The Guest Speaker

Grace & Blair
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Real voices. Real journeys. Ready to find yours. At The Guest Speaker, we share real stories from New Zealanders who’ve backed themselves, made bold choices, and carved out careers on their own terms. From creative paths to unexpected turns, each guest has found their lane—and is honest about how they got there. For teens exploring what’s next, and for whānua wanting to support them, these conversations are here to inspire, guide, and remind you: there’s no single way to build a life that fits. Start listening. Find your spark. Shape your own story. - Blair & Grace

  1. 1d ago

    Dr. Riley Elliott: Inside the Mind of a Shark Scientist

    Sharks made Dr. Riley Elliott famous - but this conversation is about much more than sharks. Riley is one of the world's leading shark scientists, a documentary presenter for Shark Week, BBC and National Geographic, and a passionate advocate for marine conservation. In this episode he shares how curiosity, purpose and hard work took him from a student in Hamilton, New Zealand, to researching great white sharks around the world. Whether you're interested in science, conservation, media, university or simply finding meaningful work, this conversation is full of practical advice and inspiring stories.

    Dr. Riley Elliott: Inside the Mind of a Shark Scientist

  2. Jul 21

    Chloe Jones on The Future of Farming: Careers, Leadership & Opportunity

    Agriculture is one of New Zealand's largest industries, yet many young people have little idea of the incredible career opportunities it offers. In this episode of The Guest Speaker, we sit down with Chloe Jones - Operations Manager at Fonterra Farms, former National Chair of New Zealand Young Farmers, and a passionate advocate for the future of the food and fibre sector. Chloe shares her journey from a high school student unsure of what career to pursue, to studying Agricultural Science at Massey University, moving across the country for Fonterra's graduate programme, and building a career that combines leadership, strategy, business and farming. Along the way, we discuss the realities of university, scholarships, graduate programmes, leadership in your twenties, why communication is one of the most valuable skills you can develop, and how saying "yes" to opportunities helped shape her career. We also explore the incredible diversity within agriculture today - from science, technology and sustainability to business, operations and farm management - and why you don't need to grow up on a farm to find your place in the industry. Whether you're considering university, looking for career inspiration, interested in agriculture, or simply trying to figure out your next step after school, Chloe offers thoughtful, practical advice that will leave you feeling encouraged about the opportunities ahead. This conversation is a reminder that careers rarely follow a straight line - and sometimes keeping an open mind leads to opportunities you never imagined.

    Chloe Jones on The Future of Farming: Careers, Leadership & Opportunity

  3. Jul 14

    Amy Coulton on Adventure, Tourism & Burnout

    In this episode of The Guest Speaker, we sit down with Amy Coulton, whose journey has taken her from a high school career expo in New Zealand to working across luxury superyachts, tourism, hospitality and adventure travel around the world. Amy shares how studying at Queenstown Resort College opened unexpected doors, what life is actually like working in tourism, the incredible highs of exploring places like French Polynesia and the Kimberley, and the very real challenges of burnout, long hours and protecting your wellbeing. Whether you're considering tourism, hospitality, adventure travel, or simply want inspiration to create a life that's a little less ordinary, this conversation is packed with practical advice and honest insight. In this episode we discuss: Choosing an alternative pathway after high schoolQueenstown Resort College and studying tourismBuilding a career through internships and practical experienceWorking in the Cook Islands, Bay of Islands and beyondLife aboard luxury superyachtsBurnout, mental health and finding balanceFinancial literacy and creating opportunitiesWhy diverse skills can become your greatest advantage

    Amy Coulton on Adventure, Tourism & Burnout

  4. Jul 8

    Brittany Day | Finding Her Passion in Personal Training

    After pursuing tourism, having Covid completely change her plans, and later studying psychology at university, Brittany Day still hadn't found the career that truly excited her. It wasn't until someone casually suggested she'd make a great personal trainer that everything clicked. Today, Brittany is an award-recognised personal trainer and is helping people of all ages build confidence, strength and healthier lifestyles. In this episode, Brittany shares: - How she became a personal trainer in New Zealand - What qualifications and training are actually required - The realities of starting your own PT business - Working with beginners, injuries and building confidence - The truth about fitness advice on social media - Why personal training is about far more than lifting weights - Her future goals, including nutrition and owning her own gym Whether you're considering a career in health and fitness, love going to the gym, or you're still figuring out your own path after school, Brittany's journey is an encouraging reminder that the right career doesn't always happen straight away.

    Brittany Day | Finding Her Passion in Personal Training

  5. Jun 30

    Nick Roberts | Award-Winning Architect on Designing a Global Career

    In this episode of The Guest Speaker, internationally recognised architect Nick Roberts shares the journey from a New Zealand classroom to leading award-winning projects across New Zealand, Australia, the United States and the Netherlands. Nick is the founding director of Roberts Gray Architects, an educator, author and one of New Zealand's leading contemporary architects. His work has been recognised nationally and internationally, including award-winning residential projects, the Australian Prime Minister's Residence competition, teaching at Harvard University, and contributions to some of the world's most respected architecture practices. For students interested in architecture, design, engineering or any creative profession, this conversation provides an honest look at university, developing creative thinking, building a career overseas, and finding your own voice. Whether you're considering architecture, enjoy design, or simply love hearing how world-class professionals think, Nick offers thoughtful insights into creativity, leadership and lifelong learning.

