Russel Norman: Why he'd rather fight for the planet than hope, neoliberalism, and the attack on democracy
Russel Norman left politics when he stepped down as Green Party co-leader ten years ago - but he still has plenty of skin in the game.
In this wide-ranging discussion covering democracy, neoliberalism, the political spectrum, climate change and billionaires, we explore the state of the world - and what Russel believes must happen if the planet is to survive.
The introverted kid from Brisbane, who now leads Greenpeace Aotearoa, never set out to be an activist - but at this critical moment, he’s urging more people to become agitators for change.
This is a fascinating conversation, no matter where you sit on the political spectrum.
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1:20:04
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1:20:04
Six60’s Chris Mac on the band’s future, the myth of balance, and why it’s time to ditch tall poppy syndrome
Six60 have been soundtracking Kiwi summers since ages ago - and they’ve got the accolades to prove it.
The lads have spent a staggering 586 weeks on the New Zealand Singles Chart and a massive 1,232 weeks on the Albums Chart.
In this episode, Chris Mac - the wildly talented, theatrical bassist - shares how five very different musicians (and personalities) have become one of the most successful bands in Aotearoa’s history.
There have been plenty of ups and downs along the way, but Chris believes the best is yet to come (cough new album cough).
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1:12:42
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1:12:42
Jo Kane - my mum, my inspiration, and the funniest woman I know
This week’s guest is a little bit special. Actually - she’s very special.
My mum swam the Cook Strait at 40, has completed multiple marathons and Ironman events, and now, as she nears 70, she’s preparing for yet another epic physical challenge. And she did it all while raising my brother and me.
In this episode, the lines blur a bit over who’s interviewing whom, as we chat about our endurance achievements, mental toughness, future goals, and just how damn proud we are of each other.
I hope you enjoy this as much as we did.
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1:29:47
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1:29:47
Shorty Street star Theo Dāvid on playing Romeo - the original 'F-Boy' - fatherhood, and the theatre of WWE
Theo Dāvid is currently deep in rehearsals for Auckland Theatre Company’s Romeo and Juliet - and even if you’re not a Shakespeare geek, he shares some beautiful insights into why this 400-year-old writer and his works are still so relevant today.
A proud Samoan who grew up in South Auckland, Theo now lives in Mission Bay (his mates give him plenty of stick for that) with his beautiful partner and their two young boys. But the place closest to his heart is Huntly - and he explains why with real warmth and eloquence.
Plus, Theo reveals the harmless little white lie he told to land his gig as an ambulance driver on our much-loved Shortland Street.
*Note: this episode contains some strong language.
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59:55
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59:55
Tanita Garnett beat cancer twice as a young girl - now she's chasing a Black Ferns jersey
Tanita Garnett is 22 years old and has already beaten cancer twice. She picked up a rugby ball at 14, and by 16, she’d made the Tasman Mako training squad.
Now recovering from a tough ACL injury, Tanita opens up about the physical and mental challenges of rehab - and what keeps her going.
She’s also a qualified joiner, choosing a trade to support herself while chasing her rugby dreams.
Tanita is a remarkable young woman. Her story - and the way she talks about her “why” - is nothing short of inspiring.
Welcome to Kiwi Yarns - those yarns you have where you sit down, put the kettle on, pour a whiskey or crack open a beer I honestly don‘t mind. Anyway! We‘re sitting down and we’re yarning to some great New Zealanders, their back stories, their front stories, even stories where they went sideways, we will go there. It’s a place where we celebrate the great people of this glorious nation.
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