Kiwi Yarns

Today’s guest is a man I feel like it’s fair to say we all know and love - Sir John Kirwan.JK had a remarkable rugby career as a World Cup winning All Black, played rugby league for the Auckland Warriors, has been a respected international coach, and of course is a major figure in Aotearoa as a mental health advocate. Being one of the first high profile New Zealanders, to talk about depression and mental health, JK plays a massive role in this space - he is remarkable to watch and learn from.He also has a wine company, is an amazing TV Presenter and Rugby commentator, and really bloody fantastic man.This podcast was EVERYTHING I needed to hear at the moment - so I best let him invoice me for one of the most valuable therapy sessions ever! Hope you get something from it too.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Auckland MMA fighter Carlos Ulberg - aka “The Black Jag”.Carlos is part of the hugely successful City Kickboxing team - and it's a gym that’s described as "an old warehouse on the edge of the city" but has garnered global attention for it’s impressive array of extremely ridiculously talented UFC fighters - like Israel Adesanya and Dan Hooker.He wants to be the best light heavyweight fighter in the world, and listening to him share his story of where he's come from and how he intends on doing it, is a fascinating insight into the mind of a professional athlete. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This podcast features a Kiwi entrepreneur with a colorful past including X Games success, nightclub ownership, and charity work. The host and guest share funny stories about hidden camera shows, discuss digital transformation with NFTs and Bitcoin, and explore the speaker's creative pursuits and love for technology. They also plan a lavish barbecue with Sato beef short ribs and dream of a luxurious hiking trip to Abel Tasman.

Today’s guest is our super talented New Zealand Sail GP team strategist - Liv Mackay.Liv is also in the New Zealand team for the first ever women’s America’s Cup in Barcelona this year - so a massive year ahead!Liv is a great role model not only for younger sailors, but she isn't afraid to speak about the lack of female representation in the sport too. She spends a lot of her downtime (which she has bugger all of!) at local yacht clubs inspiring others to get involved. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Married at First is coming back to New Zealand this year, so if you’re looking for love and would like to bare your soul on national television - this could be your year! And, today’s guest will be right in the thick of helping guide the couples in a show that blew up to one of the most popular Reality TV shows in the world.John Aiken has been sitting on the couch as the relationship expert across the ditch for Married at First Sight Australia since it began and he has absolutely seen it all.And look while he’s here lets take advantage and get some solid relationship advice along the way too! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is one of the country’s greatest and most loved rugby players.A true gentleman of the sport, Keven Mealamu played 132 tests for the All Blacks - just two players have played more. He won the Rugby World Cup twice and made more than 150 appearances for the Blues in Super Rugby. He is loved by those who played with him, those who played against him, and I think it's fair to say we all love him (well you definitely will after this!). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jackie Cheng, an actor, stuntman, and social media creator, discusses his journey of creating content online, finding income through social media and stunt work, overcoming challenges, and embracing personal growth. He also shares his love for music, experiences at festivals, and upcoming events in New Zealand. The conversation includes lighthearted topics like summer barbecues and dream destinations in New Zealand. The podcast ends with a discussion about a hidden gem, Lake Castelia, and updates on Jackie's upcoming series, Rushdower, a parody of NZ space.

Toni Street, a multi-talented TV presenter, sports commentator, and skilled cook, discusses her achievements and struggles. They explore coaching young athletes, dealing with criticism and trolling, finding time to rest, surrogacy journey, bringing positivity, favorite and least favorite interviews, and who would play them in a movie.

Ruby Tui, a talented and humble women's rugby player, discusses her career journey, growth of women's rugby sevens in New Zealand, importance of culture and sporting achievements, financial struggles in university, rugby analysis and being in front of the camera, summer barbecue plans, favorite Kiwi artists, and their thoughts on languages, travel, and rugby.

Abbas Nazari, a remarkable young man with an incredible story, shares his journey fleeing the Taliban, including being stuck on the Tampa. He discusses his book, emotions throughout the journey, embracing the Kiwi Dream, parents' sacrifices, valuable lessons, and current plans. Must-listen episode!