ShedLifeNZ Podcast

NZ sport is firing, and we’re covering all the action in Episode 7 of Shedlife Sport!The Warriors are flying high and pushing towards the NRL minor premiership, NPC rugby is delivering incredible games, and the Heartland Championship has kicked off with a bang.We also celebrate Hauraki North Stickmen winning the Stan Wilson Cup, recap the latest Ranfurly Shield action, make our NPC and Heartland picks, and preview the massive All Blacks vs Springboks test.It’s the fans’ view of sport, straight from the changing sheds.Who are you backing in the All Blacks vs Springboks test? Let us know your score prediction in the comments.Like the episode, subscribe to the channel and join us each week for more Shedlife Sport!#ShedlifeSport #AllBlacks #Springboks #Warriors #NRL #NPC #HeartlandRugby #NewZealandRugby #NZSport

Former All Black, Highlanders champion and Samoa international Lima Sopoaga joins ShedlifeNZ for an honest conversation about the historic 2015 Super Rugby title, his unforgettable debut at Ellis Park, and the year on social media that changed his life after rugby.From feeling like a superhero in the black jersey to becoming a Sky Sport broadcaster, Lima opens up about the defining moments, decisions and people behind his journey.Lima tells the story behind Tony Brown’s famous backwards kick, which did not work once at training before coming off under the lights against the Hurricanes. He reflects on the Highlanders’ championship season, the lessons he learned from Jamie Joseph and Brad Thorn, what it meant to represent both the All Blacks and Samoa, and why he chose time with his wife and daughters over another overseas rugby contract.He also explains how a challenge to post 30 videos in 30 days helped him gain 13,000 followers, overcome the fear of what people might think, and open the door to opportunities with Sky Sport. One year later, Lima says he feels more popular now than during his playing career and believes the decision to start creating content changed his life.This is Lima Sopoaga beyond the highlights: rugby, identity, family, resilience, social media and learning to become a beginner again.In this episode:• Becoming an All Black at Ellis Park• Feeling like a superhero in the black jersey• The Highlanders’ historic 2015 Super Rugby title• The true story behind the famous backwards kick• Jamie Joseph, Tony Brown and Brad Thorn• Representing the All Blacks and Samoa• Playing for Wasps, Lyon, Japan and Waikato• Choosing family over another overseas contract• Growing 13,000 followers in 30 days• Moving from professional rugby into Sky Sport and social media• Why rugby was what he did, not who he isSubscribe to ShedlifeNZ for positive stories about good people working hard.Which part of Lima’s journey stood out most to you? Let us know in the comments.

Big weekend of sport and plenty to yarn about on this one.The Warriors were unreal, Waikato are 2 from 2, the All Blacks are building nicely, and David Nyika got another big win.Quentin and I also get into the NPC picks, Sheilla Yama, Manu Vatuvei vs Rene Ranger, a bit of arm wrestling, local rugby, hockey and whatever else came across the plate.We’re just fans having a chat, backing our teams and enjoying the stories around sport.Have a listen, let us know what we got wrong, and tell us what we should be talking about next.#ShedLifeNZ #NZSport #WaikatoRugby #Warriors #AllBlacks #NZBoxing

Former Black Caps captain Ken Rutherford made his test debut at 19 against the greatest fast bowling attack in cricket history, scored 12 runs in his first seven innings, and came back to play 56 tests, captain New Zealand and be part of the 1992 Cricket World Cup run that stopped the country.Jason Davis and KJ sit down with Ken on the ShedLife NZ Podcast for the full story, from south Dunedin club cricket to leading his country.Ken grew up working class on Oxford Street in south Dunedin, a few doors down from the McCullums, and was playing first class cricket for Otago at 17. Two years later he was named in the New Zealand side for the 1985 tour of the West Indies, alongside Richard Hadlee, John Wright, Jeremy Coney and Ian Smith, and thrown straight in against Malcolm Marshall, Joel Garner and Michael Holding. He talks about what that actually felt like at 19, getting hit in the chest by Holding before he could lift the bat, and why he never gave up on it.He takes us inside the 1992 World Cup, when he was told a month out that he was not even in the reckoning, then got the call and averaged over 42 for the tournament. Beating Australia at a half empty Eden Park, Mark Greatbatch going after the new ball, Dipak Patel opening the bowling, the country getting behind them, and the semifinal against Pakistan that got away.Then captaining New Zealand. The 1994 test win at the Wanderers in Johannesburg, calling heads and batting first when the entire changing room wanted to bowl, and winning the series in South Africa 2-1. Five years at Transvaal, two seasons coaching Ireland, a long career in racing and wagering with the New Zealand TAB and Singapore Pools, and what he says is the hardest job he has ever had, CEO of Northern Districts Cricket. Ken does not hold back on how over governed sport in New Zealand has become.There are some great yarns in this one too. The triple hundred at Scarborough on no sleep, a few quiet ones in a Swansea pub with John Wright while the game was still going, Shane Warne at the SCG, bumping into James Earl Jones in a lift in Joburg, and his son Hamish Rutherford scoring 171 on debut against England, which Ken says was a far bigger moment than anything he did himself.A proper Kiwi story from a bloke who kept turning up.Out now on YouTube, Spotify, iTunes and wherever you get your podcasts. Give us a follow and subscribe so you don't miss an episode.ABOUT SHEDLIFE NZShedLife NZ with Jason Davis is a long form Kiwi podcast featuring sportspeople, fighters, business owners, builders and community legends. Expect straight up New Zealand stories, useful lessons and plenty of laughs from good people working hard.Website: shedlife.co.nzInstagram, TikTok and YouTube: @shedlifenzFacebook: fb.com/nzshedlifeTopics: Ken Rutherford, Black Caps, New Zealand cricket, 1992 Cricket World Cup, Otago cricket, Northern Districts Cricket, Richard Hadlee, Martin Crowe, John Wright, Mark Greatbatch, Dipak Patel, West Indies 1985, Malcolm Marshall, Michael Holding, Shane Warne, Transvaal cricket, South Africa 1994, Hamish Rutherford, Beige Brigade, cricket captaincy and New Zealand sport governance.#ShedLifeNZ #KenRutherford #BlackCaps #NZCricket #1992WorldCup

