The Mountain Club Podcast

In this episode, host Clare Irons sits down with Benje Patterson - economist, strategist, storyteller, and local community leader - to unravel the fast-changing landscape of Queenstown and the surrounding region.Benje Patterson, who serves on the boards of both the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association and the Queenstown Trails Trust, shares his unique perspective on what it means to belong in Queenstown, the challenges of rapid growth, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines life in the mountains.Together, Clare and Benje Patterson dive into big questions: how can Queenstown plan for its explosive population growth? What does housing security really look like in a place where affordability is a constant concern? They explore the critical role of infrastructure, public transport innovation, and the impact of tourism and investment on shaping the region’s future.Join us for a conversation that moves from backcountry trail runs to boardroom decisions, weaving in stories of community resilience, the power of local organisations, and hopes for a prosperous, balanced future in the mountain playground. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just mountain-curious, this episode will leave you inspired by the energy and possibilities of life in Queenstown.

This episode is a deep dive into journeys - geographical, entrepreneurial, and personal wellbeing. Paddy sits down with Matt Chapman, a globetrotter turned Wanaka local, whose story stretches from a small town in Australia, through the bustling streets of Singapore, and finally, to the stunning landscapes of the Queenstown Lakes region. Matt shares his path from a highly scheduled, high-performing corporate life to finding balance and meaning in remote work, start-ups, and community building. We’ll hear how ultra marathons and business challenges led to the creation of ChapmanCG, and how that company’s growth and eventual exit paved the way for Matt's reinvention in New Zealand. This episode explores the importance of spontaneous adventure, nurturing wellbeing, and building connections - both professional and personal - in a place that inspires creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.From the thrill of founding global businesses to the serenity of planting thousands of trees and building a new collective for wellbeing, Matt's journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering community, and living life with intention. Get ready for a conversation about reinventing yourself, trusting in the unknown, and the magic of the mountains - right here in the heart of New Zealand.

In this heartfelt episode, Claire Turnbull, founder of Mission Nutrition and Feel Good the Find Wellness Programme, joins our host Clare Irons to talk about mental health, food, and the messy, beautiful reality of balance.Claire opens up about her personal journey - from burnout and eating disorders to helping others find true wellbeing. She shares how to end your fight with food, why sleep and morning light matter more than diets, and how to build a life that actually feels good inside and out.🎧 Honest, practical, and full of hope - this is wellbeing, without the wellness hype.

On this episode of the Mountain Club Podcast, we brought together New Zealand’s comedy legends for an honest, hilarious, and inspiring conversation. In our first live podcast we heard from Jeremy Corbett, Michèle A’Court, Emma Lange, and David Downs. We heard wild tales from their early days, how they built a career from scratch, and how comedy helped them through life’s toughest moments, including stories of overcoming cancer. With touching insights about resilience, the power of community, and plenty of laughs, this session is a masterclass in turning passion into purpose - and proof that laughter truly is the best medicine.

On this episode of the Mountain Club Podcast, Paddy sat down with Quentin, the visionary behind Snow Machine and Arrival, to talk all things Queenstown, entrepreneurship, and event innovation. Quentin shares how his love for travel and adventure transformed Queenstown’s shoulder seasons, boosting the local economy with world-class events. We dive into the power of collaboration, building community, and turning big ideas into reality. If you’re interested in the intersection of lifestyle, business, and creating experiences that matter, this conversation is packed with inspiration and insights.