Ideas That Inspire: Uplifting Conversations For A Better World

Emily Gifford

What if one idea could change everything? Are you passionate about supporting our planet, creative entrepreneurship, and making a positive impact? Ideas That Inspire brings you real conversations with everyday people doing incredible things—innovators, eco-conscious business owners and passionate individuals who are building businesses and lives with purpose. Hosted by Emily, your go-to cheerleader for turning ideas into impact. I started Ideas That Inspire to showcase people, brands, and businesses making a real difference. As a small business owner, I know how hard it is to stand out, so I’m here to amplify the voices of changemakers and share their stories to inspire and uplift others. What You’ll Find Here: - Interviews with inspiring entrepreneurs & industry experts - Stories of sustainability, creative problem-solving & mindful living - Insights & practical tips to help you take action on your own ideas & dreams From small actions to bold innovations, our guests show us what’s possible when we follow our intuition, embrace sustainable practices, and create meaningful change. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an eco-conscious consumer, or someone who loves uplifting stories, you’re in the right place. Ideas That Inspire is more than just a podcast—it’s a community. Join us as we explore what it means to live with purpose, redefine success, and contribute to a better world. Subscribe now & let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time!

Episodes

  1. 9. Behind the Mic: Reflections on My Podcast Journey

    07/14/2025

    9. Behind the Mic: Reflections on My Podcast Journey

    From Dream to Reality: What I’ve Learnt Launching My Podcast 🎙🎧 What really happens when you finally say yes to that big idea you've been dreaming about? In this special solo episode, I’m reflecting on what the last three months have really been like since launching the Ideas That Inspire podcast. The joy, the challenges, and the honest lessons I’ve discovered along the way. ⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode: The surprising insights I learnt about myself while creating the podcastWhat it really means to be a thoughtful and confident interviewerWhy defining your own version of success matters more than chasing numbersHow using AI behind the scenes became a total game-changer for meWhat’s next for Ideas That Inspire and how you might be part of it? ✅ Who this episode is for: This one’s for the community and any purpose-driven humans who are dreaming of bringing an idea to life, or simply need a reminder that trying something new can be scary and exciting. Tune in as I share what’s next for the podcast and how I’m creating space to come back to myself, while staying open to what the next season might hold. Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    9 min
  2. 8. Emotions & the Body: Understanding the Connection for Better Health

    06/30/2025

    8. Emotions & the Body: Understanding the Connection for Better Health

    What if your emotions could be the key to better physical health? 🤔 In this episode, I’m joined by Kim Knight from Art Of Health — also known as the Kiwi Health Detective. Kim is a Root Cause and Lifestyle Medicine practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience helping people heal from chronic pain and fatigue. After overcoming multiple chronic illnesses herself, she’s passionate about helping others tap into the body’s natural ability to heal — and trust themselves when it comes to their own health. Her work focuses on getting to the root cause of health challenges — and often, that root is buried in unprocessed emotions. We dive into the fascinating connection between emotions and the body, how emotional energy gets stored in different organs, and simple tools to help you validate, acknowledge and process feelings instead of pushing them aside and hoping they’ll disappear. ⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode: How emotions can physically impact your health and energy levelsWhy anxiety and depression are symptoms, not emotions themselvesPractical tools to recognise, allow, and clear emotional energyThe power of emotional intelligence and how it can change your wellbeing ✅ Who this episode is for: This conversation is for anyone curious about the link between mind and body, navigating chronic health challenges, or wanting to build more emotional resilience as an entrepreneur, business owner, or human. Hit play and remember: If emotions have ever felt overwhelming — you’re not alone, and understanding them might be the first step to feeling better. Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guest Info: Kim Knight from Art Of Health Website: www.artofhealth.co.nz for support with health issues Website: www.taohealthqigong.com Qigong & transformation of consciousness Website: www.emotionalalchemyacademy.com for emotional intelligence training Facebook: @KimKnightArtofHealth  Podcast: www.podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-kiwi-health-dectective  YouTube: @artofhealth1  Free Video Training: www.emotionalalchemyacademy.com/free.training 5 steps to dissolve emotions Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    1h 11m
  3. 7. Can’t Sleep? Here’s Why Good Sleep Actually Starts in the Morning