Ryan Fox has delivered one of New Zealand sport’s great feel-good stories.In this episode of Shed Life Sport, KJ and I unpack Foxy’s remarkable Open triumph - from nearly missing the cut to becoming a major champion. We discuss what makes him so relatable, the challenge of links golf, the pressures that come with superstardom, and why this victory could take New Zealand golf to another level.

#FrancisWaitai #Waikato #NPC #CommGames #NRLWaikato smash Bay of Plenty in the NPC opener, Francis Waitai delivers a brutal first-round KO, and New Zealand haul in 36 medals at the Commonwealth Games. It was a stacked weekend of Kiwi sport, and we cover it all. Episode 5 of the ShedLife NZ Sport Weekly Wrap is here with Jason Davis and Quentin Hill, your weekly round-up of Waikato rugby, league, boxing, UFC and everything in between, straight from the shed.This week, the boys break down Waikato's statement 36-point-to-half-time opening win over Bay of Plenty in front of the biggest opening-round crowd in 8 years, taking out the Chiefs County Cup after four straight losses to the Steamers. The Vodafone Warriors ground out a big win over the Titans up on the Gold Coast, with Tamati Marun scoring twice, holding onto that top-two push.On the fight scene, Jason relives Francis "The Punisher" Waitai's statement win over South African import Cowan Ray, two knockdowns in the first minute and a liver shot to finish him, plus Waikato's Saskia Elliot claiming the WBA Oceania title on points against Australian champion Leah Ruben, and City Kickboxing's Navajo Sterling scoring a first-round KO on just 8 days' notice at UFC.Then it's the Commonwealth Games wrap: 36 medals including golds for Zoe Hobbs in the 100m, David Liti hoisting 277kg in weightlifting, Sydney Andrews in judo, and the Silver Ferns beating Jamaica for netball gold. Plus round one of the NPC, Richie Mo'unga's return for Canterbury, the Ranfurly Shield rematch on the horizon, and the boys launch a brand-new segment, weekly footy picks, with predictions locked in ahead of round two.What was your favourite moment from the weekend? Let us know in the comments below.ABOUT SHEDLIFE NZShedLife NZ is a Waikato-based podcast telling the stories of good people working hard, with the lessons and laughs along the way. From weekly sports wraps to long-form interviews and honest conversations with New Zealand athletes, coaches, tradies and community legends, it's Kiwi sport and Kiwi stories, done our way.Hosted by Jason Davis and Quentin Hill.SUBSCRIBE to ShedLife NZ for new episodes every week, and follow along:Website: shedlife.co.nzInstagram / TikTok / YouTube: @shedlifenzFacebook: fb.com/nzshedlifeTopics this week: New Zealand sport, Waikato rugby, NPC, Chiefs County Cup, NZ Warriors, NRL, Francis Waitai, NZ boxing, Saskia Elliot, UFC, Navajo Sterling, Commonwealth Games, Zoe Hobbs, David Liti, netball, Ranfurly Shield.#ShedLifeNZ #WaikatoRugby #NRL #Warriors #NZBoxing #UFC #CommonwealthGames #NetballNZ #NZSport #Podcast

Mike from Lightwire caught up with Jason at Fieldays for a chat about a genuine Kiwi success story. Lightwire's hooked up Jason's own internet out on the farm for the last 12 years, so this one's personal.Mike's the GM of Infrastructure at Lightwire, which started out as a Waikato University experiment 20 years ago before local businessman Andrew Johnson took it on and grew it into a company running 200 wireless towers from Bombay down to Taupō, connecting around 9,000 rural homes, farms and businesses across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.What sets them apart is how they look at a whole property rather than just the farmhouse, dairy sheds, wool sheds, cottages, the lot, and if anything goes wrong you're onto a local Hamilton based team who pick up the phone in 45 seconds flat. They're also moving into farm security setups with cameras and gate control, pushing fibre into communities the big players left behind, building private networks into retirement villages, and now offering mobile plans too.If you're out on a rural property and need better connectivity, sheds included, Lightwire's offering 2 months free internet and 6 months free mobile for new customers who come find them at Fieldays.#rural #internet #newzealand #podcast #kiwibusiness

Jason and Quentin are back for Episode 4 of Talking Sport, covering a massive week across New Zealand sport.They break down the newly named 44-man All Blacks squad, the bolters selected for the upcoming South African tour, returning players and the combinations that could be taking shape ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup.The conversation also covers Waikato’s NPC season opener against Bay of Plenty, New Zealand’s Commonwealth Games medal performances, 3x3 basketball, boxing, the Warriors, BMX World Championships, Super Rugby Aupiki and the latest results from local hockey and grassroots sport.

