Baskets Of Knowledge
Baskets of Knowledge is a weekly interview podcast hosted by Prajesh Chhanabhai and Tane Whitehead. Each episode features real people from all walks of life, including students, entrepreneurs, leaders, and everyday individuals. The conversations focus on storytelling, leadership, mindset, resilience, and self-improvement, offering honest and relatable wisdom. If you enjoy podcasts like The Diary of a CEO or The Mel Robbins Podcast, this show is designed for you.
Episodes
You Can't Control Life. You Can Control Your Mindset | Manoj Patel | Baskets of Knowledge Ep.204
Can you really be happy if you can't control what happens to you?In Episode 204 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Manoj Patel, whose remarkable journey has taken him from rural India to working across eight countries, from Chartered Accountant to Mental Health Support Worker, and back into the classroom at 69 years old.But this conversation isn't really about careers.It's about
Episode 203 | Malak Tamimi: Identity, Belonging, Storytelling & Why Believing in Yourself Changes Everything
What happens when a 16-year-old has the wisdom most adults spend decades searching for?In Episode 203 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with youth advocate, storyteller, podcaster and Race Unity Speech Awards winner Malak Tamimi.Growing up between Palestine and Aotearoa New Zealand, Malak shares how identity, culture, family and faith have shaped the person she is becoming.This isn't simply
How Confidence Is Built, Not Found | Lata Hamilton
Most people spend years waiting to feel confident before making a change.Lata Hamilton believes that confidence doesn't come first.Action does.In Episode 202 of Baskets of Knowledge, Lata shares the lessons that transformed her life, from overcoming self-doubt and leaving a traditional corporate path, to tripling her income, building a successful business, writing a book, and navigating some o
How Leaving Your Comfort Zone Can Change Your Life | Bella Anastasiou | Baskets of Knowledge Ep. 201
Bella Anastasiou's story is a powerful reminder that the life you want often begins with a step you are afraid to take.In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, Bella shares her journey through mental health challenges, depression, identity shifts, career changes, remote work, digital nomad life, personal branding and the lessons she learned while building a life across Europe.From navigating s
The Conversation Every Young Person Needs Right Now | Burnout, AI, Purpose & Human Connection | Episode 200
200 episodes later, this may be one of the most important conversations we’ve had.In this milestone episode of Baskets of Knowledge, Prajesh and Tane sit down with Aarthi Candadai and Lola Fisher for a deeply honest conversation about burnout, purpose, identity, AI, leadership, human connection and what it means to grow up in today’s rapidly changing world.Together, they explore:Burnout in purpose
From Gaza to Medical School: Baraa Harbid on Identity, Self-Doubt & Transformation | Episode 199
In Episode 199 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Baraa Harbid for one of the most honest and perspective-shifting conversations we’ve had on the podcast.Baraa shares his journey from arriving in New Zealand from Gaza as a young child struggling with language, confidence and belonging… to becoming a 5th year medical student at the University of Auckland.But this episode goes far deeper than
Identity, Mental Health & Leadership: What Rugby Taught Me About Life | Adrian Silvester | Baskets of Knowledge Ep. 198
What if the life you’re living… isn’t actually yours?In Episode 198 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Adrian Silvester, rugby coach, global traveller, and mentor, to explore identity, mental health, leadership, and the power of perspective.From coaching in Brazil’s favelas to working with young athletes across cultures, Adrian shares real stories about:The reality of mental health in high-
Do It Doubting: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Loss & Building Resilience | Baskets of Knowledge Ep. 197
What if confidence isn’t required to start?What if the real courage is moving forward while doubt is still present?In Episode 196 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Amelia Robinson, a business owner, mother of three, and leader who shares her honest journey through entrepreneurship, motherhood, grief, and resilience.This conversation goes beyond business.It explores the emotional realities
How Storytelling Beats Data in the Age of AI | Baskets of Knowledge Podcast Ep. 196
