcer at the popular radio station Radio Hauraki for six years, where she also hosts her own weekend show. Melanie's first solo show, Brace Yourself, won Best Newcomer at the NZ Comedy Festival, and in 2018, she won the prestigious Billy T Award for her second solo show, Melodrama. In 2021, she had a sell-out season of The Rumours Are True at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, won the Director's Choice Award, and launched herself as the host of the Network 10 series The Cheap Seats. Melanie won Best Script: Comedy for her episode on Wellington Paranormal at the NZ Television Awards. In 2022, Melanie toured through Australia with her show, Ooh La La. She was also nominated for the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent. In 2023, The Cheap Seats won the Logie for Most Outstanding Entertainment Show. Sun, 26 May 2024 08:01:37 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/julie-chapman-kidscan-founder/ /on-air/real-life/audio/julie-chapman-kidscan-founder/ Sun, 19 May 2024 08:04:13 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/peter-beck-founder-and-ceo-of-rocket-lab/ /on-air/real-life/audio/peter-beck-founder-and-ceo-of-rocket-lab/ This week John's guest will be Peter Beck. Peter is a Kiwi entrepreneur who founded the aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider Rocket Lab.  Peter grew up in Invercargill, born into a family who loved machines. A toolmaking apprenticeship at Fisher & Paykel gave him hands-on engineering skills and access to top-of-the-line machinery and materials after hours. Peter began building rockets at an early age, steadily increasing their size and complexity. He set up Rocket Lab in 2006 and has taken the world by storm. An award-winning engineer, Peter has been presented with the Gold Medal from the Royal Aeronautical Society, the Meritorious Medal from the New Zealand Division of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the Cooper Medal and the Pickering Medal from the Royal Society of New Zealand. In addition, in recognition of Mr Beck’s outstanding contributions to aerospace, entrepreneurship and technical innovation he was appointed as an adjunct professor in aerospace engineering by the University of Auckland. Sun, 12 May 2024 08:06:22 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/marty-donoghue-ceo-of-the-rsa/ /on-air/real-life/audio/marty-donoghue-ceo-of-the-rsa/ Marty Donoghue, based in Wellington, has been Chief Executive of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association (RNZRSA) since October 2020. Marty has a 35-year track record of transformational leadership, successfully building and managing teams and mobilising volunteers in New Zealand and internationally across defence, sport, science, and the not-for-profit sector. Marty served in the New Zealand Army for 25 years and is a veteran of Bosnia, Angola, Bougainville and Iraq. Sun, 28 Apr 2024 08:08:50 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/judy-bailey-broadcaster-and-author/ /on-air/real-life/audio/judy-bailey-broadcaster-and-author/ Judy joined the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation in 1971, working as a reporter on news and current affairs programmes. She presented the regional news with John Hawkesby for Auckland from 1980 to 1987 in the programme Top Half. Judy went on to front ONE 九一星空无限, the highest-rated evening television news programme in New Zealand, for twenty-six years. On leaving TVNZ, she presented Māori Television's ANZAC Day programme for many years.   In the 2010 New Year Honours, Judy was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to broadcasting and the community. Judy has written several books, including Evolving, about finding health and happiness as we age, released at the beginning of April.   Judy lives in Auckland and is married to producer and director Chris Bailey, with whom she has three children and seven grandchildren. Sun, 21 Apr 2024 08:17:18 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/duncan-greive-founder-of-the-spinoff/ /on-air/real-life/audio/duncan-greive-founder-of-the-spinoff/ Sun, 14 Apr 2024 08:00:18 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/graeme-walls-former-director-of-mercy-ships-nz/ /on-air/real-life/audio/graeme-walls-former-director-of-mercy-ships-nz/ Graeme has recently retired as the New Zealand director of Mercy Ships, an international faith-based organisation that operates hospital ships that sail worldwide and deliver free healthcare to countries with little or no access to safe surgical care. Graeme began at Mercy