Fresh faces and a new coaching group are setting the tone for Waikato’s 2026 NPC campaign.Jason Davis and Quentin Hill catch up with Japanese international Daiki Nakajima, James Tucker, Hamilton Burr and other Mooloos about their club roots, returning from injury, fighting for game time and the matches ahead.Waikato FPC players chasing a third straight title and lifelong supporters also join the conversation, along with a few important questions about bench press numbers and who has the best hair in the NPC.

Ryan Fox wins The Open, Hautapu pull off a stunning comeback final, and the All Blacks make it 53 unbeaten at Eden Park — it was a massive weekend of New Zealand sport, and we cover the lot.Part 3 of the ShedLife NZ Sport Weekly Wrap is here with Jason Davis, Quentin Hill and Mark Davis — your weekly round-up of Kiwi rugby, league, golf, combat sports and everything in between, straight from the shed in the Waikato.This week, Quentin takes us inside Hautapu Sports' unforgettable Waikato Premier club rugby final victory over Hamilton Marist, storming back after falling 13–0 behind early to be crowned Waikato Breweries Shield champions. The boys also break down the All Blacks extending their remarkable 32-year Eden Park unbeaten record to 53 Tests with a six-try demolition of Ireland in the Nations Championship under new coach Dave Rennie, the NZ Warriors grinding out a win to hold second place on the NRL ladder, and Ryan Fox making New Zealand golf history at Royal Birkdale — the first Kiwi to win The Open since Bob Charles in 1963 and just the fourth New Zealander ever to win a major.On the fight scene, Jason previews a big one for the Coromandel — Francis "The Punisher" Waitai defending his WBA Oceania super-middleweight title against Cowin Ray at Eventfinda Stadium on August 2 — plus the latest UFC action as Dricus du Plessis returns to beat Kamaru Usman in Oklahoma City. And Mark closes the show with the NZ BMX freestyle scene, the AK Crew, and the weekend jams at Vic Park and Franklin Farm.Plus, the crew look ahead to the approaching NPC season and Waikato's upcoming squad announcement, the next Ranfurly Shield challenge, the All Blacks' tour of South Africa, and the Glasgow Commonwealth Games kicking off later this month.IN THIS EPISODE (00:00 Intro and Ryan Fox wins The Open03:00 Hautapu's comeback win over Hamilton Marist in the Waikato final06:00 Ryan Fox makes New Zealand golf history10:00 All Blacks make it 53 unbeaten at Eden Park v Ireland13:00 NZ Warriors hold second on the NRL ladder18:00 Francis Waitai v Cowin Ray preview, plus UFC: du Plessis beats Usman23:00 Mark's Corner: BMX freestyle and the AK Crew jams26:00 Looking ahead: NPC, Ranfurly Shield, South Africa tour and the Commonwealth Games29:00 Final wordWhat was your biggest sporting moment from the weekend? Let us know in the comments below.ABOUT SHEDLIFE NZShedLife NZ is a Waikato-based podcast telling the stories of good people working hard, with the lessons and laughs along the way. From weekly sports wraps to long-form interviews and honest conversations with New Zealand athletes, coaches, tradies and community legends, it's Kiwi sport and Kiwi stories, done our way.Hosted by Jason Davis and Quentin Hill, with Mark Davis.SUBSCRIBE to ShedLife NZ for new episodes every week, and follow along:Website: shedlife.co.nzInstagram / TikTok / YouTube: @shedlifenzFacebook: fb.com/nzshedlifeTopics this week: New Zealand sport, Waikato rugby, Hautapu, Hamilton Marist, Waikato Breweries Shield, All Blacks, Eden Park, Nations Championship, NZ Warriors, NRL, Ryan Fox, The Open, golf, UFC, Francis Waitai, NZ boxing, BMX freestyle, NPC, Ranfurly Shield, Commonwealth Games.#ShedLifeNZ #Hautapu #WaikatoRugby #AllBlacks #EdenPark #Warriors #NRL #RyanFox #TheOpen #UFC #NZBoxing #BMX #NPC #NZSport #Podcast

Caught up with singer-songwriter James Brodie at Fieldays for a chat that went a lot deeper than we expected.James talks us through how he got into music as a young kid, picking up guitar lessons before getting serious about songwriting at 16 on the advice of a counsellor. Music became his way of working through long-standing mental health struggles with autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, something he's been open and honest about.After being seriously injured in a car crash in 2024, James spent 18 months recording 16 songs while relearning how to play guitar and keyboard. Ten of those tracks make up his debut solo album, Bridges, out with Stillwater Lines in July and August on CD, vinyl and all the usual streaming platforms. He's got NZ shows running from August through December, with international dates hopefully to follow next year.James opens up about his faith, taking things one day at a time, and the message he wants to leave with anyone doing it tough right now, that it's okay to not be okay, and it's always okay to ask for help.Follow James at @jamesbrodiescorner on Instagram.#mentalhealth #music #newzealand #podcast #hope

Caught up with BMX legend John Kelly at Fieldays this year for a good yarn about all things BMX.John's up from Mangawhai and gave us the full story on the old Orewa mini ramp, the very same half pipe he dropped in on as a kid, now getting rebuilt and given a new home at the Mangawhai Skatepark. Steel frame, wood on top, and set to sit out in the sun rather than rotting away in the bush.We also got into Spa Jam 2026, the talent coming through at every level, first back flips from kids as young as four, and how much the event has grown thanks to Hugh and the Spoon Works crew. John touches on the wider NZ BMX scene too, the old Whangarei warehouse days, Jed Mildon's place down south, and why he reckons there should be an over 40s category at the next New Zealand Park Contest.A great chat with a good bloke, recorded live at Fieldays 2026.#bmx #newzealand #fieldays #skatepark #podcast

