Shows
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 295: Welcome BackIt's been a little over two years since the last episode of Uncomfortable is OK went to air. Today it's officially back!
Apologies for the abrupt finish. Hopefully this episode helps to clear some of that up for those of you who are still listening.
Today Chris will talk through
- What was going on two years ago
- What's been happening since
- Why Uncomfotable is OK is back
- What it's going to look like going forward
Ema...2022-08-0224 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 119: Meet the MentorIf Chris Cooper has a superpower, it's the ability to make mistakes faster than anyone else. Fortunately, none have been fatal, and they can help OTHER entrepreneurs build happier lives. Chris brings a "big picture" perspective unmatched by anyone else in the industry. After thousands of hours spent one-on-one with business owners, hundreds of blog posts and more interviews than he can recall, Chris shares his best lessons learned from the trenches and peaks of mentoring hundreds of business owners worldwide. Today we talk through: Making Mistakes Getting into business Gr...2018-10-2938 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 102: Darryl Edwards Play is SeriousI'm very excited about this week's podcast episode with Darryl Edwards. After almost two decades working as a technologist in investment banking, Darryl transformed his health after adopting an ancestral model to well-being. Darryl now advises people on maintaining a healthy lifestyle – amidst the epidemic of obesity and other chronic lifestyle diseases. As the founder of the PRIMAL PLAY methodology, he makes activity fun, effective and engaging while getting individuals healthier, fitter and stronger in the process. He specialises in working with children from 4 to 94 - fitness for those who hate to exercise - as well as fo...2018-04-091h 13
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 101: Dave Hanley Unlocking CreativityThe podcast guest this week is Dave Hanley Dave has a varied career and is the current CEO of tomorrow. He has taken on some big challenges in life and in business. Dave is a real example of continuing to push into the discomfort and taking the exciting curious option. . Today we talk through a few topics, including; +Becoming uncomfortable with what he had to offer +Making complicated decisions + Unlocking creativity + The power of words + Embracing doubts + Deep learning + Why it's important to talk through crazy concepts + Using...2018-04-0252 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 100: Digby Scott doing new betterWowee episode #100 of the #podcast! . A great one for you this week with a return visit from @digbyscott who was one of the most popular guests last year. . Digby brings back his insight, leadership, humor, and all-round wisdom to mark this milestone. Today we chat through; + Doing new better + Exploring your curiosity + The difference between diverse and epistemic curiosity and why it pays to have both + Daily anchors, what are they and how do they help us + Focusing on progress not perfection + and of course getting UNCOMFORTABLE 2018-03-261h 09
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 99: Brandon Te MoananuiToday I'm chatting with an awesome young filmmaker from Wellington, Brandon Te Moananui. Brandon is involved in a lot of cool stuff but make sure that you head over and check out The Maori Side Steps. Brandon and I chat through some really interesting stuff today including; + Learning to love the struggle + Unleashing creative capacity + How good it is just to get on and do things + Why opening up to people and being honest with them is vital + Brandon shares some deep stuff about his background and...2018-03-191h 02
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 98: Pat Armitstead the Art of JoyToday on the podcast I'm chatting with Pat Armitstead about all things Joyful. Pat is a pioneer in the area of Joy as a transformational agent. Today we talk through. + Always wanting to be first + The compassionate self and humorous self + Playing pranks on patients + Interrupting patterns + Why Pat is OK with being back in the corridor + Informed adventure + Holding your ground emotionally + and of course getting UNCOMFORTABLE Guest: Pat Armitstead Joyology Facebook The Laughter Channel - Laughter Channel Facebook 2018-03-121h 20
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 97: Andy Proctor the science of happinessToday I'm chatting with Andy Proctor - positive psychology junkie about the science of HAPPINESS. Today we chat through; + How we define happiness + Challenging our natural strengths + Finding a purpose within the pain + Learning optimism + Figuring out that it's not personal and not permanent + asking what is the world searching for + and of course Getting UNCOMFORTABLE Guest: Andy Proctor More Happy Life - Instagram More Happy Life - Podcast More Happy Li...2018-03-0555 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 96: James CherrieThis week I'm chatting with BJJ black belt James Cherrie of Whangarei BJJ about life and martial arts including BJJ Some topics we cover are; + Taking joy in the little things + The strive for perfection even though it's not atainable + How to use habit to beat procrastination + Not being able to communicate in a foreign country + Why you should train while you're tired + Pushing yourself to the limits phhysically + Why you learn more when you lose + and of course, getting uncomfortable Guest: James Cherrie 2018-02-271h 02
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 95: Bill Kerr making the world a happier place through travel, exercise, mindfulness, and conversationSorry about the delay on getting this one up team, it's been tough dealing with technology today. I'm chatting today with Bill "Doc" Kerr. CEO and founder of Adventure Fit. A lifestyle brand aimed at making the world a better place through travel, adventure, exercise, mindfulness, and conversation. Join us today as we chat through; + Adventure + Travel + Redefining values + Working on your happiness + How you approach pain + Morning routines + Winning the day + Banning your Mum And of...2018-02-2050 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastBuild your support networkThis episode teaches you how to start building your uncomfortable support network to take on those tough challenges. Let us know how you get on? Host: Chris Desmond UIOK Instagram UIOK Facebook Chris Desmond Twiter Support the show on Patreon Jeremy Desmond Music2018-02-1607 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK: Live like a dogWe’ve had a dog for the past 3 months. Before getting Fox I was a bit reticent about having a dog with us full time as I was worried it would have some weird effects on my life. Well it has, but not in the ways that I was concerned about. I’d definitely smitten, and if you head over to the uncomfortable is OK Instagram page you’ll be able to see why with a few snaps from her there. It was definitely one of the best wedding vows that I made. She’s changed my life for...2018-02-0906 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 93: Soulaima GouraniThis week on the podcast I'm chatting with Soulaima Gourani all-round inspirational woman (businesswoman, leader, speaker, author, mother, wife, etc.) who has more awards and acknowledgements than you can shake a stick at. We talk through, defining our values, building and maintaining a network, living a life by design, balancing all that we do, and of course getting uncomfortable. Guest: Soulaima Gourani Website Host: Chris Desmond UIOK Instagram UIOK Facebook Chris Desmond Twiter Support the show on Patreon Jeremy De...2018-02-051h 17
