Kiwi Yarns

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!

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!).

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!

Today’s guest is one of our country’s greatest athletes.Dame Sophie Pascoe is our most decorated Paralympian and is the youngest person to be appointed a Dame - in the 2022 New Year’s Honours for her services to swimming.She is a remarkable woman, a truly special role model - we are so lucky to have her!It’s also been a massive year away from the black line for Sophie - she got married this year, and her and her husband Rob will be welcoming their first child in 2024.This is a remarkable episode, I'm so grateful Sophie shared this with us. X

Today’s guest is the first comedian I ever saw live and rest assured she’s been a favourite ever since!The award-winning Justine Smith took her first gig as a dare - and to sound cliché the rest is history. But, as you'll hear, the rest took time, patience and bloody hard work. She won the Billy T Award in 2003, and has been the winner of the Award for Best Female Performer from the NZ Comedy Guild an incredible four times.

TimProvise, roving sports reporter and host of the hilarious show Bakery Run, discusses his journey in finding his biological father, challenges in producing comedic content for his radio show, experiences with the vegan community, meeting the head of UFC ANZ, pastries, podcasting reflections, and gratitude towards a supporter.

Today’s guest is a very familiar face on our TV screens, the wonderful Entertainment Editor and Film Reviewer for Newshub - Kate Rodger.She has been all over the world, interviewed the biggest actors in the world, and knows everything there is to know about the film industry. Kate has this divine voice and delivery style that lures you in - even if you didn’t like the movie she’s talking about, you’re entranced!Kate also took a massive one for the team recently, and talked publicly about dealing with menopause.This is such a fantastic conversation, thank you Kate x