James Tucker played 13 years of professional rugby for Waikato, the Chiefs, Blues, Hurricanes and Brumbies, plus stints in Italy and Japan, and along the way racked up 22 surgeries, including two blown ACLs, a broken sacrum and rib cartilage snapped clean in half on both sides. He joins us on the ShedlifeNZ Podcast to take us through the whole ride.We get into the injuries that should have ended his career more than once, the wild story of being accused of eye gouging at the Under 20 World Cup and facing a 16 week ban before being cleared the day before the semi final, winning the Ranfurly Shield with Waikato, almost tipping up the British and Irish Lions playing for a Barbarians side in Whangarei, and what it was like living and playing rugby in Italy and Japan.We also chat about life after rugby, running Busy Bees Cleaning across Waikato and Bay of Plenty with his wife Courtney, who has just started her own accounting business, Tucker Accounting.It was awesome to have James Tucker on the ShedlifeNZ Podcast this week. Let us know your thoughts down in the comments below.

Leonardo Garcia Curtis joins the ShedLife NZ Podcast. Leonardo's the former CEO of Zyber, an award winning ecommerce agency, and now runs WABOOM AI helping Kiwi businesses actually use AI properly.In this one we got Claude to build a live website for Waikato Sheds while we sat there talking, start to finish, on camera. We get into how AI is already changing the call centre game with voice agents that sound completely human, how one tool can now do the jobs of many people across a business, and what that means for the future of work. Leonardo also walks us through his own journey, from a hotel bellboy job through building and running Zyber to starting WABOOM AI.We throw a few real world questions at AI live too, pricing a concrete driveway, picking the healthiest orange juice off a supermarket shelf, and working out what a kebab actually costs to make.#ai #smallbusiness #ecommerce #newzealand #podcast

Part 2 of the ShedLifeNZ sports chat is here, from NZ sport to world sport, we cover it all this week.On the home front, Hautapu are through to the final after a big semi win and out to stop Marist's three peat, the All Blacks are building nicely after that win over Italy with Will Jordan now the all time leading try scorer, and the countdown to the Springbok series is on.Across the world it's a massive week too, Israel Adesanya's shock exit from City Kickboxing, Conor McGregor's brutal comeback, Robert Whitaker moving up a weight class, and the Warriors bouncing back in the NRL.#AllBlacks #UFC #NRL #NZRugby #Springboks

He was raised to be an Olympic ski jumper in France. Years later, on the other side of the world, he's a BMX rider, a commercial pilot, and a head chef, all at once. Lulu Bejot sits down with Jason and Mark on ShedLife NZ to tell the full story.He started ski jumping at 5 years old on tiny 5 metre jumps in a small village in eastern France, working his way up to 100 metre jumps before injuries broke his wrist, his back, and his season one too many times. He walked away from it all at 16.Two years later he moved alone to New Caledonia with zero English and picked up a BMX bike for the first time. After watching Jed Mildon land the first ever triple backflip, he messaged fellow rider Jayden Leeming on Facebook and moved to New Zealand to ride with him. This is the complete Lulu Bejot story.Lulu opens up about freezing solid on his first run at the FISE World Cup in France in front of half a million people, working his way from dishwasher to head chef, and getting his commercial pilot's license while riding full time.

New series kicking off in the shed. Quentin Hill, project manager at Waikato Sheds and a genuine weapon on the wing for Hautapu, sits down to talk rugby.Born in South Africa, he grew up chasing the All Black dream like every Kiwi kid. These days he's just loving life scoring tries for Hautapu, four years in with 50+ games with NZ Harlequins call up's along the way.We get into his own rugby journey, back the boys ahead of the Springbok series, and lock in our predictions for round one of the NPC. First of many rugby chats on ShedLife, this is just the start.

Jed Mildon and Nick Franklin join us on the ShedLife NZ Podcast, and this one's an absolute ride.Jed's the Taupo BMX rider who landed the world's first ever triple backflip, then went back a few years later and pulled off the world's first quad. Nick's spent his whole career in freestyle motocross, touring the globe with Red Bull X Fighters and Nitro Circus, including jumping his dirt bike over the Trojan Horse in Turkey. Two guys who built ramps in backyards and ended up doing things nobody else on earth had done.We get into how it all started, the world tours, the injuries, the mates they've made along the way, and what it's really like living inside Nitro Circus. Good yarns, big stories, proper legends.Out now on YouTube, Spotify, iTunes and wherever you get your podcasts. Give us a follow and subscribe so you don't miss an episode.Hosted by Jason Davis with Mark Davis.#bmx #freestylemotocross #nitrocircus #waikato

At just 17 years old, Ollie Pringle packed his bags and headed to Bristol, England to play club cricket. What started as a sporting opportunity turned into four years of travel, lifelong friendships and lessons that shaped who he is today.Now a Business Development Manager at Tutill Carriers, Ollie joins Jason Davis in the shed for an honest conversation about travelling young, building meaningful relationships and life in the transport industry. They also chat about all things New Zealand, creating content on LinkedIn, viral moments online and why the people you surround yourself with matter.From sleeping in cricket changing rooms to save money in England, to working in trucking back home and embracing new technology, Ollie shares plenty of stories, laughs and practical advice for Kiwis looking to make the most of every opportunity.Follow ShedlifeNZ for more authentic Kiwi stories, business conversations and inspiring guests from across New Zealand.