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 92: Tom Ahern your mind mateToday's guest is Tommy Ahern. A young Aussie dude on a crusade to promote open an honest communication around out mental health. Tom shares his own journey with his mental health, where he has come from and where he is going including a shedload of practical tips that he has used in terms of what has helped him (and what hasn't). It's a deep conversation but also a hilarious one as Tommy has pretty great chat. Check out the stuff he is up to with the Mind Mate, as well as having a listen to AdventureFit Radio...2018-01-291h 14
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastThe advice I wish I had, Tyson FranklinTyson Franklin returns to the podcast with a mini episode about the advice he would have given to his 20 year old self just starting out in business in regards to taking on challenges. Guest: Tyson Franklin Website Host: Chris Desmond UIOK Instagram UIOK Facebook Chris Desmond Twiter Support the show on Patreon Jeremy Desmond Music2018-01-2606 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 91: Lisa Tamati Pushing the LimitsToday's guest is Lisa Tamati. An athlete, motivational speaker, author, and mindset coach (among other things). Lisa has competed in some of the most gruelling endurance races on the planet. She has gone deep into some dark places and has had to overcome some of her internal demons as well. She'll be the first to admit that her journey isn't over, but by golly she has learned a bit along the way. Thankfully she was gracious enough to share some time with me so i could pick her brain and hear a bit of her story. 2018-01-2244 min
Uncomfortable is OK Podcast12 simple challenges to get you out of your comfort zone in 201812 simple uncomfortable challenges to kick you out of your comfort zone in 2018 Host: Chris Desmond UIOK Facebook UIOK Insagram Twitter Music: Jeremy Desmond Music2018-01-1906 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 90: Finding stillness in a busy world - Float WellToday we’ve got a threeway conversation for you guys. I’m chatting with Sam and Kevin, a delightful Canadian couple calling Wellington home. They’ve started an awesome business called Float Well and I got a chance to head down for a float in one of their tanks last week. If you’ve never been I would definitely suggest it, it’s a very cool experience, the sensory deprivation is pretty awesome, I found that the first 40 minutes my mind was wandering around all over the place but the last 20 minutes everything became really still and I left feeling ve...2018-01-151h 26
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastBe your friend“Being your friend” is an idea that I’ve been trying to incorporate into my life over the past few years. When I first began to get out of my comfort zone again after being stuck in a rut it was pretty confronting and this was a skill that I needed to develop to help me with it. Getting out of our comfort zone is hard. We’re taking on something that usually we haven’t done before. Very rarely are we going to be good at it straight away, although there are always exceptions to that rule. I do...2018-01-0505 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 88: Dr Greg Emerson Constantly EvolvingWe’ve got a special treat today for you. Dr Greg Emerson is back on the podcast to kick things off for the year. Greg appeared back in episode which was one of the most downloaded episodes last year, for very good reason, he is super knowledgeable about health, but also is very open about his own tough times. Today Greg and I chat through a variety of topics. + Reshaping his life + Nutrition and intermittent fasting + Learning to fly fish and trying not to get eaten by bears + Mental hea...2018-01-011h 17
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 87: Five Uncomfortable lessons 2017Thanks to everyone that has been a part of the Uncomfortable is OK community this year. It's been amazing to have all your support. Here are 5 of the big uncomfortable moments of my year and the lessons I've taken away from them. 1) Traveling to Japan and looking at things through different perspectives 2) Stopping drinking and getting better at sitting with the uncomfortable 3)Jumping out of a plane and trusting the process 4) Running an ultra marathon and finding out what you can accomplish if you can convince your mind that...2017-12-2532 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 86: Cam CalkoenI’m joined today by Cam Calkoen. Cam is very inspiring guy who is no stranger to getting uncomfortable. Cam was born with Cerebral Palsy and told his biggest challenges would be the way he walked and talked. Cam didn’t buy in to this story and became a professional runner and a professional speaker. As a 19 year old he raised NZ$4 million to build a community resource centre and at 22 established the carabiner mentoring program. These are a few of Cam’s achievements, but they’re just the end product of one of his life philosophies of doing. 2017-12-181h 15
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 85: Steph Gaudreau becoming harder to killToday’s guest is Steph Gaudreau, founder of Stupid Easy Paleo, host of harder to kill radio. Steph is incredible – not the least because her mission statement is to help people unleash their inner badass so they can change the world. I first met Steph at the ancestral health symposium in New Zealand earlier this year. Her presentation on Unhustling struck a chord with me so thankfully for you guys I got uncomfortable and went up to chat with her afterwards. I got to go in depth with Steph on a whole lot of topics today, including 2017-12-111h 45
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastHow resting helps you get out of your comfort zone Training ourselves to be comfortable getting uncomfortable is super important in order for us to lead a fulfilling life. To do this we need to consistently expose ourselves to progressively more uncomfortable situations. Exposure to these situations creates a stress on our body which if use correctly can lead to a state of OPTIMAL ANXIETY. It stimulates our individual growth and increase in our capacity. However being under stress constantly isn’t good for us. We also need to be able to switch that stress off. Rest is an important part of that equation. Uncomfortable is OK isn...2017-12-0806 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 84: Bailey McCormack unleashing your inner performerThis week on the #podcast I'm speaking with with Bailey McCormack, a.k.a @fanciforiafoxglove . Bailey is a whole lot of things but above all she is a performer, in her pursuits and in life in general. Fanciforia Foxglove is who she steps into as one of New Zealand’s most experienced Burlesque performers. I’m sure the idea of performing burlesque makes a few of you uncomfortable, Bailey thrives on the challenge, and does so despite having already had a hip replacement, and she is all of the tender age of 30. Today we chat about + burl...2017-12-041h 09
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 83: Irma Schutte - It's always awkward until it becomes elegantToday I’m chatting with Irma Schutte a holistic anxiety coach. This doesn’t mean that she teaches you how to be anxious holistically, but rather a holistic treatment approach to anxiety. Irma has had her own battles with anxiety, including trying to numb herself completely with substances, leading her to the point where she was faced with the choice to keep going, or to give up. Thankfully Irma chose to keep going and shares her experiences with me today. It’s a very vulnerable, raw chat, and Irma is really open about the experiences she has been through, with h...2017-11-271h 25