    06/16/2025

    7. Can’t Sleep? Here’s Why Good Sleep Actually Starts in the Morning

    Turns out, good sleep doesn’t start at night — it starts in the morning. 😮 🌅 If you’ve ever found yourself wide awake at 1am, googling “how to fall asleep faster,” this episode is for you. I’m joined by Sleep Therapist Kate Blyth from Intuitive Sleep, whose own battle with chronic insomnia led her to discover a simpler, more compassionate approach to rest — one that helped me finally fall asleep easily and sleep through the night after years of struggle. Kate shares why sleep is an innate process your body already knows how to do — and how the pressure to “fix” your sleep might be what’s keeping you stuck. We unpack common myths, explore the science of circadian rhythms and sleep drive, and look at how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) can gently retrain your brain for more reliable sleep. ⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode: Why good sleep starts in the morning — not at bedtimeHow accepting wakefulness can lead to better restWhy quality sleep matters more than clocking eight hoursPractical tools to reset your sleep without gimmicks or quick fixes ✅ Who this episode is for: This conversation is for anyone struggling with insomnia, feeling overwhelmed by sleep advice, or wanting to feel more rested, focused, and clear-headed as a business owner, parent, or creative entrepreneur. Hit play and remember: If sleep has ever felt like a struggle — you’re not alone, and the solution might be simpler than you think. Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guest: Kate Blyth from Intuitive Sleep Website: www.intuitivesleep.co.nz Instagram: @intuitive.sleep  Facebook: @intuitivesleep  Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    46 min
  4. 6. Imperfect Parenting & the Power of Inclusive Community

    06/02/2025

    6. Imperfect Parenting & the Power of Inclusive Community

    In a world full of parenting pressure, what if you gave yourself permission to be imperfect? In this honest and heart-centred episode, I’m joined by Sophie Moskowitz, founder of Imperfect Parents — an inclusive, parent education community supporting families through the messy, ever-changing stages of early parenthood. What began with Sophie sharing her own experience on Instagram during the 2020 lockdowns has grown into a thriving community offering pregnancy circles, antenatal classes, nature playgroups, and inclusive parent support groups for all kinds of families. Sophie’s mission is clear: to help parents feel less alone, let go of perfection, and connect through compassion and shared experience. Whether you're navigating newborn life or just craving more connection, this conversation will leave you feeling seen and supported. ⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode: Why parenting was never meant to be done alone — and how community makes all the differenceHow embracing imperfection and self-compassion supports your wellbeingThe benefits of open-ended and nature-based play for children’s growthHow inclusivity and safe spaces can transform the parenting experienceWhat it really takes to build a purpose-led business while navigating motherhood ✅ Who this episode is for: Parents (including the LGBTQIA+ community), parent-founders, community builders, or anyone seeking a more grounded, compassionate approach to parenting and connection. Hit play and remember: If you’re finding parenting hard, that’s because it is hard — and you’re not doing anything wrong! Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guest: Sophie Moskowitz from Imperfect Parents Website: www.imperfectparents.co.nz Instagram: @imperfectparents.nz  Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    1h 5m
  5. 5. Building With Purpose: A Kiwi Builder’s Vision for a Better Future

    05/19/2025

    5. Building With Purpose: A Kiwi Builder’s Vision for a Better Future

    What if the way we build our homes could reshape the future of our health, communities, and the planet? 🏡 🌏 In this eye-opening episode, I’m joined by Mark Anderson — founder of MA Building, a values-led construction business based in Wānaka, New Zealand. Mark is on a mission to raise industry standards through sustainable building practices, while fostering leadership and personal growth in the industry. We dive into his journey as a young builder launching a business at just 27, to becoming a champion of passive homes and positive work culture. Mark brings a refreshingly honest take on what it means to lead with purpose in a traditionally tough industry. ⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode: Why passive homes are 90% more efficient — and how smart design supports our health and the environmentCommon myths about energy-efficient homes (yes, you can open the windows!)Practical ways to improve energy efficiency in your current or future homeWhy backing yourself, building resilience, and staying connected to community is key to business successHow personal growth and conscious leadership create ripple effects — at work, at home, and beyond ✅ Who this episode is for: Eco-conscious homeowners, builders, leaders, or anyone curious about healthier homes, conscious construction, and what it means to live and lead with purpose. Hit play and be inspired by a down-to-earth Kiwi builder showing us what’s possible when you choose to do things differently — and make a difference. Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guests: Mark Anderson from MA Building Website: www.mabuilding.co.nz Instagram: @mabuilding_wanaka  Facebook: @MABuildingWanaka LinkedIn: @mark-anderson  Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    1h 4m
  6. 4. The Power of Sharing Your Story: From Pain to Purpose