In a world obsessed with data, automation, and artificial intelligence, one truth still stands:People don’t act on data.They act on stories.In Episode 196 of the Baskets of Knowledge podcast, we sit down with Sumali Wickramarachchi, a human-centered data storyteller who shares a deeply personal journey, from a shy child who struggled to belong, to a confident voice helping organisations make bette
How Self-Belief Changes Your Life | Reinvention, Resilience & Finding Your Purpose with Maryum Sharif | Episode 195
What happens when life forces you to start again?In Episode 195 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Maryum Sharif, host of the Styles Mogul Podcast, to explore a journey defined by courage, reinvention, and unwavering self-belief.From working with disadvantaged youth…to serving in the prison system…to stepping into the world of fashion and media…Maryum’s story is a powerful reminder that lif
How One Mentor Can Change a Young Person’s Life | Intergenerational Leadership with Wee-Yeong Eyou | Episode 194
What happens when a young person loses their identity, and one adult steps in and changes their future?In Episode 194 of the Baskets of Knowledge podcast, we sit down with Wee-Yeong Eyou, a passionate mentor, father, and advocate for young people, to explore the power of mentorship, purpose, and intergenerational leadership.At just 15 years old, Wee-Yeong moved countries, lost his sense of belongi
From Bullying to Advocacy: How a 17-Year-Old Is Changing Youth Mental Health
What happens when your biggest setback becomes your greatest purpose?We sit down with Savera Sidhu, a 17-year-old university student, black belt in karate, and youth mental health advocate who is already making a powerful impact in her community.After experiencing bullying, navigating family challenges, and facing a career-changing injury, Savera made a decision that changed everything, to turn he
How Values Shape Identity: Youth Leadership, Focus & Perspective | Ari Taylor | Episode 192
What happens when values move from something you're taught… to something you actually live?In Episode 192 of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Ari Taylor, a young leader whose experiences in service, global communities, and youth leadership have shaped a powerful perspective on identity, focus, and human connection.This conversation explores how real-world experiences transform values int
Money Mindset, Self-Worth & Courage: How to Take Control of Your Finances | Stacey Adams
Why do smart, capable people still feel stuck with money?In this powerful episode of Baskets of Knowledge, Prajesh sits down with money mindset coach Stacey Adams to explore the emotional side of financial wellbeing and why confidence is built through courage, not certainty.Stacey shares her personal journey through grief, identity transformation, and helping people rebuild their relationship with
From Arranged Marriage to Self-Honouring: Dr Mini on Healing, Yoga Science & Nervous System Regulation
What happens when you’ve lived a life that looks right on paper… but feels misaligned in your body?In this powerful episode of Baskets of Knowledge, Dr Manmeet Rattu (Dr Mini) shares her journey from growing up in a deeply loving cultural family, entering an arranged marriage, and navigating its breakdown, to rediscovering herself through strength training, a bikini bodybuilding competition, and u
Creating Support Systems & Navigating Change | Youth Leadership, Mental Health & Systemic Change with Kenisha Mediratta
What happens when a young person refuses to accept broken systems as “just the way things are”?In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Kenisha Mediratta, founder of REdefine Aotearoa, to explore creating support systems, navigating change, and leading through lived experience.Kenisha shares her journey from growing up in West Auckland public schools to founding a youth-led platfo
Confidence Isn’t Inherited, It’s Built | Ritu Saxena on Imposter Syndrome, Identity & Self-Advocacy
What happens when doing “everything right” still doesn’t feel right?In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Ritu Saxena, founder of Project UpgradeHer, to explore what confidence really looks like when it’s built, not inherited.Born and raised in Mumbai, Ritu became a Chartered Accountant and moved to New Zealand to experiment with independence and live on her own terms. On paper
Turning Frustration Into Focus | How Amber Scott Built PIQ While Studying Law
