Stand Up Again

Mike Minogue’s career appears to be a steady ascent — from What We Do in the Shadows to Wellington Paranormal and national radio success. But behind the perceived highs were terrifying improv auditions, self-doubt, and years of chasing opportunities that could disappear overnight. In this episode, Mike reveals the devastating moment he was fired from a long-awaited project only five days before fi...

Karen McMillan is a 25-book international bestselling author — but behind her success is a story of profound loss and resilience. After caring for both parents through cancer and navigating clinical depression, Karen later faced her own diagnosis and the shock of redundancy. In this episode, she reflects on grief, faith, survival, and the leap into full-time writing that reshaped her future. This...

Hayley Holt’s career spans elite ballroom dancing, competitive snowboarding, and becoming one of New Zealand’s most recognisable TV presenters. But behind the highlights is a story of resilience shaped by sacrifice, public failure, and profound personal loss. In this episode, Hayley opens up about the realities of starting over, from stepping away from high-performance careers to navigating grief...

Joe Daymond is one of New Zealand’s most recognisable young comedians. From becoming the youngest comedian to sell out SkyCity to building a massive online following and starring in a Comedy Central sitcom, his rise has been fast and undeniable. But Joe’s path began far from the spotlight. Raised in a working-class community where nothing was handed to you, he learned early to fight for opportunit...

Pax Assadi’s career appears steady and successful — television roles, sold-out shows, and a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most versatile performers. But behind the momentum was doubt. After early success stalled and family responsibility grew, Pax stepped away from comedy to retrain for a new career, choosing stability over uncertainty. In this episode, Pax reflects on the tension between res...

Jess Stewart had everything that looked like success: a senior corporate role, financial security, and a life others admired. But beneath the surface, she was battling burnout and a growing sense that her life no longer fit. When a physical injury forced her to stop, Jess was confronted with what she calls “soul suffocation.” It became the moment she could no longer ignore. In this episode, Jess s...

Leigh Hart’s career looks like a string of cult hits : Moon TV, SportsCafe, Late Night Big Breakfast, and the wildly successful Wakachangi beer and SnackaChangi snack empire. But behind the perceived highs is a story of never quite belonging. From a childhood spent overseas to feeling like an outsider at boarding school, Leigh learned early to rely on his own instincts rather than fitting the moul...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.