From “class clown” to Officer of the NZ Order of Merit, Dai Henwood opens up about the real work behind making people laugh: curiosity, grit, and character. He traces the spark from Wellington College to Victoria University, the moment he realized he was a comedian, and the work ethic he learned watching his parents. We dive into people skills as a superpower, saying yes to scary opportunities, and the women who’ve backed him at every step.Dai also shares his candid philosophy while living with stage-four cancer—why he waited two years to go public, how to feel emotions rather than outrun them, and the mantra that keeps him grounded: “Optimism won’t cure me, but pessimism will kill me.”Above accolades and TV gigs, Dai’s proudest achievement is the person he’s become as a husband and father—proof that success is who you are, not what you have.It’s truly a gift to share this episode with Dai Henwood on The Guest Speaker.
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A Career in Surfboard Craftsmanship with Lou Aitken (Surfboard Shaper)
In this episode, we dive into the world of surfboard shaping with Lou Aitken — where creativity, craftsmanship, and a love for the ocean collide. Lou shares her journey of discovering a passion for board building, sparked by family influence and hands-on experiences in the surfboard factory.From touring workshops as a kid to building their very first shortboard, this story captures the excitement of turning curiosity into craft. What began as fascination soon became a lifelong pursuit — a blend of design, precision, and the deep satisfaction that comes from working with your hands.We explore the connection between surfing and shaping — how riding the waves fuels the creative process, and how every board built is a reflection of both art and adventure. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best careers start not from a plan, but from a spark.Whether you’re drawn to design, the trades, or just love hearing about people who create with passion, this episode will leave you inspired to turn what you love into what you do.
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The Art of Medical Imaging: Inside the World of Radiographers with Monique Brownlee
In this episode, we sit down with Monique Brownlee, a radiographer whose career offers a behind-the-scenes look at how medical imaging brings healthcare to life. Monique breaks down the difference between radiographers—the professionals who capture images—and radiologists, the doctors who interpret them. From high-tech imaging rooms to real-world patient care, she explains how teamwork, precision, and trust form the backbone of this essential medical field.Monique also sheds light on the humanity within the job, offering students and listeners an engaging peek into a role that blends science, technology, and compassion. Whether you’re curious about healthcare careers or just want to understand what really happens behind an X-ray, this episode reveals the art and impact of medical imaging.00:00 Introduction & Monique’s Path into Medical Imaging00:31 What Radiographers Really Do06:45 Working Alongside Radiologists12:20 The Role of Imaging in Patient Care17:00 Advice for Students Considering Healthcare Careers
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A Career in Care: Nursing Pathways and Possibilities with Mya Dunsmore (Nurse)
In this episode, we sit down with Mya Dunsmore, a dedicated nurse whose journey offers an inside look into one of the most essential — and often underappreciated — professions in the world. From her first steps into nursing school to the challenges of long shifts and the deep rewards of patient care, Mya shares what it really takes to thrive in healthcare.She talks about the social nature of nursing, the importance of hands-on training, and how resilience becomes second nature when facing difficult moments. Mya also reflects on the educational pathways that led her here, the endless career opportunities within nursing, and the personal lessons she’s learned along the way.Whether you’re a student considering healthcare, a current nursing trainee, or simply curious about what it means to devote your life to helping others, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that nursing is as much about heart as it is about skill.🩺 Key TakeawaysNursing is an essential and deeply human profession.Education and practical training form the backbone of a successful nursing career.Social connection and communication are at the heart of good care.Flexibility and resilience are key to managing shift work and emotional demands.The nursing field offers diverse global opportunities and specializations.Passion and purpose are what sustain nurses through challenges and change.🕰️ Chapters00:00 — Discovering a Passion for Nursing02:48 — Education, Training, and Early Inspiration05:56 — Choosing Nursing as a Career Path09:03 — Real-World Experience: Clinicals and First Impressions12:02 — Challenges and Rewards in Healthcare18:06 — Life on Shifts: Balance, Routine, and Resilience23:57 — The Future of Nursing and Career Growth29:49 — Advice for Aspiring Nurses36:03 — Final Reflections and Gratitude
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Building a Career in Speech & Language Therapy with Audiologist Rebecca Davies-Colley (Speech & Language Therapist | Audiologist)
In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Davies-Colley, a Speech-Language Therapist and Audiologist who bridges the worlds of communication and hearing health. From helping children find their voice to supporting adults through hearing loss, Rebecca shares how her work transforms lives through understanding, connection, and care.She takes us through her academic journey—from university lectures to hands-on clinical placements—and unpacks what it’s really like to work in speech therapy and audiology. Rebecca discusses the importance of communication at every stage of life, the growing demand for professionals in the field, and why protecting our hearing is something everyone should take seriously.Reflecting on career pivots, personal growth, and work-life balance in healthcare, she offers grounded advice for students exploring pathways in health sciences. Whether you’re curious about communication disorders, passionate about helping others, or figuring out your next step in education, this conversation provides thoughtful insights into building a meaningful and adaptable career.📝 Chapters00:00 Reconnecting & Reflecting on the Past02:47 Career Pathways in Speech & Language Therapy05:52 University Journey & Specialisation08:53 High School Decisions & Academic Choices11:48 Choosing Speech & Language Therapy14:49 Inside the SLT Programme Structure17:57 What Speech Therapists Actually Do20:56 Accessing Therapy Services in NZ24:05 Communication Styles & Challenges26:50 Transitioning into Audiology29:56 The Role of Audiologists in Healthcare32:54 Hearing Loss & Its Impact on Life35:49 The Importance of Ear Protection38:57 Career Earnings & Work-Life Balance41:47 Advice for Aspiring Speech & Hearing Professionals44:38 Final Thoughts & Reflections
Real voices. Real journeys. Ready to find yours.At The Guest Speaker, we share real stories from New Zealanders who’ve backed themselves, made bold choices, and carved out careers on their own terms. From creative paths to unexpected turns, each guest has found their lane—and is honest about how they got there.For teens exploring what’s next, and for whānua wanting to support them, these conversations are here to inspire, guide, and remind you: there’s no single way to build a life that fits.Start listening. Find your spark. Shape your own story.- Blair & Grace
New Zealand