What if the thing you rely on for productivity is actually working against you?In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Amber Scott, a fourth-year law student and the founder of PIQ, to explore how personal frustration with caffeine, chronic fatigue, and burnout turned into a science-backed solution for focus and energy.Amber shares her journey of building PIQ while studying law,
From Al-Khalil to Ōtepoti: Rinad Tamimi on Identity, Palestine & Perspective
What does it mean to belong, to a place, a people, and yourself?In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we speak with Rinad Tamimi, a Palestinian woman who grew up in Al-Khalil (Hebron) and moved to New Zealand at 13. Rinad shares her lived experience of migration, identity, racism, motherhood, and returning home after nine years away.This is a conversation about Palestine beyond the headlines,
The Inner Work of Young Leadership: The Process of Becoming Me | Mackenzie Wills
What does real leadership look like at 19?In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Mackenzie, a student at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. She is a youth advocate who is quietly reshaping what leadership, empathy, and impact truly mean.This conversation explores people-first leadership, the power of reflection, and why real change doesn’t come from titles, it comes fr
The Moment You Realise You’re Meant for More with Mina Amso (Notes from the Executive)
What happens when the life you worked so hard for… no longer feels like your life?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mina Amso, founder of Notes from the Executive, to explore identity, reinvention, cultural expectations, courage, and the moment you finally choose alignment over approval.We dive into:• Career pivots & following your purpose• Breaking away from family expectations• How
From High School to High Impact: How Teen Founders Built NZ’s First Matcha Protein Brand
In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with 18-year-old Adam and 17-year-old Alfie, the young entrepreneurs behind ZenSha, New Zealand’s first matcha protein brand.They share how they turned a classroom idea into a fast-growing health and wellness business, how they built their startup while still in school, and why consistency and action are the keys to success.Perfect for listeners
The Mountain That Changed Everything: Saravanan Sinniah on Climate, Purpose & the Power of Travel
In this powerful episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Malaysian mountaineer and environmental educator Saravanan Sinniah, a man whose life changed the moment he fulfilled his childhood dream of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro… and discovered the heartbreaking reality of climate change with his own eyes.From witnessing melting glaciers to leading young people through forests and ecosystems
Imposter Syndrome, Confidence & Leadership Truths with Kristin Murray | Evidence That Builds Confidence
In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, Kristin Murray, a leader with 30 years of experience, has a real, unscripted moment of imposter syndrome right at the start of the interview. What follows is one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever recorded.Kristin opens up about navigating self-doubt, owning feedback, finding her voice, and discovering the framework that changed everything for her:
What If Everything Did Work Out? Margot Korhonen on Courage, Chronic Fatigue & Creating Connected Communities
In this powerful episode of Baskets of Knowledge, Margot Korhonen, a Community Coach and Creative, shares how one simple question, “What if everything did work out?”, changed the course of her life.From being a single mum dreaming of small comforts to becoming a homeowner, artist, and author of Creating Connected Communities, Margot’s journey is a masterclass in courage, self-leadership, and love.
Change, Liminal Space and Choosing the Right Emoji | with Janelle Hulin
Change is inevitable, but growth is a choice.In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Janelle Hulin, author, speaker, and proud “emoji enthusiast,” to unpack the beauty and chaos of change.From raising six children while homeschooling across continents to losing a career she loved, Janelle shares how she discovered the power of the Liminal Space, that uncertain in-between where t
How One Missing Credit Led to a STEM Career | Liahna Smith on Non-Linear Paths, Mental Health & Taking Uncomfortable Opportunities
What happens when being "one credit short" becomes the catalyst for an extraordinary journey?Join us for an emotional and inspiring conversation with Liahna Smith, a 23-year-old wahine toa from Taranaki who's redefining what career success looks like. Currently working with Pūhoro STEM Academy (on secondment from Why Ora), Liahna shares her raw and real journey from feeling "not