New Zealand ring announcer MC Mike sits down with Jason Davis on the ShedlifeNZ Podcast to talk about the journey from combat sports fan to one of the busiest MCs on the NZ fight scene.MC Mike wasn't always behind the mic. He grew up loving fighting, training in combat sports, and living the lifestyle from the inside. But somewhere along the way he realised his voice and his passion for the game could take him somewhere and he backed himself.Since 2023 he has announced nearly 100 fight nights across New Zealand, working his way up through King of the Ring and events all over the country, getting up close to some of the biggest names in the NZ fight game including Israel Adesanya, Carlos Ulberg, Lani Daniels, Titus Proctor and Francis Waitai.In this episode MC Mike and Jason talk through what it actually takes to build yourself in combat sports, the energy inside a fight arena, where the NZ fight scene is heading, and why MC Mike believes the biggest nights are still in front of him.He has put in the reps. He knows the fighters. And the big stage is next.

Leon Holden joins the Shed Life Podcast for a proper rugby yarn about the journey from Hauraki North to coaching Waikato in the NPC.In this episode, Leon talks through his early days in club rugby, the people who shaped him, coaching in New Zealand, Japan and England, his time with London Wasps, the pressure of professional rugby, and why grassroots clubs still matter so much to the future of the game.Karl Johnston, Jason and Leon also dig into Waikato rugby, the importance of community, what makes good players and good coaches, and why rugby is about far more than just the 80 minutes on the field.

In this special Shed Life episode, Jason sits down inside Kaihere School with Ngaire Harris, a local education legend whose story began on a dairy farm and led to a lifetime of teaching, leadership, and service.From helping her younger brother with maths to ending up with around 100 kids at her house each week, Nairi’s path into teaching was anything but ordinary. What followed was more than 30 years in education, a deep commitment to young people, and a powerful belief in character, boundaries, hard work, and community.This conversation explores what it means to raise secure kids, build strong foundations, do the right thing even when it’s hard, and create schools where every child has the chance to become their best self.A brilliant conversation about education, parenting, resilience, community, and the power of good people working hard.

In this episode of ShedLife, Jason and KJ sit down with Shaun O'Neill, founder of Essential Talent, one of New Zealand’s leading keynote speaker agencies.Sean shares his journey from growing up in Timaru, sneaking away to listen to talkback radio in a tin shed, starting out in radio as a copywriter, and eventually building a business that works with some of New Zealand’s biggest names in sport, leadership, media, and entertainment.This conversation covers radio, business, reputation, manners, taking risks, backing yourself, and why doing things properly still matters. Sean also shares lessons from his late father, the importance of trust in business, and what it takes to go all in when there is no plan B.Music Credit:Exciting Trailer by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100494Artist: http://incompetech.com/

In this episode of ShedLife, Jason sits down with Dr Amy Marfell, CEO of Waikato Rugby, to talk about leadership, women in sport, junior rugby, sideline behaviour, and the future of the game in the Waikato.Amy shares her journey from academia and Sport Waikato into becoming the first female CEO of Waikato Rugby, and what it means to lead an organisation that stretches from junior rugby and community clubs right through to NPC and FPC pathways.They discuss the growth of women’s rugby, the success of Waikato’s FPC team, the importance of creating safe and inclusive sporting environments, and why the jersey means so much to the players who wear it.Amy also speaks strongly about sideline behaviour in junior sport, why abuse of referees, coaches and young players needs to stop, and how parents, coaches and supporters can help create better experiences for kids.This is a powerful conversation about rugby, leadership, community, resilience, and the role sport plays in shaping people.Follow Waikato Rugby:Website: mooloo.co.nzFollow Shed Life for more conversations with good people working hard.

In this episode of Shed Life, Jason sits down with Sheila Yama, the Papua New Guinea-born, Hamilton-based unbeaten boxer who is quickly rising through the professional ranks.Sheila shares her journey from growing up in a village in Papua New Guinea, training as a nurse, moving through the Cook Islands and New Zealand, and eventually finding her way into boxing. Now 7-0 as a professional and fresh off winning the IBF International Super Lightweight Title, Sheila talks about discipline, pressure, post-fight blues, life as a fighter, and what it takes to keep showing up when motivation disappears.

Billy Brown does not hold back.In this episode, Jason sits down with Billy for one of the most direct conversations we’ve had on ShedLifeNZ.They get into the New Zealand political landscape, Māori leadership, the elite of NZ, culture, identity, cost of living, and how they believe this country could do better.It is an honest chat that a lot of Kiwis will relate to.Some parts are uncomfortable, some parts are challenging, but that is exactly why conversations like this matter.Agree or disagree, Billy brings a perspective that will get people talking#newzealand #nz #aotearoa #maori #nzpolitics #politics #newzealandpolitics #costofliving #kiwi #culture #identity #business #economy #nzeconomy #leadership #podcast #podcasts #longformpodcast #youtube #spotify

In this episode of Shedlife NZ, we sit down with Brigitta Warren from RecruitNet to discuss the rapidly changing landscape of the job market. With AI changing how companies hire and how candidates search, navigating your career path requires a new set of rules.Brigitta shares her professional insights on what recruiters are actually looking for today, the common mistakes that get applications rejected instantly, and how you can leverage your unique skills to stand out in a digital-first world. Whether you are looking for a career change or trying to land your first role, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you get noticed.