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 82: Lucy O'Connor re-think, re-define, re-inventToday I’m chatting with Lucy O’Connor the creative mind behind Monday Hustle. This is Lucy’s second appearance on the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. Long time listeners of the show will remember Lucy from way back in episode 18 from over a year ago. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to that yet make sure you go back and get into it because we really dig into Lucy’s backstory. A whole heap has happened since then. Including a tough run with her Achilles tendon, two ruptures and an infection that was slow to heal. This has f...2017-11-2056 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastWhat is your comfort zone?What is your comfort zone? Each of us has a comfort zone. Mine is different to yours, yours is different to your neighbours. In fact no two people will have the exact same comfort zone. The interesting thing is that our comfort zones will change over time based on our thoughts, actions, experiences, and skillsets. You would expect that over time your comfort zone will expand as you participate in more experiences, however the opposite can be true if we continually have the same experiences our comfort zone can regress or shrink if we aren’t training it...2017-11-1708 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 81: Renee Kiri - When the mind wants to, but the body can't keep upToday’s I’m chatting with a brave young woman, Renee Kiri from Wellington. Renee has been through a significant amount and is currently waiting on her 5th brain surgery. She is telling her story and what she has learnt through this. I was pretty stoked that I got to speak with her about it. Some of the things that we converse about are; + going through identity shifts + being proud of yourself + building trust in yourself + the concept of self love to get your through tough times + and...2017-11-131h 04
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 80: Leslie HarringtonToday I’m chatting with Leslie Harrington. You’ll notice that Leslie doesn’t have a typical Kiwi accent. We’ll discuss why at the start of the show. Leslie was introduced to me by Eric Hodgon who you’ll remember from episode 74 of the podcast where we had a deep conversation about recovery from trauma. Leslie herself is no stranger to trauma, she lost a half-brother to suicide, her highschool sweetheart in a car accident, and her parents to disease. It’s been a tough road at times but Leslie has worked through the uncomfortable, those that have been listeni...2017-11-0657 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 79: Shut Up And DanceToday I’m chatting with the ladies from Shut Up and Dance. Abby, Lesa and Clair kicked off Shut up and Dance in Wellington back last year and since then it’s gone from strength to strength. They teach dance routines inspired by music videos and films. Abby and Lesa roped Clair into teaching them Beyoncé’s single ladies dance than things have exploded from there. These ladies consistently get uncomfortable through growing a business, dancing up a storm and the amount of support and the way they interplay with each other is amazing to behold. If you’ve ever want...2017-10-3043 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 78: Tyson Franklin - sharing secretsToday’s guest is Tyson Franklin. Tyson loves a good challenge, whether that is building businesses, writing books, doing a 365 day mental and physical challenge, or hosting a podcast, he does a bit of everything. I first came across Tyson last year on his 365 hour mental and physical challenge when he listened to and reviewed a couple of my podcasts – much appreciated mate. He has since stared his own podcast – "It’s No Secret with Dr T" all about earning more, working less, and enjoying what you do each day Today we cover + Being 6 foot tall and...2017-10-231h 14
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 77: Justine Hamill. How I want my life to beSupport the show on Patreon Today’s guest is Justine Hamill, co-owner and studio manager of Power Living Yoga NZ. Gestalt trained psychotherapist, mum of three, wife, vocalist, and No Beers Who Cares Ambassador. In fact I first met Justine in person at a No Beers Who Cares event in Wellington. No Beers? Who Cares! is an organization all about shifting attitudes around how and why we drink, and showing people that you can have a freaking good time without alcohol. Today I’m chatting with Justine about; +drinking +yoga +st...2017-10-161h 06
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 76: Spike Edwards Safety is DangerousToday’s guest is Spike Edwards. Spike is a behavioural based safety expert originally from Australia but currently residing in New Zealand. Spike has worked in multiple different countries including, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Brazil, Singapore, China, Denmark and the USA. He also worked for the Australian army and spent time in working in the SAS. Oh and he is about to be a TEDx speaker. All of this has given Spike great insight into teamwork, creating shared values in a group or business, building relationships, risk management as well as getting uncomfortable. I really enjoy Spike’s ta...2017-10-091h 10
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 75: Grant "Axe" RawlinsonToday I chat with Grant Rawlinson, better known as Axe. Axe is what you would define as an adventurer, specifically a human powered adventurer. He has taken part in multiple human powered adventures, from Getting from the Summit of Mount Ruapehu to the summit of Mount Cook in three weeks. Climbing Mount Everest, twice among many others. His current adventure is called rowing from home to home, where he is rowing from his home in Singapore, to his birthplace of New Zealand, with a significant cycle through Australia on the way. His stories of adventure are epic...2017-10-021h 25
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 74: Eric Hodgdon losing someone else doesn't mean you have to lose yourself Welcome or welcome back to the uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond and this is the show where I chat with fascinating people who have faced down the Uncomfortable. We hear their stories and jump into the strategies they’ve used for getting uncomfortable. Over the last couple of week’s I’ve appeared as a guest on a couple of other podcasts, The Willosophy podcast, and It’s no secret with Dr T. It’s been an interesting and uncomfortable experience being on the other side of the microphone and having questi...2017-09-251h 20
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 73: Traver Boehm, Zero Fucks LivingThis episode's guest is Traver Boehm. I first came across Traver on the Man Talks podcast and was enthralled with his conversation. Traver has always felt the call of adventure, whether that is surfing big waves, climbing mountains, or fighting in a cage. Every life has its ups and downs and Traver's was no different. He got to a point where he admits he thought he had it all, the wife, the business, the dog. All of a sudden Traver's life changed. He was overcome with pain. It was time to sit with this pain a...2017-09-181h 36
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 72: Clive NeesonToday's guest is Clive Neeson, Director of "Last Paradise". Last Paradise is is the lifetime work of Clive Neeson, a physicist, adventurer, technology innovator and inspirational speaker. Clive grew up on safari in East Africa as his parents filmed wild animals during the 1950’s. In New Zealand and Australia, he joined a group of young mavericks who would become the pioneers of today’s extreme sports. Last Paradise is a 45 year journey gives the audience an insight to how much the world has changed in one lifetime so they can get a first hand vision of what “norma...2017-09-111h 18