Kodrean Eashae on Leadership, Legacy & The Voice of Aroha
When Kodrean Eashae couldn’t find space for his voice, he built one.In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we explore how Voice of Aroha became a home for refugee and migrant stories in Aotearoa. Kodrean shares his journey from feeling unheard to creating a platform that now uplifts hundreds of young people across New Zealand.Expect deep reflection, practical insights, and an emotional reminder
“You’re More Likely to Become Homeless Than a Millionaire” – The Story of Kiyara Glasgow
This week on Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Kiyara Glasgow, a 19-year-old student whose journey will shift how you see homelessness forever.From sleeping in cars and park benches at 13, to earning a scholarship and studying at AUT, Kiyara’s story is a powerful reminder that our circumstances don’t define uz our choices do.She opens up about:Life as a homeless teenager in AotearoaHow educat
From Rock Bottom to Reinvention: The Power of Choosing Yourself with Di Crawford-Errington
23 years ago, Di Crawford-Errington was a solo mum working two jobs, struggling to keep a roof over her daughters’ heads. Today, she’s built and sold businesses, leads an industry, and been recognised as one of the Top 50 Women in Accounting.... twice.But this conversation isn’t about titles or accolades.It’s about the real human story behind them.In this week's episode of Baskets of Knowledge
From Factory Floor to Founder: The Inspiring Journey of Pat Wulf
What does it take to completely rewrite your story?For Pat Wulf, the answer was courage, belief, and a decision to run uphill.In this week’s episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Pat, the founder and owner of Wulf Security, a thriving, nationwide security company, to unpack his remarkable transformation from working long shifts in a factory to building a business that has employed over
From Grief to Growth with Sarah Robb
What happens when life brings you to your knees?At just 20 years old, Sarah Robb lost her father. Six years later, while overseas, she received a call that changed her world again, her mother had suffered a brain aneurysm. By 26, she had lost both parents.The grief was overwhelming. There were days she couldn’t get out of bed, days of numbing pain through old habits. But instead of letting loss br
Street Interviews & Real Conversations with Jasky Singh
What happens when you take comedy, curiosity, and courage… and bring them to the streets?In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we’re joined by Jasky Singh, better known as @sikant the street interviewer who has redefined how we connect with strangers. With a community of more than 140,000 followers across his socials, Jasky has built one of the most engaging and unfiltered interview platforms i
From "dumb student" to global leader, overcoming labels, office politics & communication mastery with Amit Khanna
"When we are born, we look like our parents. When we die, we look like our choices."That quote framed one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had on Baskets of Knowledge, with our guest, Amit Khanna.Amit’s life hasn’t been a straight line. It’s a story of resilience, loss, and rebirth.Once labeled the “dumb student”, Amit carried that identity through his childhood and early teens.
Choosing courage over comfort with Georgie Chambers
This week we sat down with the incredible Georgie Chambers, a person whose journey is as courageous as it is inspiring.Georgie opened up about her transformation from living in the shadows of insecurity, body image struggles, and an eating disorder… to becoming a coach, leader, and community builder who empowers others to choose themselves and step into courage every day.One of the pivotal moments
Front of the Pack Leadership with Vicki Tyler
On the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sat down with Vicki Tyler, a powerhouse in leadership, coaching, and human development , to unpack her incredible journey of resilience, self-discovery, and growth.Vicki’s story is deeply human. She spoke about her early years, the challenges of navigating identity and belonging, and how those experiences shaped her drive to create spaces where peo
Making The CUT: The Moments Behind the Method with Sneha Villalva
What happens when you stop adding… and start cutting?In our latest Baskets of Knowledge episode, we speak with Sneha Villalva, a woman who has worn many hats; journalist, executive speechwriter, storyteller, and now, emerging speaker and soon-to-be author.Her journey is anything but ordinary.- She discovered her calling in the middle of a darkened dorm room, sick and reading a book that would chan
