Ex-All Black Matthew Ridge and his quirky sidekick David Ring team up from the sunny South of France to push boundaries and tackle the tough stuff. Expect unfil...
In this episode of The Brink with hosts Ringo and Ridgey, we sit down with David Thomas, a public health professional and Amazon’s global leader in behavioural health programs. David takes us through his personal journey into public health and sheds light on the growing importance of addressing substance use disorders (SUDs) in today’s workplaces. He shares how Amazon is stepping up to support its global workforce and their families with innovative addiction treatment strategies rooted in harm reduction and clinically effective care. Throughout the conversation, David highlights the profound impact of stigma surrounding substance use, the necessity of community-driven support, and the unique opportunity large organisations like Amazon have to lead in this space. His global perspective reveals how access to healthcare varies dramatically across regions and why it’s essential to prioritise accessible, inclusive resources for all employees. Ringo and Ridgey dive deeper into how Amazon’s proactive approach not only supports individual recovery but also improves employee retention and overall well-being. David emphasises that community support is at the heart of lasting recovery, urging other organisations to rethink how they address addiction in the workplace. This conversation is both eye-opening and inspiring, challenging companies to take actionable steps toward fostering healthier, more supportive environments. Tune in to learn how behavioural health initiatives can transform workplaces, break down stigma, and create lasting change for employees and their families worldwide.
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#32 - Imposter Syndrome... who's kidding who? w/ Selena Clark
This week on The Brink with your favorite dynamic duo, Ringo and Ridgey, we dive headfirst into the swirling abyss of imposter syndrome—that nagging voice in your head that insists you’re a fraud, despite, you know, all the actual evidence that you’re crushing it. Clinical psychologist Selena Clark joins the lads to unpack why even high achievers often feel like they’re just winging it and how cultural and gender influences can crank that self-doubt dial up to eleven. Ridgey bravely admits he once felt like an imposter hosting this very podcast—Ringo assures him, he still does. Selena breaks down the different imposter syndrome archetypes (spoiler: perfectionists and know-it-alls, you’re on the list) while the boys share their own awkward tales of self-doubt. They discuss how social media, where everyone’s life looks like a highlight reel, fuels the “why am I not good enough?” fire, and how important it is to recognise the difference between actual inadequacy and that pesky inner critic lying through its teeth. But fear not, dear listeners—it’s not all doom and existential gloom! Selena shares practical strategies to kick imposter syndrome to the curb, like the 90-second rule to process emotions. From breathing exercises to celebrating your wins—no matter how small—this episode reminds us that acknowledging those self-doubts is the first step to banishing them. So tune in, laugh at the boy's expense, and remember: if you think you’re an imposter, you’re probably just doing something right.
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#31 - Dave "The Brown Buttabean" Letele
Ever wondered what rock bottom looks like? Well, Dave Letele—aka the Mighty Brown Butterbean—has been there, done that, and somehow managed to turn it all into one of the most inspiring comeback stories you’ll ever hear. In this episode of The Brink, Ringo and Ridgey sit down with the man himself to unpack a life that went from crime, gangs, and addiction to leading a community movement that’s changing lives. Dave doesn’t hold back—he talks about what it was like growing up surrounded by violence, hitting 210 kilos, and waking up one day realizing he had two choices: keep spiraling or do something about it. Spoiler alert—he chose the second one. Through sheer grit (and a fair bit of sweat), he turned his life around, using boxing as a vehicle for change. But it wasn’t just about dropping weight—it was about reshaping his entire mindset. Now, through BBM (Butterbean Motivation), Dave is on a mission to help others do the same, offering free health programs, community support, and straight-up hope to those who need it most. From the importance of asking for help (seriously, it’s a power move) to tackling poverty and crime at their roots, Dave gets real about what it takes to break the cycle. If you need a kick up the backside or just a solid dose of inspiration, this one’s for you. Tune in and find out why the good life isn’t just for a lucky few—it’s for anyone willing to fight for it. Support the movement: www.bbm.fit
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#30 -Zac Guildford: The Game, The Gamble, The Fall And The Redemption
Ridgey and Ringo dive into a powerful story of redemption with former All Black Zac Guildford. Once a rising star in rugby, Zac’s life took a dark turn as he battled addiction, personal loss, and the pressures of elite sport. His journey is not just about struggle—it’s about owning mistakes, confronting demons, and fighting to rebuild a life with meaning. Zac opens up about the devastating loss of his father and how it led him to destructive coping mechanisms like alcohol and gambling. He speaks candidly about the hidden nature of his addiction, the denial that fueled it, and the rock-bottom moment that forced him to face reality. But this is not a story of defeat—this is a story of taking responsibility, making amends, and proving to himself that change is possible. Now, Zac is committed to turning his past into something positive. Through his work with Broken Movement Trust, he’s using his experiences to help others navigate addiction and mental health challenges. He shares how giving back, self-awareness, and confronting imposter syndrome have helped him find purpose in recovery. This conversation is about more than just mistakes—it’s about second chances and the ongoing battle to become better. Redemption is not instant; it’s a journey. And Zac’s story proves that no matter how far you fall, there is always a way forward. Zac's charity: https://thebrokenmovement.org/
Your favorite sifty duo, Ringo & Ridgey dive headfirst into the mind-blowing world of Human Design with the brilliant (and probably way more enlightened) Hannah Crerar a Human Design specialist, which basically means she can tell you why you do weird things based on the exact moment you entered this chaotic planet. After receiving a reading each from Hannah, David and Matthew, in their usual fashion, ask all the important questions like, does knowing your Human Design mean you can finally blame your life choices on the stars? Hannah explains how this system blends ancient wisdom with modern science to give you a cosmic cheat sheet for navigating life. She breaks down energy types, why parents should stop forcing their kids to be mini versions of themselves and how understanding your aura can actually make you better at human-ing. The guys also explore emotional alignment, the secret language of Generators and Manifestors and why communication is basically the glue holding our lives together. Hannah drops some knowledge bombs about sensitivity being a superpower, spiritual growth hitting you like a truck and why living authentically might actually be the hack to life. So, if you've ever wanted to know why you're the way you are (without having to see a therapist), tune in, it's weird, it's deep, and it might just change your life. For your own reading with Hannah she can be found on: Instagram: @hannahcrerar AND hannahsoulpsychology.com
Ex-All Black Matthew Ridge and his quirky sidekick David Ring team up from the sunny South of France to push boundaries and tackle the tough stuff. Expect unfiltered opinions, humor, and chaos as they dissect norms, challenge stereotypes, and ask the awkward questions. Buckle up for a cheeky antidote to cancel culture and a wild ride through the madness of the modern world. Join the odd couple nobody knew they needed—it's a car crash you won't want to miss.
New Zealand