On this episode, I sit down with Mike Brown, an inspiring advocate for resilience, positivity, and personal growth. Mike is the host of the Stand Up Again podcast, where he shares powerful insights on overcoming adversity, healing from trauma, and rebuilding confidence after life’s toughest challenges. We discuss his unique journey, from navigating toxic relationships and single parenthood to creating an uplifting presence on social media that inspires men to embrace empowerment and positivity. Originally from Christchurch, Mike has lived across the world, including South America, where he ran a bike school for kids. Through his experiences, he’s developed a deep understanding of mindset shifts, personal development, and mental toughness, all of which he shares in this conversation.

Our discussion delves into the pivotal moments that shaped Mike’s perspective, including his time living in vastly different cultures, working in high-energy hospitality spaces, and ultimately returning to New Zealand with a renewed sense of purpose. He reflects on the importance of self-awareness, stepping into one’s power, and breaking free from people-pleasing tendencies that can lead to emotional disconnection. Mike’s story is a testament to the power of personal transformation, and he offers valuable insights on standing tall in the face of adversity. Whether you’re navigating challenges in relationships, struggling with self-worth, or looking to cultivate resilience, this conversation provides both inspiration and practical advice to help you stand up again.

Follow Mike Brown on Instagram: mike_brown_stand_up

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In this episode, I sit down with Hamish Mertens, a Christchurch-based personal trainer, to explore the polarising experiences of being diagnosed and medicated for ADHD at vastly different stages of life. While I received my diagnosis and began medication at 37, Hamish faced his diagnosis and treatment as a child, ultimately choosing to live without medication as an adult.

We delve into how these contrasting journeys shaped our identities, coping mechanisms, and understanding of ADHD. Hamish opens up about the challenges of navigating stigma, medication, and social dynamics as a child, reflecting on how these experiences impacted his confidence, relationships, and sense of self. Meanwhile, I share my perspective on discovering ADHD as an adult, unpacking the shift in self-awareness and the role of medication in my daily life.

Together, we examine the strengths and challenges ADHD brings, from hyperfocus and lateral thinking to social and emotional hurdles. This conversation bridges the gap between the medical and cultural narratives around ADHD, offering insights into how the condition can be managed and reframed as a source of resilience and growth.

Whether you’ve been navigating ADHD for years, are newly diagnosed, or are a parent of a child with ADHD, this episode provides valuable perspectives and practical takeaways. It highlights the importance of understanding and supporting ADHD in all its forms, at every stage of life, and creating environments where the unique strengths of ADHD can flourish.

Find Hamish on Instagram: personaltrainerchristchurch

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Follow Josh Townshend on Instagram: townshendjosh

In this episode, I sit down with Morgan Calas, head of mountain biking at Christchurch Adventure Park, to explore resilience, independence, and the powerful role of community in outdoor sports.

With over two decades in the cycling industry, Morgan shares his journey from being bullied as a child to finding empowerment and self-confidence through mountain biking. What began as a love for mechanics grew into a lifelong career and passion for teaching.

Now, as an instructor, Morgan is dedicated to mentoring young riders, helping them build resilience through the physical and mental challenges that come with the sport. We discuss how experiences on the trails teach essential life skills like decision-making and self-reliance, and how Morgan's own background helps him empathize with youth facing social and personal hurdles.

Together, we reflect on the value of creating a supportive environment where kids can confront obstacles, make mistakes, and grow. For both of us, it’s clear that these outdoor experiences build confidence, compassion, and a sense of community that will carry them far beyond the trails.

Find Morgan on Instagram: morgsmtb

Follow The Social Wildlife on Instagram: thesocialwildlife
Follow Josh Townshend on Instagram: townshendjosh