Un-Migrant me with Pratishtha Purohit
This week, we sat down with Pratishtha Purohit, founder of EduventureNZ, corporate trainer, social impact advocate, and mum, to talk about her journey to New Zealand, the challenges she’s faced, and the generational ripple effect of her work.Pratishtha’s story is one of courage, grit, and purpose:- She moved to NZ after a life changing head injury left her partially deaf and without her sense of
4 Marathons. 1 Day. A Thousand Emotions. with Scott Casey-Woolridge
He did it. Four marathons in one day. But the real story? It wasn’t about fitness.On this week’s episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we welcome back Scott Casey-Woolridge, one month and one day after his huge challenge: a marathon ski, row, bike and run… all in a single day.We spoke to him before the event. He was excited, focused, and ready.Now, on the other side of it?We talk about the raw truth, t
Put the Phone Down with Chris Valli
It started with a student refusing to put their phone away.Chris Valli was a teacher, father, husband, and community man. On paper, everything looked “fine.” But beneath the surface, he was juggling too much, teaching by day, musical theatre by night, a strained marriage, and a growing sense of disconnect within himself.And then, in one moment of exhaustion and reactivity, it all came crashing dow
The Widow's Courage with Roslyn English
What does courage look like when life throws you into unimaginable grief?How do you keep showing up when the future you built disappears overnight?In this weeks episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we speak with Roslyn English OAM, community leader, musician, cancer survivor, and proud recipient of the Order of Australia Medal.At the youthful age of 80, Roslyn is still learning, growing, and giving ba
From Struggles to Strength: The Journey of Chandni Sahrawat
What does it take to go from standing outside the principal’s office for failing school exams… to becoming the founding director of two of New Zealand’s most innovative restaurants… and now, a transformative coach reshaping lives?In this deeply moving and powerful episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Chandni Sahrawat , entrepreneur, advocate, and coach to unpack a life story that wil
How Aditi Gorasia Is Ending Period Poverty with Ads on Pads
What if period equity wasn’t just a cause but a business model?What if advertising could fund free period products without putting the burden back on women?That’s exactly what Aditi Gorasia is doing with Ads on Pads, a social enterprise changing the game. In this episode, Aditi shares the deeply personal story behind her mission to eliminate period poverty in Aotearoa and beyond.From handing out f
The self-discovery of doing hard things
"If you can, you will." The mindset behind doing the impossible.On the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sat down with someone who doesn’t just talk about growth—he lives it.Meet Scott Casey-Woolridge: recent university graduate, CrossFit coach, and the man behind a physical and mental challenge that will stretch what you believe is possible.Last year, Scott rowed over 465km acr
The Law and lore of Kartini
This week on Baskets of Knowledge, we had the privilege of speaking with Kartini Clarke, a law student, neurodiversity advocate, political changemaker, and powerful voice for young people in Aotearoa.Kartini’s story is one of perseverance, identity, and the courage to challenge systems that weren’t built to support everyone.Raised in rural New Zealand, Kartini faced bullying, cultural isolation, a
From Why to Wai with Joe Harawira
In the latest episode of the Baskets of Knowledge podcast, we sat down with Joe Harawira, the CEO and co-founder of Wai Manuka, a unique beverage brand born in Whakatāne, New Zealand, and deeply rooted in Māori culture. Joe’s journey from the military to high-performance sport, and now to entrepreneurship, is a story of grit, purpose, and innovation.Joe’s path to leadership wasn’t linear. He began
From Confused Graduate to Podcast Powerhouse
What happens when you tick all the boxes, graduate from uni, land the job, follow the ‘right’ path, but still feel something’s missing?That was Sarah Kelsey in 2019.She had a business degree, a corporate job offer, and a life that looked perfect on paper. But deep down, she was asking herself:“Why am I doing this?” “What’s my purpose?”❓“How come I still don’t understand how to manage my own money?