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 71: Anna Guenther helping kiwis fund the things they care aboutToday I chat with Anna Guenther the Chief Bubble blower from PledgeMe. PledgeMe is a crowdfunding platform which helps Kiwi's fund the things they care about. They have run over 1000 successful campaigns and helped raise over $15 million dollars. We chat through the origin story of PledgeMe and Anna's story in getting to the point. Other topics we cover are: + Naievity in the beginning of projects and how it is important + Finding validation points + Shifting the goalposts when you need to + The difference between good and...2017-09-0445 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 70: Will FlemingThis week I got to chat with an awesome dude. He is a Rad Dad, and a Willosopher. That's right it was content creator Will Fleming. I've been wanting to chat with him for a while, ever since I first listened to him on the "My Kiwi Life" podcast. It's a little weird when you get to talk with someone that you've been listening to for a while because you think that you know them without ever having met them. We managed to get over that hurdle pretty quickly though. Will and I spend some...2017-08-281h 07
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 69: Lucy RevillToday I’m chatting with Lucy Revill creative genius behind The Residents. The Residents showcases the best of Welly, people, places, and products. Lucy is a born and bred Wellingtonian with massive love for this city and a beautiful platform. Lucy this year was the winner of Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian Award, she is the finalist in the New Zealand Social Media Awards, just hosted a Wellington on a Plate event an now to cap it off she has realised her dream of being a podcast guest on the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. Today’s chat covers; +...2017-08-211h 04
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 68: Digby ScottThis week sees me having a chat with Digby Scott over a cup of tea and piece of cake. Among other things Digby is a leadership development thinker and practitioner. He specialises in accelerating the next generation of restless go-getters, which he’ll tell us about in the chat. Digby is all about finding your edge, the point where capability meets uncertainty in all aspects of life. Some of the topics we cover today include; + Being scared of the Ocean and the process of getting over that to the point the Ocean is now his mi...2017-08-141h 12
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 67: Joel BouzaidThis week I chat with Joel Bouzaid. Joel is a business owner, a father, a leadership coach and speaker. Joel is one of the co-founders of “Against the Grains” which takes people on an adventure to help them create a life by design. He is one of the owners of Maia Crossfit where they aim to foster personal change through fitness. He speaks frequently throughout the country and is just an all-round good dude. Joel was introduced to me by a mutual friend, Pete Halsted – cheers Pete. When I rocked up to chat with Joel I knew it was...2017-08-071h 05
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 66: Ben Logan The Power of PreparationThis week we’ve got Ben Logan of New Age Primal back on the show. Ben was a guest a couple of months ago back in episode 59. We talked about his background and what he is doing with New Age Primal now. Make sure to go back and check it out to get an insight into Ben. Today’s chat is focused on everyday survival, why it’s important and how we can train it. Ben was also gracious enough to introduce me to his good mate, Dr Greg Emmerson who appeared back on the show in episode 62 for anothe...2017-07-311h 19
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 65: Art GreenToday’s guest is Art Green who is a great proponent of getting uncomfortable. Some of you may know him from that guy from that show, some of you may know him as the dude with great teeth, great hair, and great abs. Some of you may know him as a businessman or company director, or some as an advocate for health. Art loves a challenge and as a result has a wealth of experience to share. Some of the topics we cover today are; + Feeling the need to fit in to having a real job...2017-07-241h 09
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 64: Alex Hare - Why you should always make your bedAlex Hare is a force. Being around her you just pick up her vibe of "unforgiving optimism" it's contagious. Alex has done some pretty awesome things professionally as a young female in the oil and gas industry, the construction industry, and the engineering industry. This hasn't always been easy often being the minority in the room, the only scientist, the only young person, and the only female. She has also experienced the emotional ups and downs that we do in our 20's and has learnt a lot about herself from them. Alex has had a de...2017-07-171h 16
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 63: Perry NewburnToday I get to chat with Perry Newburn. We talk about his upcoming world record attempt to run the length of New Zealand in 17 days. We also chat about his run across the United States to celebrate his 60th birthday. Topics covered today include; + Overcoming a 16 year heroin addiction + Asking the question "do I want to live or do I want to die" + Rebuilding physically, mentally, and emotionally + Learning to laugh at yourself +Learning you don't have to be perfect + The journey into running + Why exercise if great for your mental...2017-07-101h 13
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 62: Dr Greg Emerson - Riding in the saddle and not in the armchairToday's chat is with Dr Greg Emerson. Greg is a physician who seeks out the cause. He trained as an emergency physician and has run large emergency rooms in Canada and Australia. He became disenchanted with only treating the symptoms of illness rather than treating the root cause and optimising health. Today we talk through Greg's 7 principles of health. Other topics we cover are; Chasing after achievement for achievement's sake, and where that leads. Reshaping our own world views. Building skills to improve resilience. Society's current addiction to comfort...2017-07-031h 26
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 61: Jerram WattsThis week I chat with Jerram Watts, CEO of Child Rescue in New Zealand. Child Rescue is part of Destiny Rescue which is a charitable organisation that rescues, restores, protects, and empowers children caught up in the sex trade. To date they have rescued and rehabilitated 2300 children with the goal of 100,000 children by 2020. Jerram tells us his story about how he came to work for Child Rescue, the work that they do, as well as his story. Today's topics cover; Rescuing children from the sex trade Shifting careers 2017-06-261h 12
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 60: Lynn "Red" Paterson return of the kayaking nomadLynn "Red" Paterson is back on the podcast. I first caught up with her back on episode 24 as she was somewhere of Taranaki in her mission to kayak around New Zealand. I wanted to catch up with her again to hear how the rest of her journey went, as well as finding out what she had learnt about herself and being uncomfortable with the benefit of some time after finishing. Red tells a great story and the conversation didn't disappoint and left me with some cool insights. We talk about that instead of t...2017-06-191h 09
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 59: The Art of Survival with Ben LoganThis week’s guest is Ben Logan who I got to have a Skype conversation with last weekend. Ben is a former pro triathlete representing New Zealand. He stopped the competitive triathlon circuit a few years ago and moved from Auckland down to Central Otago when he felt the call of the wilderness. Since he has been down there he has teamed up with Dr Greg Emerson to start up a company called New Age Primal. New Age Primal is about teaching people the unique mindset skills to thrive in life through practical survival courses. I’ll definitely be head...2017-06-121h 17