KJ joins the podcast to share some of his most unforgettable moments from Seddon Park Cricket Stadium, including one of the most memorable matches ever played there.From New Zealand’s massive chase against Australia, Matthew Hayden’s incredible 185 not out, Brendan McCullum’s last-over heroics, and behind-the-scenes celebrations, KJ gives us a rare look at the stories most cricket fans never get to hear.He also talks about big mismatches, Trent Boult tearing through India, and how the rise of T20 cricket has changed the way the game is played.If you love New Zealand cricket, Seddon Park, or behind-the-scenes sporting stories, this episode is packed with gold.

In this episode of ShedLifeNZ, we sit down with Hiroshi to hear a deeply personal story shaped by one of history’s most devastating events.Hiroshi’s mother survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, but the impact did not end there. We explore how that experience has carried through generations, shaping identity, perspective, and the way he sees the world today.Jason also reflects on his time in Japan, the cultural differences he experienced, and the realisation that despite those differences, people are more alike than we think.This conversation is about more than history. It is about resilience, perspective, and what peace really means in today’s world.

What does it take to go from being a builder on the tools… to building and leading a nationwide construction business?In this episode of ShedlifeNZ, Jason Davis sits down with Reon Paterson — Master Franchisee of Smith & Sons New Zealand, who has spent over 30 years in the building industry, starting as an apprentice and working his way into leadership across a national network of builders.Reon shares his journey from hands-on builder to helping oversee and support 20+ Smith & Sons franchise owners across New Zealand, and what it really takes to transition from tradesman to business owner.

Concrete looks simple… until you’re the one doing it.Early starts. Tight deadlines. No room for error.Ken Pumpi from Prestige Concreting sits down with Jason to talk about what it’s really like working in the NZ construction game — the pressure behind the scenes, the standards you have to meet, and what it takes to build a name in the industry.From getting started to running jobs, this is a real look into concrete and the people behind it.If you’ve ever been on the tools, you’ll know exactly what he’s talking about.What’s the hardest job you’ve done on site?#constructionnz #concrete #tradie #shedlifenz #nzbusiness #buildingnz #podcastnz

Everyone talks about high performance — but how many people understand what it actually takes to build it?In this episode, we sit down with Andrew from Roar Coaching, a high performance mindset coach who takes us back to where it all began — starting out as a banker before completely shifting direction into coaching.Andrew shares how he made that transition, what drives him, and the lessons he’s learned working with high-level individuals including CEOs and even the Tongan netball team.We dive into mindset, habits, discipline, and what separates average from elite — not just in business, but in life.It’s an honest conversation about growth, pressure, and unlocking your potential.This is one worth listening to.

Everyone knows Beach Hop, but not everyone knows the man who founded it.In this episode, we sit down with Noddy Watts, founder of Beach Hop, to unpack the story behind New Zealand's biggest classic car event. From his early days at the NZ Post Office to building Hot Rods and running tours Route 66, Noddy has lived a life connected to the classic car culture and community.We dive into how Beach Hop started, how the New Zealand car scene has evolved, and what it takes to build an event that draws thousands every year. Noddy also shares stories from his time leading tours across America and working alongside some of the biggest names in the global car scene.That journey has led to moments like Barry Meguiar calling New Zealand the “Car Capital of the World” — a testament to what’s been built here.Listen to ShedlifeNZ for stories of good kiwis working hard.

In this episode, we sit down with master shed builder Paul Alderton to talk through his journey.From playing on cruise ships in the 90s with the band The Politicians, to farming in Australia and eventually building sheds in New Zealand, Paul’s had a diverse and eventful path.He takes us back to where it all started—how he learned his trade, where his passion for drumming came from, and the experiences that shaped his career along the way. We also touch on his decision to join the Freedom March during the COVID-19 lockdowns.Along the way, we share a few laughs and dive into some conspiracy theories we find interesting (all in good fun—we’re not endorsing any of them).ShedlifeNZ tells stories of good people working hard. New episodes every week at 4pm Thursday.

Ramin shares an incredible life story that spans revolutions, war, immigration, and building success from the ground up.Born in Iran shortly before the Islamic Revolution, Ramin grew up during a time of political upheaval, war with Iraq, and strict government control. He describes what life was like during those years, including the cultural changes, protests, and challenges faced by everyday people in Iran.

Why do men live four years less than women on average?In this episode of Shedlife we talk to mental health charity founder Craig Bulloch about mens mental health in New Zealand. His story and how it led to him starting this movement, how he got the black dog off his back and more...There's also plenty of fun chat about Craig playing international sports and competing in IronMan Challenges.So listen in for some good kiwi chats in the shed. ShedlifeNZ tells stories of good people working hard. New episodes every week at 4pm Thursday Follow @ShedlifeNZ for new clips every day and more interesting talks.

From writing a masters thesis on the rock concert experience to founding the Waikato's most popular business networking event.Daniel Hopper talks us through his journey and how he got to where he is today, how his love for music and community has shaped the way he approaches business and lessons it's taught him along the way.

How can you boost profit and reduce expenses in your business? Rob Bull talks to Jason about how to increase efficiency in the workplace, reduce waste and make the company happier all with simple tips and tricks that any business owner or employee can implement to help them with their business or in life in general. We bring it back to the start and bring it to present day so you get to know the backstory and why you should trust Rob and listen to his advice. ShedlifeNZ tells stories of good people working hard Follow @ShedlifeNZ for new clips every day and more interesting talks. Comment what your favourite story of the podcast was and who we should have on next.