A Journey of Culture, Courage, and Community with Leilani Faaiuaso
Raised in South Auckland, Leilani Faaiuaso’s journey is a powerful testament to cultural pride, intergenerational learnings, and community service.In this Baskets of Knowledge episode, Leilani opens up about what it means to grow up as a Samoan woman in spaces where brown faces were few and far between, from her scholarship experience at St Cuthbert's College to thriving in the corporate world
Eman Ghandour on Identity, Sisterhood, and Strength
In this week’s episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with the incredible Eman Ghandour, a passionate advocate for migrant and refugee communities, and founder of the inspiring Khawat Network.Eman shares her journey from Jordan to Aotearoa, navigating the complexities of identity, culture, and belonging. As a proud Jordanian migrant, Eman’s story is one of resilience, growing up in Dunedin,
"Live Fully. Die Empty.” with Wyndi Tagi
This episode might just wake you up.We sit down with Wyndi Tagi, international speaker, business founder, cancer warrior, proud Māori wāhine, and unapologetic force of nature. Her story? It’s not just inspiring, it’s a roadmap for what it means to live on your own terms, challenge norms, and lead with heart.Wyndi is the co-founder of WE Mana, an accounting and business advisory firm that grew into
From Trauma to Triumph: Rhys Blisset and the Run for Change Movement
In this powerful episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we sit down with Rhys Blisset, a young man whose story is nothing short of extraordinary. From surviving a childhood shaped by domestic violence to launching a movement that’s gaining national attention, Rhys is using running to create real change.Founder of Run for Change, Rhys ran 137 kilometers to raise over $16,000 for Women’s Refuge NZ, turnin
Hold On to Your Friends
This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Louisa and Kath, the dynamic duo involved with Hold On to Your Friends, a student-led initiative that’s transforming the culture of safety and care within Dunedin’s vibrant student community. Their mission? To ensure students can enjoy their university experience without compromising safety or well-being.What is Hold On to Your Friends?Born out of t
Stanley Henry: The story behind The Attn Seeker
Most people know Stanley Henry as the founder of The Attn Seeker, a powerhouse agency redefining organic social media. His company is everywhere, on LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, helping brands craft authentic, attention-grabbing presences online.But this episode of Baskets of Knowledge isn’t about business strategies or viral content.It’s about Stanley the man.We uncover the real story behind his
Episode 151 - From failing maths toBecoming NZ’s Local Hero of the Year!
Maths is boring, right? Not if you’re learning from Subash Chandar K, a Top 10 Global Teacher Prize finalist, the winner of the KiwiBank NZ Local Hero of the Year, and the brains behind the YouTube channel Infinity Plus One.By day, he’s a humble maths teacher at Ormiston Junior College. By night, he’s running live-streamed tutorials, breaking down tough maths concepts, and helping thousands of stu
Episode 150 - Moodi’s Co-Founder On Transforming Wellness
Over the last few weeks you may have heard, seen, tasted or missed out on the pre- pro- biotic sodas made by Moodi. This product has taken the market by storm! In this episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Kate Gatfield-Jeffries, co-founder of Moodi, a mental wellness supplement brand redefining the way we consume pre- and probiotics. From law and business sc
Episode 149 - From Med Student to Startup Founder with Ronan Payinda
In the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Ronan Payinda, a medical student who didn’t just stop at mastering anatomy but decided to build a whole digital health startup called SurgReady. But what really stood out was his heart for the community, especially his work with refugees and advocating for health equity.Ronan's passion for supporting r
Episode 148 - Growth, Leadership and Kindness, The seeds for navigating change
In this episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with the incredible Briana Belford, a 19-year-old university student whose journey is a tapestry of kindness, culture, and courage. From navigating her Pacific heritage in academic and personal realms to embracing grief as a teacher of life's impermanence, Bri shared stories that resonate deeply.Key Learnings:Kindness as a superpower: Bri r
Episode 147 - From struggles to success: How Khadija Usman built Grit Coaches and is transforming lives
What does it take to transform adversity into purpose? In this inspiring podcast episode, we explore the story of Khadija Usman, an entrepreneur, coach, and community builder who has turned her challenges into a global mission to empower others.Born in Pakistan, Khadija grew up navigating the complexities of two worlds, her homeland and her second home, the UK. Her life took unexpected turns, from
Episode 146 - Adapting to thrive in this game of luck with Angad Chauhan
On the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we had the privilege of sitting down with Angad Chauhan, a recently graduated doctor and an inspiring individual with a journey that transcends borders, disciplines, and challenges. Angad’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and an unrelenting pursuit of purpose.From grappling with tough decisions as a high school student to immersing himself in t
Episode 145 - Cattle Credit: Solving climate change with space tech with Cairo Akehurst
On the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we’re thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with Cairo Akehurst, a 17-year-old student from Christchurch who is proving that age is no barrier to innovation. Cairo is the founder of Cattle Credit, a startup transforming the agricultural industry by leveraging satellite data to monitor and reduce methane emissions, one of the most potent gree
Episode 144 - Ice Cream, Innovation, and Kindness with Mrinali Kumar
What does it take to transform a bold idea into a game-changing product? In our latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we chat with Mrinali Kumar, co-founder of EatKinda, the world’s first cauliflower-based ice cream.