Ships in 1983 initially taught the crew's children on board the ships, working his way up to executive leadership roles, going on to help others in 70 different countries worldwide. He sailed on board the ships for 25 years and continued working for the charity at their Penrose offices, where he helped fundraise, recruit volunteers and raise awareness for their work.Graeme met his wife Sharon aboard Mercy Ships when she worked in the hospitality side. Together they now reside in Onehunga with three children. Sun, 07 Apr 2024 08:03:44 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/ven-dr-lyndon-drake-archdeacon-of-tamaki-makaurau/ /on-air/real-life/audio/ven-dr-lyndon-drake-archdeacon-of-tamaki-makaurau/ Archdeacon of Tamaki Makaurau Until 2010, Dr Lyndon Drake was a Vice President at Barclays Capital, trading government bonds and interest-rate derivatives. Since then, he has served as pastor of Auckland Baptist Tabernacle, taught theology of work at seminaries, served in regional and international church leadership, and has served on a number of boards, including chairing Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Trust Board (a Māori social work agency) and Te Kaunihera (the governors of St John’s Theological College, the Anglican seminary in Auckland). He is the Archdeacon of Tāmaki Makaurau within the Māori Anglican bishopric of Te Tai Tokerau. Lyndon has degrees in science and commerce from the University of Auckland, a PhD in computer science from the University of York, and two degrees in theology from Oxford. Lyndon is of Ngai Tahu descent, from Kati Kuri in Kaikoura. He and his wife Miriam have three children and occasionally foster children. Sun, 31 Mar 2024 07:07:10 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/rachel-boyack-mp-for-nelson/ /on-air/real-life/audio/rachel-boyack-mp-for-nelson/ Nelson MP Rachel Boyack says she “nearly ended up in a cult” as a teenager, but escaped after just a few weeks after growing suspicious with the group’s “dodgy” behaviour. The Labour politician was briefly a member of the International Church of Christ, a religious sect known for its aggressive proselytising, while attending Auckland University in 1998. In an interview with 九一星空无限talk ZB’s Real Life with John Cowan on Sunday night, Boyack said the experience was “very strange”, but ultimately taught her about the importance of religious freedom.“I was approached by a woman on the street who invited me to go to her church, and I thought ‘This must be God speaking to me to go to this church’,” she recalls. Boyack was showered with friendship from fellow members over the ensuing weeks – a technique known as ‘love bombing’ – but soon realised “they were quite dodgy”. “They were absolutely acting like a cult. They had come from America and had an objective of trying to find young people at university and take their money,” she said. “They wanted me to leave my university hostel and move into one of their flats,” she says. “They wanted me to pay 10 percent of my income to them. They wanted me to stop talking to my parents and not go home for the holidays. And so I left.” Boyack ended up going to media about her experiences with the International Church of Christ shortly after leaving, as she felt compelled to warn others of the dangers. “I spoke out in the newspaper and to magazines and things because I really wanted to warn people… I thought, ‘this group has the power to remove people from their homes, from their families, take their money. People could be at risk.” Boyack, an Anglican, says it taught her the importance of respecting people to come to their own positions on their religious views. “I have a deep Christian faith, but not everyone does. People have other forms of faith, and I think it's important that we don't impose or try to force people to hold our views,” she told Cowan. “As a Christian, I want to share my faith with other people and for people to know why I hold the faith. But it really taught me the importance of not forcing people to hold opinions that they don't want to hold; not to try to exert control over people in terms of where they should be living, who they should be talking to. “That experience taught me a lot about how churches can really put people off.” Boyack says her instinct to speak out about injustice is something that’s always been part of her, and is ultimately what led her “down this political path”. “I've always felt brave enough to speak out about things that I seem to understand are wrong. And I've always felt comfortable doing it. “So it almost feels like an obligation