Join Blair and Grace for a co-host catch-up as we reflect on our first batch of 13 Guests! We yarn about some behind-the-scenes updates, and unpack what’s resonating most with us from each guest. It's a candid review session full of stories, lessons, and a few sneak peeks. THANK YOU!!
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1:10:45
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1:10:45
Breaking the Mold: Creativity, Courage & Mental Health – with Alex Wilkinson
In this episode, we sit down with the deeply creative and candid Alex Wilkinson—ceramics artist, businesswoman, and bold thinker who’s followed a less conventional path.From exploring chemical engineering to pursuing business studies, Alex opens up about the winding journey that led her to a life of artistic expression through pottery. She shares her ongoing experience with mental health, how creativity has become a grounding force, and the reality of balancing ambition with wellbeing.We chat about: 🌀 Moving through uncertainty and study pivots 🎨 Building a business rooted in art and authenticity 🧠 Mental health, self-worth, and staying the courseAlex’s story is one of vulnerability, strength, and learning to trust yourself—even when the path doesn’t look like anyone else’s.Check out Alex's work!www.mysterycreekceramics.co.nzhttps://www.instagram.com/mysterycreekceramics/
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54:37
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54:37
Finding Your Path: Embracing Change and Passion – with Sophie Power
In this episode, we’re joined by Sophie Power—engagement coordinator at Canterbury Rugby, passionate people-person, and rising force in sport and event marketing.Sophie opens up about navigating high school through the uncertainty of COVID-19, switching study paths, and boldly carving a career in an industry she loves. From studying geography to working pitch-side, she shares what it means to back yourself, find your tribe, and lean into change.We talk about: ✨ Juggling work, study, and side passions 💡 Overcoming imposter syndrome 🌏 Why the Brisbane Olympics is on her horizonSophie’s story is a powerful reminder that the path doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours.
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50:33
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50:33
Nailing It: Building a Life You’re Proud Of – with Aidan McCoard
In this episode, we sit down with Aidan McCoard, a site foreman who got into the trades young and never looked back — building a career he genuinely loves from the ground up.Aidan shares how he followed his passion for the outdoors — from rugby, fishing and working with his hands to trying out multiple summer jobs to figure out what really fit. With a strong work ethic and a natural way with people, he’s found his place leading teams on site, solving problems, and building with pride.We talk about how he uses skills like maths in real, practical ways every day, the lessons he's learned from the job site, and the big goals he has for himself in business. If you’re someone who values hands-on learning, strong leadership, or just making things happen on your own terms, Aidan’s story is one that’ll definitely hit.
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39:34
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39:34
Finding Balance in a High-Pressure World – with Anna Smith
In this episode, we’re joined by Anna Smith, a medical student whose story is full of perspective, purpose, and quiet strength.Anna reflects on her high school journey and the often intense leap into medical school — sharing how family, faith, and small moments of joy helped her find balance along the way. She opens up about the pressure to succeed in a competitive academic space, and why learning to value growth over grades has been one of the most powerful lessons of all.From community service to self-reflection, this conversation is a reminder that success isn’t just about test scores — it’s about who you’re becoming as you go. If you’re thinking about medicine, navigating change, or just need a bit of hope and honesty, Anna’s story will land gently right where you need it.
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