What's it like inside the boxing game in New Zealand? From a life changing motorcycle crash, to fighting on the world stage, to coaching the next generation.Cairo George talks to us about overcoming challenges through life, building his way up from a local boxer to the world stage. Carrying the name of where he's from as the power behind his punches.We get into Cairo helping guide the next generation of boxers forward to those same world title aspirations and all the places it's taken him. As well as becoming the judge for the famous 1 minute scraps fight event and giving us a look into the behind the scenes.Cairo George takes us through it all the good, the bad and all the lessons learnt along the way. ShedlifeNZ tells stories of good people working hard.New episodes every week at 4pm Thursday.

What it's really like to be in the liquor game in NZ? Its not just expensive whiskey tastings theres ram raids, retail crime, and politics. Ash Parmar lets us in on what has been the reality of running multiple liquor stores on the ground and online. What's changing and how you keep ahead with ever changing pressures. Then we flip it. Ash isn't just a businessman, he's lost 17kg in the past year and has a 102km race in less than 3 weeks. We get into training, discipline, routines, temptation, and how to keep big goals going with the rest of life still happening. Ash also takes us back to the beginning, growing up in India and New Zealand, sharing the good times and some of the bad times and how it has shaped him into the man he is today. New episodes every week at 4pm Thursday. Follow @ShedlifeNZ for new clips every day and more interesting guests. Comment what your favourite story of the podcast was and who we should have on next.#Whiskey #Vodka #Gin #running #tasting #act #politics #nz #superliqour #eightPM

Today Mark and Jason take you for a ride through crazy stories of Bank robberies, World Records, BMX riding, Beekeeping Crazy and so much more.  In this episode you will hear about defying highs and lows of learning different trades, learning the hard lessons and moments that have shaped Mark into who he is today. The topics covered are vast with many of the Jobs he has done and the interesting people he has met along the way.   Watch the full episode on YouTube and listen on Spotify, Apple podcasts, IHeart radio and YouTube music.  Follow @ShedlifeNZ for more clips, interesting guests and new episodes every week.   Leave a comment on your favourite story or who you want to see on the podcast next.   #BMX #Bees #podcast #Worldrecord #tradie #Waikatosheds #Nobullsheds #NZ #Kiwi  

From TVNZ stardom and hanging out with UFC fighters Lil Henry has done a lot. Today he joins us for a chat and its a good one. Henry Stilwell (Lil henry) and Jason take it all the way back today talking about childhood up until present day. We get to hear about Lil henrys rise to TikTok Stardom (50k+ Followers) being on reality tv, competing at Special Olympics hanging out with UFC fighters and more. Find the full episode here and wherever you find your podcasts. Follow @shedlifenz for more content from other interesting guests. #ufc #podcast #kiwi #newzealand #specialolympics #franciswaitai #1minscraps

David Baker from Rapid QS joins ShedLifeNZ for a conversation that gets straight into the numbers behind building in New Zealand.David has built a following by breaking down council projects and back costing them to show what they really cost, and why pricing and accountability matter. In this episode, he sits down with Jason to talk about how he started making content, what he has learned from digging into public projects, and what most people misunderstand about construction costs and QS work.They also get into David’s personal story from childhood to adulthood, the period where he got into debt, how he worked his way out of it, and what building Rapid QS has taught him about discipline, consistency, and doing things properly over the long term.Watch on or listen on Youtube, Itunes and iHeartRadio. Search @shedlifenz.Comment what you want David to break down next.#construction #council #infrastructure #building #NewZealand

The ShedLifeNZ New Year Special is out now.This episode features Coach Shaun George, founder of Never Surrender Boxing, part of Team George Promotions, and the coach who has been in Francis “The Punisher” Waitai’s corner through his amateur and pro career. Shaun shares real insight into coaching, discipline, building a gym culture, and the ups and downs that come with life in and out of boxing, plus plenty of funny stories from the fight game and life in general.Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify and iHeartRadio. Search @shedlifenz.Let us know your favourite story from the episode.#boxing #FrancisWaitai #coach #ufc #training

Ben Presling joins ShedLifeNZ for a Christmas Special that feels like a catch up with an old mate.Jason and Ben go back to high school, so this episode covers a lot, from cars, drifting and the NZ car scene, to the early years when you are just figuring life out and doing things you probably would not post online today. There are plenty of laughs, but it is also a real look at how those early experiences shape who you become.Ben also talks about leaving school in sixth form, working at Mobil, doing door to door sales under Jason before heading to Japan, and what he saw over there, including a side of car culture most people only hear about.Watch the full episode on YouTube and Iheart radio Search @shedlifenz.Comment your favourite story from the episode, or what your first car was.