Mrinali shares how she turned her passion for food technology into a thriving business, carving a unique path in the plant-based market. From growing up in a hardworking migrant fa
Episode 143 - Life on the Medical Field with Sam Landers
In our last Baskets of Knowledge episode for 2024, we sat down with the incredible Sam Landers, a young man from rural Taranaki, who’s rewriting the rulebook on what’s possible.
From missing out on medical school the first time around to running 200km for charity, refereeing rugby finals, and embracing imposter syndrome, Sam’s story is one of grit, growth, and purpose.
Sam’s achievements aren’t
Episode 142 - Curry Pastes and Courage: A Story of Resilience and Courage with Nimeesha Odedra
In the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we had the privilege of speaking with Nimeesha Odedra. Her story takes us from the challenges of migration to the triumph of building a business with her mother, showing us what’s possible when we refuse to give up.
Key takeaways this week:
The Migrant Experience: As a migrant woman in New Zealand, Nimeesha faced the double burden of systemic biases
Episode 141 - Shifting Sands and Growing Roots: Reflections on Advocacy, Disability, and Coastal Erosion with Tara Shepherd
What drives someone to create meaningful change from the age of 5? Meet Tara Shepherd—a trailblazer, advocate, and environmental leader whose journey is as inspiring as it is impactful.
Tara’s story begins with her experiences at Ronald McDonald House, where she saw firsthand the importance of community and compassion. At just five years old, she began advocating for others, and that passion has
Episode 140 - Embracing the power of small steps with Priya
In this week’s episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we’re thrilled to feature Priya, a person that continues to blow our mind through her simple yet empowering content. Priya transformed her life by stepping away from the traditional “success checklist” to define purpose on her own terms. Raised with conservative expectations, Priya followed the typical path of education, career, and family but found
Episode 139 - Preserving Whenua & Identity while embracing the Ivy League opportunity with Ryan Williams
In our latest episode, we chat with Ryan Williams, an inspiring young leader from rural New Zealand who’s now thriving at Dartmouth College with the support of Crimson Education. From a small town to the Ivy League, Ryan’s story is packed with insights on authenticity, perseverance, and the power of community.
Key Takeaways:
Stay True to Your Roots: Growing up on a farm, Ryan’s connection to the
Episode 138 - Echoes: The man behind the album with Jai Bartlett
In our latest Baskets of Knowledge episode, we dive into an inspiring kōrero with Jai, a multi-talented artist navigating the worlds of music, mixed heritage, and personal growth. Jai shared his creative journey, from the initial struggle between choosing a "safe" career path in architecture to pursuing his true passion in music and art. Here’s what we learned:
Embrace Your Unique Path – Jai open
Episode 137 - From new migrant to a GirlBoss winner with Avin Khajehzadeh
In our recent podcast episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Avin, a remarkable young leader whose journey from Iran to New Zealand highlights the importance of empathy, identity, and community-centered support. Here are some powerful insights she shared:
Migration and Identity: Moving countries isn't just physical; it's about rebuilding identity. Avin's family left Iran, bringing two you
Episode 136 - Smiling sustainabily and tales of leadership with Adam McConnochie
Change is inevitable, but how we embrace it makes all the difference. We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Adam McConnochie, co-founder of sustainable toothpaste company, Solid, on our podcast, Baskets of Knowledge. His journey is a testament to the power of transformation, both personally and professionally.