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 58: Leaving a legacy I can be proud of with Thomas MaharajA couple of months ago I had the good fortune of striking up a conversation while waiting in line to get into a conference. The guy that I was talking to was called Tommie Maharaj and he pointed my in the direction of Noa Woolloof as someone to have a podcast conversation with. That went well and Noa and I had a chat back in episode 52 of the podcast. Noa also told me that I needed to get Tommie on the show to share his inspiring story. Tommie and I managed to have a chat and create...2017-06-051h 10
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 57: Kathy TraceyLast weekend I got a chance to go and share a cup of tea, a Pain Au Raison, and an awesome conversation with Kathy Tracey. I’d been pointed in Kathy’s direction by Liv Spencer-Bower, world champion canoe polo athlete who appeared back in episode 26 of the podcast. Kathy came to speak with the team as they were prepping for the world champs and by all accounts was insightful, inspirational and not afraid of the uncomfortable. The conversation I got to have with her didn’t disappoint. Kathy’s whole life has been interspersed with times and activities that hav...2017-05-291h 18
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 56: Travelling the world and finding new passion with Stephen McDowell "The Buzzy Kiwi"I had the pleasure of having a conversation with a young Kiwi dude currently residing in L.A. His name is Stephen McDowell, or better known on social media as “The Buzzy Kiwi”. Stephen’s plan for his life hit a bump a couple of years back. Just out of uni and working as a self-employed personal trainer an old rugby injury came back to haunt him. Undergoing what he thought was a routine surgery, he woke up to the news that the cartilage in his hip had started dying and he was experiencing arthritic changes. Instead of being back a...2017-05-221h 12
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 55: Environmentally friendly surfing with Jack CandlishI catch up with Jack Candlish in his studio in Berhampore to chat about Organic Dynamic and his journey. Being one paper shy of finishing his degre for he past 7 years. Building the beginnings of a business out of his parents garage. Trying out a whole lot of hings to figure out what he was into. Reiterating 12 ifferent surfboard designs in 18 months. Jack gives us his perspectives on coupling advice and experience when doing things, training your brain. Organic Dynamic is an awesome unique approach to making surfboards, and Jack is calling on...2017-05-151h 06
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 54: Running in the family with the O'SullivansToday I got to sit down with a father/daughter combination. 5 years ago Mark O'Sullivan was overweight and unfit. He made a decision to change that and set an example for his young family. Mark's first Park Run was more of a walk/run, but 5 years down the track he's shed 30kgs, developed a passion for running and sets an awesome example for his kids. He's also graduated from the Park Run's to running ultra-marathons at a multitude of sites around New Zealand. Jess is 13 years old and ran her first 50km ultra-marathon last year...2017-05-0853 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 53: Running into the dark with Fraser RossI sit down to chat with Fraser Ross. Pacific purveyor of alt-folk music. His website proclaims a loud shirted presence which I can attest to, however the chat isn't always loud and rambunctious. Fraser chats to us about his introduction to music and song writing. He opens up about the struggles he faced trying to take his music out of the bedroom and put it on stage. We chat about his stage terrors, and why with such a strong reaction he kept coming back to performing. We talk the evolution of his music, and the creation of...2017-05-011h 15
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 52: Breaking Stereotypes with Noa WoolloffOn this week's podcast I'm talking to Noa Woolloff about breaking stereotypes. Noa became the head boy of his high school and became a dad in the same year. We talk the stigma around being a young parent and how Noa is challenging that and helping other young parents through his social enterprise Increase Clothing NZ. Noa is a passionate dude and he turns the tables on me a couple of times and starts asking the questions. His excitement about life is contagious and it's a real fun conversation. If you like what you hear...2017-04-2449 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 49: Changing Mental Health Education with Lucy McSweeney Today is Episode 49 and I'm chatting with Lucy McSweeney. Lucy is an intelligent, eloquent young woman and today we talk about mental health education in New Zealand. Lucy has her own mental health story which she shares on the podcast. She has seen from her experience gaps in the education provided to young people about their mental health. Lucy has started a petition to make mental health education compulsory in New Zealand schools. We talk what the drivers of the petition are, what she hopes to achieve from it, how we can make education better, r...2017-04-031h 00
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 48: The enjoyment of pivoting with Rebecca StewartToday is episode 48 and I’m chatting with Rebecca Stewart the General Manager and co-founder of Pomegranate Kitchen. Pomegranate kitchen is a Wellington based Social Enterprise and registered charity. They provide group catering and individual lunch delivery to Wellingtonians. Their food is fresh, fun interesting and healthy. But probably the most fascinating point is that it’s influenced by a variety of different cultures, the reason for this is that all the cooks are from a refugee background. Rebecca and I discuss how the concept for Pomegranate came about, how the journey so far has been, and as a...2017-03-2755 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 47: Plastic free Philippines with Anna DawsonToday is episode 47 and I’m chatting with Anna Dawson. Anna has just finished a three month long cycle the length of the Philippines, for her quest, Plastic Free Philippines. Besides cycling this also involved local clean ups, education sessions, and getting communities involved. Today I chat with Anna about this trip, about that time she sailed from New Zealand to the Philippines, and about figuring out what her purpose is on this planet. We talk about her happiness with simplicity, becoming a Mum, following those little thoughts that tell you to do something and th...2017-03-2057 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 46: Cape Reinga to Bluff on a bike with Craig HarperToday is episode 46 and I’m chatting with Craig Harper. I’m fascinated by human capability and when I was at a birthday party last weekend and Craig and his latest accomplishment came up in conversation, I said to my wife, “He would be awesome to talk to”. Thankfully he responded when I flicked him a message and we managed to have a chat a couple of days ago. Craig has just broken the record for riding a bike from Cape Reinga to Bluff, here in New Zealand. For the Kiwi’s you’ll understand what that means in terms of geo...2017-03-1351 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 45: Playing the infinite game with Bart De VriesToday is episode 45 and I’m chatting with Bart De Vries. Bart and I have known each other slightly through for a wee while now so I’ve been able to follow along with some of the stuff he has been up to on social media. I’ve always been fascinated by his path so I was pretty stoked to be able to record a chat with him. It is a shorter conversation than what it could have been, traffic was atrocious when I was trying to get to him, and Bart was off the next day to help out wi...2017-03-0642 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 44: The transition out of professional sport with Ged RobinsonThis is episode 44 and today's guest is Ged Robinson. Ged has been a professional rugby player over the past decade. You might have seen him turn out in Super Rugby for the Hurricanes, The Rebels, the Highlanders, and the Crusaders. Ged is transitioning away from professional rugby and moving on to new ventures. It isn't an easy transition and Ged was gracious enough to speak with me about his experiences. We also talk about how it felt when he signed his first contract, how having a growth mindset has helped in his career and life, w...2017-02-2731 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 43: Don't be afraid of the random walk with Dr Sarb JohalToday is episode 43 and I’m chatting with Dr Sarb Johal. Sarb is a clinical psychologist and health psychologist. He holds two doctoral degrees. One from the University of Cardiff and one from the University of London. Sarb is also the Associate professor in Disaster Mental Health at Massey University. He has over 20 years’ experience working as a psychologist in various realms. Sarb is also into a whole lot of other things but today we focus mainly on the psychology aspects so I’ll have to get him back again to chat about all the other stuff. I firs...2017-02-201h 12
