Authentic Leadership Podcast

In this deep conversation, Ivan and Dan unpack the hidden cost of mental health misdiagnosis and why our healthcare systems often treat people as isolated individuals instead of whole humans held in relationships. Dan shares what it feels like when a diagnosis changes but the symptoms stay the same, and how that moment can shatter identity, create isolation, and force someone to “start from scratc...

In this episode, Ivan sits down with Scottie to uncover remarkable stories from her sporting journey — from representing New Zealand internationally to moments of real danger off the field. Scottie recounts a tense incident in Hong Kong where celebrations turned chaotic, including being escorted for safety after a win and having stones thrown at the team bus. The conversation also dives into the e...

In this deeply moving episode, Ivan sits down with Dan Goodwin, a theatre practitioner and lived experience advocate, to explore how art, anxiety, and identity shape the human journey. From being misdiagnosed with schizophrenia at 21 to transforming pain into purpose, Dan shares how storytelling became his path to healing and leadership. Together, they reflect on vulnerability, sensitivity, and th...

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, James opens up about his journey from surviving childhood abuse, addiction, and mental health struggles to discovering purpose, healing, and hope. Together, we explore the realities many men face but rarely speak about—shame, silence, anger, anxiety, and the long road toward recovery. James shares how peer support, lived experience, community, and o...

This episode traces an extraordinary journey through women’s football history, personal resilience and the quiet power of community. Scottie shares how a casual kick-around in Germany led her toward a national career in an era when women’s football barely had a place to stand. She talks about discovering the New Zealand team in the seventies, fundraising for international tournaments, training in...

In this heartfelt episode of the Authentic Leadership Podcast, Ivan sits down with Aidan — a young thinker whose honesty and depth reveal what it truly means to grow up between cultures. Adopted from China and raised in New Zealand, Aidan shares his journey of identity, confusion, and self-discovery. Together, Ivan and Aidan explore what it’s like to live between worlds — East and West, expectatio...

After more than 1,300 shows, Sheldon Brown reflects on the extraordinary journey behind Take It From Us — New Zealand’s longest-running mental health radio show. In this heartfelt conversation, Sheldon shares how he turned lived experience into purpose, using radio as a bridge for voices once silenced. From his early years caring for his mother, to decades spent amplifying others’ stories, Sheldon...

In this deeply honest and moving conversation, Shaun Robinson, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand, joins Ivan to talk about life, leadership, and what it truly means to live with authenticity. Shaun opens up about his journey — from growing up as a minister’s son to finding purpose through service, from confronting depression and bipolar disorder to leading one of the c...

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the power of storytelling as a pathway through grief, loss, and healing. Our guests share deeply personal reflections on how podcasts and peer support can create connection and hope in the aftermath of suicide. Together, we discuss the importance of community, compassion, and cultural understanding in the way we hold space for grief. The conversation also touc...

This conversation unpacks cultural norms and social expectations across Asia and New Zealand, exploring how they shape class, identity, and communication. It examines the influence of language and intent, the rise of social media in reshaping relationships, and the loneliness faced by young men. Through storytelling and creativity, the discussion highlights the power of community, the importance o...

My friend Abhishek and I started this channel in early 2025, and this piece was first published in March. I’m sharing it here again and hope you all enjoy it. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of sexual orientation, personal identity, and societal perceptions surrounding being gay. They share personal experiences, discuss misconceptions, and explore the challe...

In this episode of the Authentic Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Dave Burnside — a lived experience leader whose story spans addiction, incarceration, and recovery, to becoming a national voice for peer support and prison reform. Dave shares how one pivotal moment in a prison cell sparked a journey of transformation, leading him to champion lived experience in education, policy, and leadership...

What happens when you step outside your comfort zone and say yes to the unknown? 🌍 In this inspiring conversation, Sarah Hammouda shares her journey from New Zealand to Canada on a working holiday visa — a leap that turned into two years of adventure, resilience, and leadership lessons. From tiny staff housing and freezing winters to skiing to work and finding lifelong friends, Sarah discovered t...

From international student to NZ Police bridge-builder—Raymond Wong on trust, empathy, and community. Disclaimer: Raymond Wong is no longer employed by the New Zealand Police. The views and reflections he shares in this interview are offered in a personal capacity and do not represent the views of New Zealand Police. Raymond Wong reflects on his journey from arriving in Aotearoa as a Malaysian tee...

Exploring the 1.5 generation’s journey through migration, cultural identity, mental health, neurodivergence, and the impact of social media. This conversation examines the lived experiences of the 1.5 generation, particularly in relation to migration, cultural identity, and mental health in New Zealand. It highlights the challenges of navigating intergenerational expectations, language barriers, a...

The Boy Who Wanted to Be Cinderella is a heartwarming and magical ten-part story about Ivo, a gentle young man growing up in a world where love is defined only one way. While tradition expects him to dream of a princess, Ivo longs instead for a prince of his own. Across ten chapters, this modern fairytale follows Ivo’s journey through loneliness, self-doubt, and heartbreak as he searches for love...

Summary The conversation explores the transformative power of NGOs, emphasizing collective efforts in leadership and the importance of lived experience. It highlights the significance of authenticity in leadership, community-centric approaches, and the role of peer support in mental health services. The discussion also delves into social justice activism, personal growth, and the necessity of buil...

Summary In this conversation, the Jordyn Elyse shares their profound journey of self-discovery, navigating identity, motherhood, and mental health challenges. They reflect on their experiences with anxiety, the impact of cultural connections, and the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in personal growth. The discussion also delves into the complexities of grief and loss, emphasizing the...

Summary In this conversation, Kevin Harper and the host delve into the concept of authentic leadership, exploring its essence, the challenges faced, and the importance of emotional availability and relationships in leadership. They discuss the journey of leadership, the need for supportive environments, and the complexities of systems in mental health. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of h...

Summary In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of leadership, cultural identity, and community engagement. They discuss the importance of understanding one's purpose, the challenges faced in navigating systems, and the need for genuine communication. The dialogue emphasizes resilience, the significance of funding and resources, and the value of building relationships within...

Summary This conversation explores the themes of authenticity in leadership, cultural challenges faced by Asian women, the importance of communication, and the role of empathy and support in community building. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on navigating these complexities while emphasizing the significance of collaboration and generosity in leadership roles. Chapters 00:00...

summary The conversation explores the journey of cultural exchange between Maori and Taiwanese indigenous communities, highlighting the importance of community engagement, the challenges of organizing cultural projects, and the profound impact these experiences have on youth empowerment and identity formation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Community Engagement and Cultural Exchange 05:29 Building...

summary The conversation explores the challenges faced by Chinese families in the community, particularly regarding mental health, support systems, and parenting. The speakers discuss the importance of empathy, authentic leadership, and the need for open communication within the community. They also reflect on their experiences raising confident children and encouraging individuality, highlighting...

summary In this engaging conversation, Eva shares her journey from Taiwan to New Zealand, highlighting her experiences as an international student, her contributions to the community, and the challenges she faced along the way. The discussion delves into her family dynamics, cultural background, and the empowerment she found in advocating for herself and others. Eva's story is one of resilience, g...

In this conversation, Gary Sutcliffe shares his journey through life, emphasising the importance of authenticity, mental health advocacy, and the impact of personal experiences on his career. He discusses his family background, his struggles with depression, and how these experiences led him to work in the mental health sector. Gary highlights the significance of peer support and the evolution of...