One pivotal moment in Adam’s life was a trip to India during his final year of
Episode 135 - The Power of Taking Risks and Building Connections with Lewis Wall
In the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we had the pleasure of speaking with Lewis Wall, founder of The Student Hand, an early careers recruitment platform helping students in New Zealand connect with businesses for internships and graduate opportunities. Lewis, a recent graduate from the University of Otago, shared his journey from creating a labour hire service to pivoting into recruitmen
Episode 134 - Jump, rather than step! with Crissy Sanders
In our latest podcast episode, we had an incredible conversation with Crissy Sanders, a 21-year-old public health graduate who has experienced more in the last few years than most do in a lifetime.
Crissy shared her adventures working in Kiribati, a remote Pacific Island, and traveling solo through East Africa. She opened up about her philosophy of life—“Jump, don’t step”—embracing opportunities
Episode 133 - When the world says no, you say yes! with Lori Thomson
This week we are really privileged to have Lori Thomson, a nursing student, who shares their candid and inspiring journey through personal challenges and academic pursuits. From battling eating disorders and societal expectations to excelling in clinical placements, this story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of human connection.
Lori candidly discusses experiences with
Episode 132 - Finding what stirs your soul! with Sanskruti Banerjee
In this week's episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we spoke to Sanskruti Banerjee, a law and commerce student at the University of Auckland with a passion for problem-solving, advocacy, and creativity.
Sanskruti shared her journey of balancing multiple roles—from community work in mental health and sexual violence advocacy to her love for poetry and dance. Sanskriti discussed her involvement wi
Episode 131 - Carrying Community, Everyday activism with Zoe Dzapasi
Recently, we had the honor of speaking with Zoe Dzapasi, an 18-year-old student at Victoria University of Wellington, who shared her incredible journey of growth, self-discovery, and advocacy. Despite moving to New Zealand from Zimbabwe at 18 months old, Zoe has maintained a strong connection to her roots while navigating the challenges of belonging in a new country.
During our conversation, Zoe
Episode 130 - One foot in front of the other with Alex Witt
We all remember 2020, it was the year when everyone's lives changed. for some people it was terrible, for others they found a silver lining and for a majority it was OH NO!! Our guest this week found lock down a pivotal moment in his life. It was during lock down that Alex Witt decided to start running, this all came from the fact that he looked in the mirror and did not like what he saw.
Ale
Episode 129 - Creativity, Community and Entrepreneurship with Abbie Wood
A small project while she was at primary school was the catalyst to this week's guests foray into the world of entrepreneurship.
Abbie Wood talks to us about how creating and selling bracelets at her grannie's market was her first step into realising that she had a creative brain but also a mindset that would foster the idea of creating value through her own enterprise as she got older.
Episode 128 - When Passion and Entrepreneurship Collide - A teenager taking on the adult world with Elisa Harley
When you think about young people, you think about young people in class studying, playing sports, hanging with friends, having fun....our guest this week does all that AND is also running an entrepreneurial venture that is shaking up the sustainability world.
Elisa Harley, our guest this week speaks to us passionately about her business idea, how it came about, where it is now and what the futu
Episode 127 - Learn the rules & play the game better with Zeena Khan
Game on! Meet our next guest, Zeena Khan: Leader, Speaker & Author.
Zeena is a dynamic individual of Chinese, Fijian, and Indian descent, from South Auckland she moved to Wellington 5yrs ago, seeking adventure & opportunity to lean in with curiosity.
A champion of lifelong learning with a multifaceted background, Zeena also has an artistic side, having published her first poetry book in
Episode 126 - Disrupting the Education model with Jamie Beatson
This week's guest is well known in Edutech for changing the face of education. A key learning from his mother when he was young has been instrumental in Jamie Beaton lifting the perceived barriers that young people have in New Zealand to be able to study in some of the Top Universities in North America.
In this really inspiring conversation we talk about what is the motivation for Jamie to ke
Episode 125 - Change, Growth and Exploring New Horizons with Magdeline Huang
Growing up, our guest this week thought that working in the health industry was what she was destined for. However, after one year of dabbling in this space, she pivoted from health to tech. This change opened up opportunities galore for our guest Magdeline Huang.
With her role as a software engineer now, Magdeline speaks to us about how delving into tech unlocked a whole new world for her. We al