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 42: May Contain Sex Scenes with Sabrina MartinWelcome to the Uncomfortable is OK podcast, I’m your host Chris Desmond. Today is episode 42 and I’m having a conversation with Sabrina Martin. Today’s show with Sabrina. It was a bit of good fortune that we got to chat, I was in the process of organising a chat with a future guest of the podcast who pointed me in Sabrina’s direction and told me that she would be a great fit for the show. Sabrina is a performance artist based here in Wellington. She is about to put on a show in the Fringe f...2017-02-131h 15
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 41: Warning, no swimming at Wellington's beachesToday's episode is a bit different. The interview I had scheduled this week fell through and I didn't have any others in the bank. I wasn't even sure I'd put out an episode. Until I read this article warning-no-swimming-wellingtons-beaches-weekend. It made me pretty frustrated at the attitude taken to this situation. It also reinforced how much we should be caring for our country and asking questions of those in power about how they are caring for it. With that in mind, I've taken some excerpts from an episode I did earlier last year with my...2017-02-0636 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 40: Don't get drunk and start a charity with Marie Fitzpatrick and Nic MurrayToday’s guests are Marie Fitzpatrick and Nic Murray from Good Bitches Baking. About two years ago they decide to try and make the world a little less shitty by baking treats for people having a tough time, and Good Bitches Baking was born, they’ve grown from what they initially envisioned as a couple of people in Wellington helping out to having over 1000 volunteers across many parts of New Zealand and it really has been the case of having the tiger by the tail for most of the time. If you hadn’t realised from the charit...2017-01-3050 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 39: Cool Bits #2Because of the awesomness off the guests which have been on the show so far, and the enjoyment of last week's episode there is a second installment of a cool bits. In this episode's potpourri of excerpts we have Shiffy Lal, Dave Woolfe, Erin Todd, Elizabeth Connor, Katie Smith, Megha Jolly, Angela McCamish, and Alex Asher. Thanks to these guys for sharing their time with us, and thanks to you guys for tuning in. Host: Chris Desmond Facebook Instagram Twitter uncomfortableisok@gmail.com2017-01-2336 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 38: Cool BitsHey all Today's episode is a bit different. I've created a smorgasbord of audio bites from a whole raft of different conversations that I've had since the podcast began. Some are short, some are longer but all are insightful and I think add something to the Uncomfortable is OK message. If you like part of what you hear and haven't listened to the full episode yet, make sure you head back to do that. Thanks for getting uncomfortable with me today Host: Chris Desmond Facebook I...2017-01-161h 07
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 37: Irene Wakefield, everything starts with youKonnichi Wa everyone. You’re tuning in to the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond. I’m just back in New Zealand this week after a very cool trip to Hong Kong and Japan, and getting in to the swing of things again. I met some cool people, saw some pretty impressive things, and had a few uncomfortable experiences myself which I’ll tell you more about next week. In today’s episode I have the privilege of sitting down to a conversation with Irene Wakefield, co-founder of PrePair NZ. Through PrePair NZ...2017-01-0950 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 36: Outdoor Adventures are Awesome with David WoolfeWelcome to the Uncomfortable is OK podcast I’m your host Chris Desmond. Happy 2017 guys, I hope that it’s started awesomely for you all! I’m kicking it in Japan at the moment. This is the first podcast of the year, episode number 36 and I’m chatting with Dave Woolfe. Dave and I were at high school in Hawkes Bay together and now he runs a business called Everyone’s Adventure. This isn’t your typical business model. Everyone’s Adventure has set a financial target to meet for the summer and once they have hit that, outdoor...2017-01-0253 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 35: Double-edged Sword with Simonne ButlerHey there, welcome to the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond. I hope everyone had a great celebration of Christmas. This is the podcast all about getting out of your comfort zone. Sometimes we do that through people telling us how they’ve got out of their comfort zone, sometimes its through having conversations about uncomfortable topics. Today has some of both for us. I had the honour of being able to have a conversation with Simonne Butler. Simonne’s name may be familiar to some of you listening. She is the survivor of a brutal...2016-12-2653 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 34: Delivering the message of change with Marianne ElliottHello and welcome to the Uncomfortable is OK podcast I’m your host Chris Desmond. This is the show where we chat to interesting people about getting out of their comfort zones. We see cool people doing cool things and think wow that’s cool, but we don’t talk as much about the challenges these people faced to get there, or the times that they had to push out of their comfort zones to get this good stuff done. These people inspire me to keep pushing out of my comfort zone and to try and be OK with challe...2016-12-1942 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 33: Just bloody doing it, with Rosie MorrisonThis week I have the privilege of sitting down for a chat with Rosie Morrison. Rosie was introduced to me through her brother Nick who appeared back in episode 19, if you haven’t taken the time yet make sure you check that one out. The conversation I have with Rosie hits a variety of experiences. At its heart it is a conversation about following your curiosity, exploring the world and yourself, trying new things, and just bloody doing it. Rosie has fascinating stories about getting robbed in Mexico, buying and selling Kombi Vans in Central Am...2016-12-121h 09
