Beyond Basic Training: Taylor’s Career in the Defence Force (Army and Air Force)
From school’s easy routine to the rigorous world of the Defence Force, Taylor Ede has been on a journey of challenge, growth, and unexpected opportunities. In this episode, Taylor shares how she went from weighing her next steps after graduation to enlisting in the Army, navigating extended basic training during COVID-19, and later transitioning into the Air Force.We talk about what it really takes to step into military life, from the physical and mental challenges of training to finding a career path in logistics, adapting to change, and carving out space as a young woman in a male-dominated environment. Taylor reflects on the resilience she’s built, the importance of female participation in the Forces, and the possibilities she sees for travel, leadership, and further study.Whether you’re a student curious about life beyond school, someone considering a career in the military, or simply interested in hearing a story of grit and adaptability, this conversation offers an honest look at the realities of service, the lessons it teaches, and the doors it can open.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 From School to the Forces06:03 Why Military Experience Mattered11:57 Inside Basic Training During COVID-1919:51 Discovering Logistics as a Career Path22:15 Transitioning from Army to Air Force29:46 Life on Base and Building Community38:25 Navigating Gender Dynamics46:24 Lessons in Resilience and Growth50:45 Future Aspirations and Opportunities
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Studying Abroad & Building a Creative Career with Holly Gascoigne (Creative Director)
From high school’s high-pressure halls to the vibrant world of creative education, Holly Gascoigne has been on a journey of passion, perseverance, and pushing her own boundaries. In this episode, Holly opens up about navigating academic expectations, making the leap to university, and embracing the opportunities—and challenges—of studying abroad.We talk about what it really takes to pursue a creative career, from finding your “why” to funding your studies, building industry connections, and getting invaluable hands-on experience. Holly shares what she’s learned from halls of residence chaos, a design course full of autonomy, a transformative stint in Madrid, and creating her own book The Queen and the Bee.Whether you’re a student, aspiring creative, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of the creative industries, this conversation is packed with insights on following your passion, managing the financial realities of education, and carving your own path in a competitive field.💡 Takeaways:Passion drives persistence (and career success).Creative education opens diverse doors.Studying abroad is a game-changer for personal and professional growth.Your network is your net worth in creative industries.Financial management is just as important as creative skills.Real-world experience beats theory alone.Growth happens when you push past your comfort zone.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 Navigating High School Pressures04:17 The Journey to Creative Education09:16 Transitioning to University Life11:49 Experiences in Halls of Residence17:54 Funding Education and Managing Finances20:33 Exploring the Creative Design Course29:30 Studying Abroad: The Madrid Experience37:06 Creating The Queen and the Bee Book43:09 Career Path and Future Aspirations
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From DJ Decks to the Big Screen with Matt Hicks (Film Maker)
From spinning tracks to spinning stories, Matt Hicks has always lived at the intersection of creativity and connection. In this episode, he takes us through his winding path in the entertainment industry - from a schoolboy with a passion for performance, to a DJ and event manager, to the filmmaker behind the feature film The Tavern.Matt opens up about the five-year journey of bringing The Tavern to life, the unique and community-driven marketing strategies that set it apart, and the challenges of making a film that truly resonates with audiences. We explore how collaboration, networking, and personal growth have shaped his creative process - and get a sneak peek into his aspirations for future projects, including heart-driven sports storytelling.If you love behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in creative perseverance, and the magic of bringing people together through art, this one’s for you.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🎧 How DJing & event management paved the way for filmmaking🍻 The five-year labour of love behind The Tavern📣 Creative grassroots marketing strategies that worked🤝 Why collaboration & community matter more than ever🏅 Matt’s vision for positive, uplifting sports storytelling
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Drumming | From the Classroom to Coachella with Felix Holton (Drummer)
In this episode, drummer Felix Holton takes us behind the kit and into the heart of his music career — from realizing his passion for the drums at age 9 to touring the world with acclaimed New Zealand artist BENEE, playing stages like the O2 Arena in London and Coachella in California.Felix opens up about the realities of the music industry, the vital role of education, and the delicate balancing act between a demanding tour schedule and personal life. We talk about the perseverance, passion, and community support that fueled his rise, the lessons learned from performing at major venues, and why drummers are often the glue that holds a band together. Whether you’re an aspiring musician or just curious about life on the road, Felix’s insights on risk-taking, networking, and self-belief will inspire you to keep chasing your next step.💡 Episode Takeaways:Plan A mentality. Believe in yourself and your passion for music.The drummer’s role is essential to a band’s success.Education can shape and elevate musical growth.Balancing life and music takes intention and discipline.Networking is key to opportunities in the industry.A healthy lifestyle is critical for touring musicians.🔗 Follow Felix on Instagram: @felixholton#music #drummer #career #musician #drums #podcast
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Public Service as a Calling with Megan Gray (Public Service)
In this episode, we sit down with Megan Gray to unpack her journey from the whirlwind of high school to carving out a meaningful career in public service. Megan opens up about the pressures of academic achievement, navigating personal identity, and the mental health challenges that shaped her along the way.She shares how relationships - both inside and outside the classroom - became a grounding force during turbulent times, and why embracing failure was pivotal for her personal growth. From university life to finding her place in government work, Megan’s story is rich with lessons on resilience, authenticity, and pacing yourself through life’s marathon.We also explore her love of travel, reflections on living in Tasmania, and her advice for future generations on building connections that truly matter.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The hidden pressures of high school and how to navigate themWhy building strong relationships is vital for personal and professional growthThe role of mental health in shaping identity and resilienceHow to embrace failure as a stepping stone to successInsights into public service and contributing to your communityThe power of authenticity in attracting the right opportunitiesLife lessons from travel and living abroad"Life is a marathon, not a sprint."
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