    Nick Roberts | Award-Winning Architect on Designing a Global Career

  6. Jun 23

    Maia Joseph: Playing for the Black Ferns While Studying Medicine

    Maia Joseph may be best known as one of the brightest young stars in New Zealand rugby, but thats just one of her two sides. A Black Fern, medical student, and role model for young athletes across Aotearoa, Maia is proving that you don't have to choose between your passions. Growing up in Dunedin, Maia loved sport, worked hard at school, and never imagined she would one day be balancing a professional rugby career with medical school. Yet today, she is doing exactly that - representing New Zealand on the international stage while continuing her journey toward becoming a doctor. In this episode, Maia shares her path from playing rugby with the boys at lunchtime to earning a Black Ferns contract, studying medicine at the University of Otago, and navigating the challenges of pursuing two demanding careers at once. We discuss the realities of medical school, what it takes to perform at the highest level in sport, the influence of family, Māori identity, handling pressure on the world stage, and why she believes young people shouldn't feel limited to a single dream. Throughout the conversation, Maia reflects on the lessons that have shaped her: work hard, stay grounded, follow what you love, and don't be afraid to pursue more than one path. Whether you're an athlete, a student, a parent, or someone trying to figure out what's next, Maia's story is a powerful reminder that ambition, purpose, and passion can coexist.

    Maia Joseph: Playing for the Black Ferns While Studying Medicine

  7. Jun 16

    Brendan Murphy: The Reality of Architecture School, Resilience & Rebuilding Your Path

    In this episode, we sit down with Brendan Murphy, a University of Auckland architecture master’s student, to unpack what architecture school is really like - the creativity, the pressure, the studio culture, the workload, and the long road toward becoming a registered architect. Brendan shares his journey from Cambridge High School to architecture school, reflecting on the subjects that helped him most, why maths is not as essential as many students assume, and why creativity, curiosity, English, art, DVC, workshop skills, and a genuine passion for design matter so much. This conversation also goes deeper. Brendan speaks honestly about growing up around family violence, leaving home in Year 13, finding safety through another family, and continuing to pursue his goals through instability, COVID lockdowns, lost confidence, ADHD clarity, tough work, travel, and eventually rediscovering his love for architecture. For students considering architecture, this episode is a grounded look at the pathway: the application process, first-year expectations, studio culture, the intensity of final submissions, the bachelor’s-to-master’s decision, registration, job prospects, overseas opportunities, and why architecture is demanding - but deeply rewarding. This is for aspiring architects, creatives, students navigating uncertainty, and anyone who needs the reminder that your beginning does not have to define your future. *** Please note: this episode includes a first-hand discussion of family and domestic violence. If that is not something you want to listen to, please skip approximately minutes 20–30. Take care of yourself while listening. Support resources in New Zealand If you are in immediate danger, call 111. If you cannot speak safely, New Zealand family violence resources note that you can stay on the line and follow the call-taker prompts; Are You OK specifically says to press 55 if it is unsafe to speak. Women’s Refuge: 0800 REFUGE / 0800 733 843 — free 24/7 crisis support. Shine: 0508 744 633 — free family violence helpline, 24/7, with webchat available. Are You OK: 0800 456 450 — 24/7 family violence support and information. Safe to Talk: 0800 044 334 or text 4334 — 24/7 sexual harm support. Shakti Crisis Line: 0800 SHAKTI / 0800 742 584 — 24/7 multilingual support for migrant and refugee women.

    Brendan Murphy: The Reality of Architecture School, Resilience & Rebuilding Your Path

  8. Jun 9

    The NCAA Opportunity Alice Taylor Never Expected | Rice University, USA Texas

    Alice Taylor grew up in Cambridge, New Zealand, loving sport and throwing herself into every opportunity she could. But unlike many athletes who pursue American scholarships, she never believed the pathway was meant for her. After finishing school, Alice enrolled at Massey University with her sights set firmly on veterinary science. When that plan didn't work out, she found herself back home, working in a café, continuing to train, and trying to figure out what came next. What she didn't realise was that a conversation, a little persistence, and one email would soon open a door she never thought possible. Today, Alice is a full-scholarship student-athlete at Rice University in Houston, Texas. She has competed at NCAA Championships, earned multiple academic honours, and built an incredible life balancing elite sport with a degree in Sports Medicine and Exercise Physiology. In this episode, Alice shares the reality behind the American college experience: the recruitment process, scholarship funding, academic expectations, training demands, homesickness, injuries, and the support systems available to student-athletes. She explains why you don't need to be a national champion to attract attention from overseas universities and how the opportunities available are often far greater than young athletes realise. She also reflects on the challenges of building an identity beyond sport, adapting to life in another country, and making the most of opportunities that arrive unexpectedly. Throughout the conversation, Alice's story is a reminder that success isn't always about having the perfect plan - sometimes it's about staying open-minded enough to recognise a new path when it appears. For athletes, students, parents, and anyone navigating uncertainty about what's next, this episode offers practical insights, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that some of life's best opportunities begin with a simple decision to back yourself. Follow Alice: 📸 @alicetaylor2002 #studentathlete #ncaa #americanscholarship #trackandfield #highjump #careers #education #newzealand #podcast #theguestspeaker

    The NCAA Opportunity Alice Taylor Never Expected | Rice University, USA Texas
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About

Real voices. Real journeys. Ready to find yours. At The Guest Speaker, we share real stories from New Zealanders who’ve backed themselves, made bold choices, and carved out careers on their own terms. From creative paths to unexpected turns, each guest has found their lane—and is honest about how they got there. For teens exploring what’s next, and for whānua wanting to support them, these conversations are here to inspire, guide, and remind you: there’s no single way to build a life that fits. Start listening. Find your spark. Shape your own story. - Blair & Grace

Information

  • Creator
    Grace & Blair
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Grace & Blair
  • Show Website
    The Guest Speaker