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 32: Life at the geographic South Pole with Hamish WrightIn this week's episode we chat with Dr Hamish Wright. Hamish is a New Zealand trained Doctor who had a dream of getting down to Antarctica. He didn't just want to visit, he wanted to work there. Hamish set about figuring out how to do this. He got knocked back a few times initially but then was appointed as one of the Doctors at the Amundsen-Scott Station, at the South pole, the most Southern place on earth. We get a bit of an insight into Hamish's time down at the station, some of the challenges h...2016-12-0553 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 31: Not taking your socks off for 4 days/Suffering is OK with Richard McChesneyWelcome to the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond and today is episode 31. The podcast has been going long enough now that we are starting to get some return guests happening. Today’s conversation is with Richard McChesney, long distance racewalker. Some of you will remember Richard from episode 17 where we had a chat about long distance racewalking, walking round the M25, and walking 100mile races. If you haven’t had a listen to that I suggest you go back and catch it. Richard and I have been chatting over the past few months...2016-11-281h 34
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 30: Everything is hard - but hard is fun with Katie SmithToday I’m hanging out with Katie Smith from the Ritual Tea Company. Ritual Tea Company is an organic fair trade company based out of Wellington New Zealand. Katie hand blends the tea and herbal infusions to help people bring the ritual of tea into their days. Today we talk about how Katie went from measuring barcodes in Sydney to importing tea and running her own company. We chat through some of the lessons that she has learnt along the way. How a bit of naivety in the beginning can be a good thing, that it is im...2016-11-2142 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 29: Putting on a front with Megha JollyWhen your baby is born you can’t help but love it right? Turns out this isn’t always the case. Most people have heard of the post baby blues, but postnatal depression can affect up to 1 in 7 women after childbirth. Unlike the baby blues this isn’t something that goes away on its own relatively quickly. It can last for many weeks or months. Postnatal depression can affect any woman—women with easy pregnancies or problem pregnancies, first-time mothers and mothers with one or more children, women who are married and women who are not, and regardless of income, a...2016-11-1442 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 28: Helping others helps us, with Hannah RutherfordThis is the Uncomfortable is OK podcast and I’m your host Chris Desmond. Today is episode 28 and I’m chatting with Hannah Rutherford. Hannah is a physio in Sydney who I’ve known for a few years. Earlier this year she left Sydney to go and work with Mercy ships. Hannah goes into more depth but basically living in a massive floating hospital off Madagascar, along with a whole lot of other staff helping out the locals with healthcare services. This is a cool conversation about getting uncomfortable and wondering if you have the expertise to do wha...2016-11-0742 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 26: Line, Content, and Moment with Olivia Spencer-BowerI was introduced to Olivia by Hollie Woodhouse who I talked to back in episode 23. Olivia is a recent world champion. She and the rest of the New Zealand Senior women’s canoe polo team – the Paddleferns took out the world champs in Italy. It’s an awesome achievement that as a kiwi I’m pretty proud of. Liv talks us through the challenges of the tournament, and what changed from the last few world champs where the girls had finished up fourth repeatedly. Not only is Liv a world champion athlete but she also runs her own busi...2016-10-241h 07
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 25: Timelapse through the projectToday's episode is something a bit different. Some of you may know I've been working on my Masters degree. The project is due this Friday and over the last 6 and a half weeks I've been doing a bit of an audio diary about how I am holding up mental, emotionally, and physically as the process progresses. Have a listen to see a bit of the evolution of the last 6 weeks for me and let me know what you think. Chris Desmond Facebook Instagram Twitter2016-10-1727 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 24: Lynn Paterson the Kayaking GypsyToday is Episode 24 and I’m chatting with Lynn Paterson A.K.A Red. I’m deep in my Masters project at the moment, two weeks to go, which is its own kind of uncomfortable. It was nice to take to take a bit of time to live some adventures vicariously through Lynn. Lynn had a spark of an idea sitting in her head for years which slowly built to setting off on an epic journey on my birthday last year. Lynn’s idea and the journey she is coming up on finishing is to kayak around New Ze...2016-10-101h 11
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 23: Saying yes to Adventure with Hollie WoodhouseToday I'm chatting with Hollie Woodhouse @theadventurouskiwi. We talk massive running adventures through the desert and through the jungle. We chat about raising money to support the rangers in Africa helping protect the animals from poachers. We chat about creating an amazing adventure magazine (with a little help from Mum). Mostly we talk about searching out adventures and challenges. Enjoy getting uncomfortable with us today. Guest: Hollie Woodhouse holliewoodhouse.com For Rangers Say Yes To Adventure Magazine Host: Chris Desmond Music: Jeremy Desmond2016-10-0355 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastUIOK 22: The art of surfing with Matt ScorringeToday I’m chatting with Matt Scorringe. I first came across Matt as I was killing time while standing in a bookshop. I saw a coffee table book of New Zealand surfers on the shelf so I picked it up and flicked it open, it fell to the page with Matt on it. I was enthralled as I read his story and thought that this guy would be wicked to have a conversation with on the podcast. I did a bit of a google stalk of him and reached out to him. Matt was kind enough to get back to...2016-09-261h 10
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 21: Developing empathy through stories with Elizabeth ConnorHey everyone welcome to episode 21 of the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond. Today I’m talking with Elizabeth Connor about connecting the potential of science with the real needs of the world. Elizabeth shares with us some interesting stories, about being mentored by Sir Paul Callaghan, postgraduate study in England, winning the Prime Ministers prize for science communication, doing a TEDx talk, starting a business, starting a band, and being in a maths circus. Elizabeth has done some pretty impressive stuff, but like all of us still has those self-doubts. Toda...2016-09-191h 08
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 20: Learning to love the body you are in with Courtney DurrWelcome to the uncomfortable is OK podcast, I’m your host Chris Desmond and today is episode 20. This has come around so quickly! I’m pretty proud of getting this far, and it would never have happened if I hadn’t got a bit uncomfortable and just jumped into this. I want to quickly thank a few people that have made it possible; my lovely wife Julia for being supportive, all the awesome people who have given me feedback and who I’ve bounced ideas off, my gifted brother Jeremy Desmond for the awesome theme music, all the amazing people w...2016-09-1255 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 19: Making sustainability easy with Nick MorrisonHey everyone, welcome to the uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond. Today we’re at episode 19. Today I’m talking with Nick Morrison. Nick and I first met at University down in Dunedin a little while ago now. Today Nick shares with us a bit of his journey. From working as a personal trainer, getting to train Claudia Schiffer, starting up his own business, and turning 30 on a rooftop in Rio De Janeiro. We talk a bit today about human potential, both as individuals and as societies, and about how we are ho...2016-09-051h 11