Tiger Woods at a NZ speedway, a beer after, and a story that ends with six holes walked together in Melbourne.In this episode of ShedLifeNZ, Jason Davis is joined by Karl “KJ” Johnston and Graeme “Mintie” Mead for a wide ranging chat about the moments that shape a life. Mintie shares how he ended up commentating Tiger Woods at the Huntly speedway, what Tiger was like off camera, and why that experience still sticks with him years later. From there, the conversation opens up into Mintie’s own journey, his values, and the kind of life lessons you only get from real experience.You will also hear stories about family, career curveballs, and the old school mindset of giving first if you want to receive, including the example set by Mintie’s father, and the humour that comes with a long life well lived.In this episode:• The Tiger Woods speedway story and what he was like in person• How a mate’s dad facing cancer got the chance to walk with Tiger in Melbourne• “If you do not give, how can you expect to receive” and where that comes from• Mintie’s father, service, resilience, and leadership by example• Wanting to be a lawyer, ending up as a Datsun mechanic• The three Karens story and how he met his wifeWatch and listen on Youtube, itunes and iHeartRadio. Search @shedlifenz on all platforms.

How does a kid from Thames end up as a world top 15 cruiserweight, living in camp with Sonny Bill Williams and Anthony Mundine and getting rounds in world title gyms in New York?In Episode 5 of ShedLifeNZ, Jason sits down with David Aloua, a New Zealand cruiserweight who represented Aotearoa at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, won multiple national amateur titles and picked up a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Amateur Boxing Championships before turning pro and claiming regional belts on his way into the top 15 rankings.Before the world rankings and title belts, Dave was a multi-code athlete, making the Dilworth First XV in Year 11 and winning a New Zealand wrestling title while still at school. He talks through those early years, the move to Thames, finding boxing, and how an apprenticeship on the tools sat alongside his climb through the amateur and pro ranks.Across a laid back long form chat at the Shedquarters bar, Jason and Dave cover life in camp around Sonny Bill and Mundine, getting flown to New York as a sparring partner and crossing paths with Gennady “Triple G” Golovkin, gym wars at City Boxing with the likes of Hemi Ahio, Junior Fa and Carlos Ulberg, and what the fight game taught him about resilience, identity and life after the ring.In this episode you will hear about:• Representing New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games and winning a Commonwealth Championships bronze• Climbing from local shows to regional titles and world top 15 rankings• Life in camp around Anthony Mundine, Sonny Bill Williams and world title contenders• Sparring for world title camps in New York and sharing gyms with Triple G• Heavy sparring at City Boxing and lessons from being around real punchers • Making Dilworth First XV in Year 11 and becoming a New Zealand wrestling champion• Stepping back from the sport, working as a tradie and building the next chapterWatch and listen to the full episode here and on Youtube and iHeartRadio.Search @shedlifenz for all socials on all platforms.Like, subscribe and drop a comment with who you want to see on the podcast next.#boxing #podcast #TripleG #fightlife #markhunt #ShedLifeNZ #nzpodcast #nzboxing #DavidAloua #SonnyBillWilliams #AnthonyMundine #GennadyGolovkin #fightlife #tradie #waikato #podcast #kiwi

Episode 4 of ShedLifeNZ features high performance business coach Bernard Powell, founder of Premier Business Academy and author of Sales = Survival, The Sales Success Playbook. Bernard has spent 20+ years building multimillion dollar brands and award winning teams in New Zealand, helping owners add serious sales growth and build cultures that actually win. Recorded at the Shedquarters bar at Waikato Sheds, this is a laid back Kiwi chat about designing the life and business you want, not just grinding in survival mode. Bernard and Jason get into success habits, high performance culture, and how to use your phone to create organic content instead of wasting cash on dead ads.In this episode you will hear about:Getting clear on what you want your life to look likeTurning success into a duty, not just a dreamSimple success habits and power actions that compound over timeShifting a business from survival mode to high performanceUsing your story and organic content to grow your brand without wasting cash on adsWatch the full episode on Youtube and listen on Spotify and iHeartRadio - Search @shedlifenz on all Platforms. Like, subscribe and drop a comment with who you want to see on the podcast next. #ShedLifeNZ #NZpodcast #mindset #businesspodcast #waikato #nz #podcast                     

Episode 3 of ShedLifeNZ features none other than Highlanders player and professional rugby prop Ayden Johnstone.We dive into his childhood in Hamilton, the journey to making the U20 Baby Blacks, moving to Dunedin, running out for the Highlanders, Travelling and playing around the world and what it means to wear the Waikato jersey and become a co captain. Ayden also shares where he is today in his career and the mindset that has carried him through the toughest parts of footy.Here you’ll be listening to a laid back chat about real life in New Zealand rugby, along with yarns about hard work, grit and chasing dreams. No Bull just real talk from one Kiwi to another.Watch the full episode and subscribe for more episodes featuring real stories from real Kiwis building their own legacies.Listen and Watch on Youtube and IheartRadio: @shedlifenzFollow our TikTok, Instagram and Facebook: @shedlifenz#podcast #shedlife #rugby #highlanders #waikato #u20wc #kiwilife #shedlifenz #mindset #grind #nzstories #chat #authentic #grassrootsrugby

Episode 2 of ShedLifeNZ kicks off with none other than the man who does it all: Karl Jhonson. We dive into his upbringing, key moments which have shaped his life, and the road that has lead to him being where he is today. Here you will be listening to a laid back chat about stories that have brought him closer with other people here and around the world along with chats about hard work, grit and chasing dreams. No Bull just real talk from one Kiwi to another.Watch the full episode and subscribe for more episodes featuring real stories from real kiwis building their own legacies.Listen and Watch on Youtube:  ⁨@shedlifenz⁩  Follow our TikTok, Instagram and Facebook:  @shedlifenz⁩  #podcast #Shedlifenz #keepersway #karljohnston #ruralnz #entrepreneur #kiwilife #shedlife #mindset #grind #business #authentic #nzstories #waikato #legends #chat