    05/05/2025

    4. The Power of Sharing Your Story: From Pain to Purpose

    When women speak their truth, they light the way for others. ✨ In this heartfelt and uplifting episode, I’m joined by Carol Beaumont and Michelle Emery — the inspiring duo behind Her Courage Speaks, a platform that empowers women to transform pain into purpose through honest storytelling and meaningful community. Together, we explore how sharing our most vulnerable moments can be a powerful gateway to healing — not just for ourselves, but for those who hear our stories. Carol and Michelle open up about the personal challenges that shaped their mission, the courage it takes to own your story, and the real magic that unfolds when women gather in safe, supportive spaces to connect. You’ll also hear what it’s really like to go into business with a longtime friend, what to expect at one of their beautiful, live events, and why self-care and community are essential when navigating and overcoming trauma. ⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode: Why vulnerability is key to building authentic connection and communityHow storytelling can shift your mindset and empower othersTips for public speaking and moving through imposter syndromeThe importance of self-care, safe spaces, and asking for helpHow collaboration and community support create lasting ripple effects ✅ Who this episode is for: This one’s for women navigating healing, purpose, or new beginnings; anyone craving meaningful connection; and those who believe in the power of real, raw, courageous conversations. Press play and let this episode remind you: you don’t have to do it alone. 💕 Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time! 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guests: Carol Beaumont and Michelle Emery from Her Courage Speaks Website: www.hercourage.co.nz Instagram - Carol Beaumont: @hercourage_carol  Instagram - Michelle Emery: @hercouragerises  Events: www.hercourage.co.nz/event-list  Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    37 min
  7. 3. Sustainable Business Made Simple: The Power of Buy Once, Refill Forever

    04/21/2025

    3. Sustainable Business Made Simple: The Power of Buy Once, Refill Forever

    What if something as simple as your hand wash could be part of the solution to plastic pollution? In this inspiring episode, we dive into the story behind Ascent, a New Zealand-based brand that’s rethinking personal care through sustainability and circular design. I’m joined by founder Patrick Jurriaans, the visionary behind Ascent’s Buy Once, Refill Forever approach—a refreshing model in a world overwhelmed by plastic. What started as Patrick’s love for the ocean quickly grew into a mission to reduce plastic waste and shift consumer habits. Through Ascent, he’s proving that sustainable products can still offer quality, convenience, and thoughtful design. We talk about what it really takes to launch an eco-conscious business, why recycling isn’t the solution we think it is, and how small daily choices can ripple into meaningful impact. You’ll also hear why businesses must take responsibility for their products beyond the point of sale—including what happens at the end of their life cycle. Patrick shares how Ascent is paving the way for new brands to embrace circular models that serve both people and the planet. Plus, he opens up about the inspiration behind their Ocean Foam Hand & Body Wash, and why using natural, locally sourced New Zealand ingredients is at the heart of their mission. What you’ll learn in this episode: What a circular model really is—and why supporting brands using it matters more than ever beforeThe impact of plastic waste and how no waste refills can be a game-changerWhy patience, research, and perseverance matters in entrepreneurshipWhy convenience is key to helping people make more eco-conscious decisionsThe future of conscious consumerism and how you can be part of it Who this episode is for: Perfect for eco-conscious consumers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about building a business that puts the planet first. Hit play, and let’s explore what’s possible when you combine passion, purpose, and innovation. Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time! 🌟 Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guest: Patrick Jurriaans from Ascent Website: www.ascentrefills.nz Instagram: @ascentrefills.nz Facebook: Ascent Refills  Support the podcast and Ascent! Order the: East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set  East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link. Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    39 min
  8. 2. Rethinking Waste: How Small Actions Create Big Change