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 17: Pushing the boundaries and breaking records with Richard McChesneyThis is episode 17 and I’m your host Chris Desmond. Today I’m having a chat with Richard McChesney. If you guys have had a listen to episode 4 of the podcast where I chat with Quentin Rew, you’ve be familiar with the sport of racewalking. On a side note, congratulations to Quentin for your fantastic effort in the 50km racewalk at the Rio Olympics. Richard is also a racewalker, but he is a long distance racewalker. You might be saying to yourself that 50k is plenty long enough for a walk but Richard walks 100km races. He has walked...2016-08-2249 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 16: Balancing life, work, money, and carbs with Paul Petch from Good People RunI’m your host Chris Desmond and this is episode 16. I’m having a chat today with Paul Petch for Good People Run among other things. This is how I first came across Paul and wanted to have a chat to him about it. Good People Run is A social enterprise, articles, stories, people, events, photography, creativity & running centric news - GPR is your personal & positive stoke for modern running life & culture. GPR is not-for-profit & inspires people to live healthier lifestyles through running. Now you might not believe it but this chat is the first conversation that Paul...2016-08-151h 06
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 15: Creating new families with Angela McCamishToday is episode 15 and I’m speaking with Angela McCamish about egg donation. Egg donation is an important topic to raise awareness of as it gives people who might otherwise not have had the chance to start a family. I was stoked to speak with Angela about it, and frankly a little bit uncomfortable myself. But that just shows I had kind of bought into the stigma around the topic. Today we speak about Angela’s story as a donor, why egg donation is important, the actual process of donating in New Zealand, and of course all the...2016-08-0839 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 14: Honing your craft and killing your inner editor with Dean WatsonToday I chat with Dean Watson, comedy writer. Dean Watson was born in Mitcham, Victoria, the same year Margaret Thatcher resigned as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Up until he was 19, Dean wanted to be a professional golfer. But there comes a point in every aspiring comedy writer golfer’s life where they need to trade the fades for the fade ins. Today we chat through some pretty interesting topics, including; Figuring out his balance between two different passions Very important to know what you want in the tou...2016-08-011h 14
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 13: Sometimes the most memorable times are the days everything goes wrong, with Tim and Zoe from 31 days inToday is lucky episode 13. We’ve got another 3 person conversation for you guys again today. I’m sitting down with Tim and Zoe to talk about their project 31 days in, where it has taken them and some of the adventures they have had along the way. You might have seen these guys in the New Zealand media over the last couple of months. They love to travel and have come up with a really unique way to immerse themselves in the places they visit. Spending 31 days in a city and creating a picture of the place each day. To...2016-07-2558 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 12: Taking sewing to the beach with Sarah LancasterI’m having a chat today to Sarah Lancaster from Sew Love. Sarah and I actually lived next door to each other when we were growing up but probably haven’t seen each other for about 15 or so years, so it was great to reconnect through the podcast. Sarah is a passionate person doing inspiring things but like all of us gets uncomfortable and goes through challenges. Sew Love is a social enterprise providing pop-up fun spaces and resources for people to be creative, learn new skills, and get to know their neighbours. We focus on reducing land...2016-07-181h 04
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 11: If something really scares you, you should probably do it with Erin Todd from WorkerBeHey team welcome to Episode 11 of the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. I’m your host Chris Desmond and today I’m having a conversation with Erin Todd from WorkerBe. Erin is another awesome individual that I met at Connect Wellington’s shameless soapbox. She’s bubbly, she’s vibrant and she has an infectious and powerful laugh so be prepared for a few of them today. WorkerBe is passionate about feeding people incredibly health food that makes them feel good, while encouraging nutrient dense gardening practices in our community. We chat about how Erin got involved i...2016-07-1142 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 9: Building our mindfulness muscles with Nick Laurence from Mindfulness for ChangeThis is episode 9 and today I’m talking with Nick Laurence who is working on a project called mindfulness for change. Mindfulness is a bit of a buzzword at the moment and I’m interested in figuring out just how much I’m capable of because I’m pretty sure that I hold myself back quite often. This might be consciously or unconsciously. Mindfulness is a tool that I’m trying to use to be more aware of the times that I am holding myself back and to allow me figure out how to address that. Nick and I talk throu...2016-06-2753 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 8: Adam McCarthy, how a 5 minute chat might just save your lifeThis week I speak with Adam McCarthy about his Ironman experience, his diagnosis of cancer, and the mission that both of these have spurred him on to complete. Adam is a great guy who came across a whole lot of uncomfortable situations. He dealt with these well, and has a whole lot of different uncomfortable things he has chosen to face to complete his new mission. Make sure to share out his story to help get him support for his journey. m.facebook.com/1knackermacca/ www.gofundme.com/zt3tnz84 2016-06-2031 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 7: Taking the crumbs of intelligence from every interaction. Shiffy Lal from Making A Difference SkillsToday I’m speaking with Shiffy Lal. Shiffy and I first met at a Connect Wellington event. Shiffy is the founder of Making a Difference Skills Ltd, or MADskills if you prefer. Today we have a chat through a few topics; Finding her calling – never saying never Talking about the fear of failure Talking about resistance when starting something new About not taking things personally Taking the crumbs of intelligence from every type of feedback Asking for help/outsourcing tasks is ok to do About brea...2016-06-1334 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 1: Rachael Desmond, Girls Got CurvesToday I’m talking to Rachael Desmond from Girls got Curves a healthy living and lifestyle blog. Now if you think that the name is familiar you would be right, as Rach is my cousin. But more than that Rachael is a working single mother, research consultant, self-proclaimed geek, healthy living and lifestyle writer, and recipe developer. She’s passionate about inspiring others to lead a healthy life by eating simple, delicious food without the big price tag or the gourmet cooking skills. Her passion stems from her ex-husband’s cancer diagnoses and her own health issues making her realis...2016-05-1621 min
Uncomfortable is OK PodcastEpisode 000 Welcome to the PodcastHi everyone. Welcome to the introduction episode of the Uncomfortable is OK podcast. Episode triple Zero! My name is Chris Desmond and I’ll be your host here. So the idea for the podcast came about because there are heaps of people out there, myself included that only operate within our comfort zones. We’ll adopt the mindset that “Hey, it’s easier not too”. We do the same things that we always do, because they are easy, because they are comfortable, and sometimes because society tells us that we should. We don’t often chal...2016-05-1202 min