to use that approach that I have on behalf of other people to speak out when things aren't right.” Sun, 24 Mar 2024 07:03:21 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/guy-montgomery/ /on-air/real-life/audio/guy-montgomery/ Comedian Guy Montgomery was born and raised in Christchurch and went on to study at Victoria University of Wellington. He moved to Canada in 2010 to start his comedy career. He then returned home (partly to co-host Late U) before moving to New York City. Together with Tim Blatt, Guy is co-host of the podcasts Worst Idea of All Time, Friendzone, and 'Til Death Do Us Blart. Guy won the Billy T Award in 2014 and the Fred Award at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival in 2023. He has written for several New Zealand comedy shows, such as Jono and Ben at 10, and has appeared on Comedy Central US. In 2021, he took part in Taskmaster NZ, and in 2022 was a contestant on New Zealand's Celebrity Treasure Island. He has also appeared frequently on shows such as 7 Days, Have You Been Paying Attention?, and Thank God You're Here. Last year, his television show Guy Montgomery's Guy Mont-Spelling Bee premiered. Guy will return to the live stage this year with his new show, Over 50,000,000 Guy Fans Can't Be Wrong. Sun, 17 Mar 2024 07:03:44 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/vince-cocurullo/ /on-air/real-life/audio/vince-cocurullo/ Italian-Kiwi Vince worked as a civil engineer from 1990 to 2000 before developing his IT company, Cocurullo’s Ltd, which still operates today. In 2005 Vince became very ill with what turned out to be mercury poisoning from amalgam fillings in his teeth. As a result of this, he experienced a very personal reality check that became the catalyst for his decision to enter local government and help make Whangārei District a better place to live and work. Vince has worked as a volunteer in projects across the globe, from helping out with life-saving water projects in Africa to teaching English in Yemen, and today, he is still involved in various organisations, community groups, business networking groups and councils, all with the vision of growing Whangārei. He was elected Mayor of Whangārei in October 2022, where he lives with his wife Lee. Sun, 10 Mar 2024 07:06:33 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/tommy-emmanuel/ /on-air/real-life/audio/tommy-emmanuel/ Tommy was born in New South Wales, Australia. He received his first guitar in 1959 (at age four) and was taught by his mother to accompany her, playing lap steel guitar. By age six, he was a working professional musician after his father created a family band, sold their home, and took his family on the road. Tommy would go on tour with country music star Buddy Williams and record several albums with Buddy Williams in the early 1970s. In his teen years, Tommy won a string of talent contests, and by the late 1970s, he was playing drums with his brother in the group Goldrush. He gained further prominence in the late 1970s as the lead guitarist in the Southern Star Band and joined the lineup of the leading rock group Dragon. Tommy performed live in Sydney at the closing ceremony of the Summer Olympics in 2000, and in June 2010, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. In 2019, MusicRadar listed him as the best acoustic guitarist in the world. Sun, 03 Mar 2024 07:15:01 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/dr-gary-chapman/ /on-air/real-life/audio/dr-gary-chapman/ Gary Chapman, born in a small town in North Carolina, USA, has become widely known for his work in the realm of relationships, particularly in marriage and family counselling. He has written more than forty books with The 5 Love Languages, one of his most popular titles, topping various bestseller charts for years. He also hosts radio programmes A Love Language Minute and Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman. Chapman's journey into Christian ministry began at the age of seventeen when he committed himself to serving Christ. He attended counselling courses, realising only later how significant they would become; the past thirty have seen a focus for Gary on marriage and family counselling. Gary holds Bachelors and Masters degrees in anthropology and received his PhD from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Gary and his wife, Karolyn, have been married for over 60 years and reside in Salem, North Carolina, where she edits all his books. They have two grown-up children. Sun, 25 Feb 2024 07:02:12 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/scott-silven/ /on-air/real-life/audio/scott-silven/ As a child, acclaimed illusionist and mentalist Scott revelled in mystery. Born and raised in Glasgow, he found a mentor in the owner of a magic shop in Glasgow. As a teenager, he took a hypnosis course in Milan and went on to study drama and performance at the University of Edinburgh.Scott is making his New Zealand debut in March 2024 at the Auckland Arts Festival with his show ‘Wonders’ playing at SkyCity Theatre. Sun, 18 Feb 2024 07:03:13 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/peter-harris/ /on-air/real-life/audio/peter-harris/ After working as an English teacher and then as an Anglican clergyman near Liverpool, UK, Peter and his wife Miranda moved to Portugal in 1983 to establish and run A Rocha, a global family of conservation organisations working together to live out God’s calling to care for creation ​and equip others to do likewise, and the first field study centre and bird observatory were established. In 1995, they moved to France, where they oversaw the establishment of two other centres while travelling to resource the growing movement of Christians active in nature conservation. Peter and Miranda returned to the UK in 2010.   The A Rocha story is told in Peter’s first two books: Under the Bright Wings and Kingfisher’s Fire. His 2017 book, Keeping Faith in Fundraising, raises questions about the nature of philanthropy and fundraising in contemporary culture.   In 2019, Peter, Miranda, and two colleagues were involved in a road accident while on a work trip in South Africa. Only Peter and the driver survived. He has spoken about life since in a short film. At the end of May 2020, Peter retired and continues to serve A Rocha in a voluntary capacity. Throughout February, Peter is speaking across New Zealand. Sun, 11 Feb 2024 07:06:55 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/dave-brebner/ /on-air/real-life/audio/dave-brebner/ Dave Brebner grew up with undiagnosed and debilitating Tourette Syndrome. Despite the hardships of his teenage years, as a person who was not going to fit the mould of a standard high school education without difficulty, he has gone on to complete an electrical trade qualification, a Bachelor's Degree of Education in Adult Vocational and Workplace Training, and two Master's Degrees in Educational Neuroscience and Education and Career Development, enabling him to engage in meaningful and inclusive discussions that cater to diverse audiences. As well as being a full-time teacher for TAFE NSW, he regularly presents motivational talks to groups of young people. Dave lives in New South Wales, Australia, and is a husband and father of six. Sun, 04 Feb 2024 07:31:13 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/karyn-hay/ /on-air/real-life/audio/karyn-hay/ Karyn Hay is an award-winning author and broadcaster. She grew up in the Thames Valley dairy factory town of Waitoa, near Te Aroha. She began her working life as a Radio New Zealand cadet and has been an award-winning copywriter, a radio announcer both here and abroad, a television front person, a newspaper columnist, a producer and director, and general manager of radio station Kiwi FM.Karyn’s award-winning debut novel Emerald Budgies was released in 2000 while she was living aboard a boat in England. The March of The Foxgloves was published in 2016 and was a bestseller on the New Zealand Fiction list, and her latest novel Winged Helmet, White Horse was published in 2018 to critical acclaim.In the 2020 New Year Honours, Karyn was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to broadcasting and the music industry. She was awarded a Taite Music Prize, the Independent Spirit Award, in 2022 for her TV and radio work since the 1980s. Tue, 30 Jan 2024 01:53:52 Z /on-air/real-life/audio/ella-harris/ /on-air/real-life/audio/ella-harris/ Ella Harris is a 25-year-old New Zealand professional cyclist, currently riding for UCI Women's Continental Team Lifeplus Wahoo. She won the Zwift global stationary trainer competition in 2018, which earned her a contract with Women's World Tour's Canyon SRAM team. At home, she won the national under-23 time trial in 2020 and has earned a number of heralded performances internationally.Ella started cycling at 10 years old with her parents on the weekends and began cycle racing at 13 when she joined the cycling club at St Margaret’s College in Christchurch. She gained her Bachelor of Agricommerce majoring in Food Marketing and Retailing from Massey University. During the cycling season, Ella resides in Girona, Spain. Sun, 21 Jan 2024 21:59:50 Z