    04/07/2025

    2. Rethinking Waste: How Small Actions Create Big Change

    Yes! Small daily choices really can make a big difference for the planet! In this episode, I chat with Kate Fenwick, founder of Waste-Ed With Kate and a straight-talking waste educator who’s here to challenge the way we think about waste. She’s on a mission to help Kiwis rethink how we buy, use, and dispose of everyday items.  Kate breaks down what actually happens to our waste, why our throwaway culture needs a major rethink and how simple changes in our daily habits really can reduce waste in a big way. With her relatable approach to sustainability, Kate shares that you don’t have to be perfect to make a difference. What you’ll learn in this episode: The surprising truth about recycling (and what actually works)Why we need to rethink how we vote with our dollars to shift supply and demandThe “touchy" life cycle of a broccoli (yes, really!) and why you’ll never look at corn the same way againThe hidden cost of a world built for convenience and constant upgrades—and what we can do about itWhy small actions do matter and how to start making a difference today Who this episode is for: If you’re new to sustainability or already making changes, this conversation will inspire you to rethink waste, make more conscious choices, and take simple steps toward a more sustainable future. Ready to be inspired? Hit subscribe and join the conversation! Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time! Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Guest Information Guest: Kate Fenwick from Waste-Ed With Kate Website: www.wastedkate.co.nz Instagram: @wastedwithkate Facebook: Waste-Ed with Kate  TikTok: @wasted.kate YouTube: @WasteEdwithKate Events: https://www.wastedkate.co.nz/live-events Documentary: https://www.wastedkate.co.nz/wasted-nz  Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

    1h 3m
  9. 1. Dreaming Big & Taking Action: My Journey & How Ideas That Inspire Came to Life

    03/31/2025

    1. Dreaming Big & Taking Action: My Journey & How Ideas That Inspire Came to Life

    What if listening to one podcast could change the course of your life? In this very first episode of Ideas That Inspire, I (Emily!) share my journey—from discovering podcasts in 2011 to launching this show today. I take you behind the scenes of my unconventional career path, the personal and professional challenges I’ve faced, and the pivotal moments that shaped who I am. If you’ve ever felt drawn to something bigger but weren’t sure where to start, this episode is for you. What you’ll learn in this episode: How a single podcast episode sparked my love for learning and personal growth.My journey from TV production to health coaching to entrepreneurship.The unexpected life lessons I learned from moving countries, embracing change, and following my intuition.Why Ideas That Inspire exists and what you can expect from future episodes. Who this episode is for: If you're a creative entrepreneur, a budding podcaster, or someone who loves inspiring stories about redefining success, this episode is for you!  Ready to be inspired? Hit subscribe and join the conversation! Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time! Follow & Connect Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom Listen & Subscribe On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here Join the Community Sign up for my newsletter Want to be a guest on the podcast? Apply here Work with Me Book A Clarity Call Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay Intro: Happy by John_Sib Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

    22 min

About

What if one idea could change everything? Are you passionate about supporting our planet, creative entrepreneurship, and making a positive impact? Ideas That Inspire brings you real conversations with everyday people doing incredible things—innovators, eco-conscious business owners and passionate individuals who are building businesses and lives with purpose. Hosted by Emily, your go-to cheerleader for turning ideas into impact. I started Ideas That Inspire to showcase people, brands, and businesses making a real difference. As a small business owner, I know how hard it is to stand out, so I’m here to amplify the voices of changemakers and share their stories to inspire and uplift others. What You’ll Find Here: - Interviews with inspiring entrepreneurs & industry experts - Stories of sustainability, creative problem-solving & mindful living - Insights & practical tips to help you take action on your own ideas & dreams From small actions to bold innovations, our guests show us what’s possible when we follow our intuition, embrace sustainable practices, and create meaningful change. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an eco-conscious consumer, or someone who loves uplifting stories, you’re in the right place. Ideas That Inspire is more than just a podcast—it’s a community. Join us as we explore what it means to live with purpose, redefine success, and contribute to a better world. Subscribe now & let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time!