Afleveringen
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Ever wondered what rock bottom looks like? Well, Dave Letele—aka the Mighty Brown Butterbean—has been there, done that, and somehow managed to turn it all into one of the most inspiring comeback stories you’ll ever hear. In this episode of The Brink, Ringo and Ridgey sit down with the man himself to unpack a life that went from crime, gangs, and addiction to leading a community movement that’s changing lives.
Dave doesn’t hold back—he talks about what it was like growing up surrounded by violence, hitting 210 kilos, and waking up one day realizing he had two choices: keep spiraling or do something about it. Spoiler alert—he chose the second one. Through sheer grit (and a fair bit of sweat), he turned his life around, using boxing as a vehicle for change. But it wasn’t just about dropping weight—it was about reshaping his entire mindset.
Now, through BBM (Butterbean Motivation), Dave is on a mission to help others do the same, offering free health programs, community support, and straight-up hope to those who need it most. From the importance of asking for help (seriously, it’s a power move) to tackling poverty and crime at their roots, Dave gets real about what it takes to break the cycle.
If you need a kick up the backside or just a solid dose of inspiration, this one’s for you. Tune in and find out why the good life isn’t just for a lucky few—it’s for anyone willing to fight for it.
Support the movement: www.bbm.fit
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Ridgey and Ringo dive into a powerful story of redemption with former All Black Zac Guildford. Once a rising star in rugby, Zac’s life took a dark turn as he battled addiction, personal loss, and the pressures of elite sport. His journey is not just about struggle—it’s about owning mistakes, confronting demons, and fighting to rebuild a life with meaning.
Zac opens up about the devastating loss of his father and how it led him to destructive coping mechanisms like alcohol and gambling. He speaks candidly about the hidden nature of his addiction, the denial that fueled it, and the rock-bottom moment that forced him to face reality. But this is not a story of defeat—this is a story of taking responsibility, making amends, and proving to himself that change is possible.
Now, Zac is committed to turning his past into something positive. Through his work with Broken Movement Trust, he’s using his experiences to help others navigate addiction and mental health challenges. He shares how giving back, self-awareness, and confronting imposter syndrome have helped him find purpose in recovery.
This conversation is about more than just mistakes—it’s about second chances and the ongoing battle to become better. Redemption is not instant; it’s a journey. And Zac’s story proves that no matter how far you fall, there is always a way forward.
Zac's charity: https://thebrokenmovement.org/
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Your favorite sifty duo, Ringo & Ridgey dive headfirst into the mind-blowing world of Human Design with the brilliant (and probably way more enlightened) Hannah Crerar a Human Design specialist, which basically means she can tell you why you do weird things based on the exact moment you entered this chaotic planet.
After receiving a reading each from Hannah, David and Matthew, in their usual fashion, ask all the important questions like, does knowing your Human Design mean you can finally blame your life choices on the stars? Hannah explains how this system blends ancient wisdom with modern science to give you a cosmic cheat sheet for navigating life. She breaks down energy types, why parents should stop forcing their kids to be mini versions of themselves and how understanding your aura can actually make you better at human-ing.
The guys also explore emotional alignment, the secret language of Generators and Manifestors and why communication is basically the glue holding our lives together. Hannah drops some knowledge bombs about sensitivity being a superpower, spiritual growth hitting you like a truck and why living authentically might actually be the hack to life.
So, if you've ever wanted to know why you're the way you are (without having to see a therapist), tune in, it's weird, it's deep, and it might just change your life.
For your own reading with Hannah she can be found on:
Instagram: @hannahcrerar AND hannahsoulpsychology.com
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In this lively and insightful episode, David and his ever-curious co-host Matthew sit down with Australian meditation maestro Andrew Marsh to explore the transformative world of meditation. With equal parts wit and wisdom, the trio dives into the practical and profound, discussing how meditation isn’t about escaping life—it’s about showing up for it. Whether they’re debating the societal stigma around meditation or poking fun at their own struggles to stay present, the conversation strikes the perfect balance between entertaining and enlightening.Matthew brings his trademark humor and fresh perspective, asking the questions we’ve all secretly wondered, like, “Does chanting a mantra feel weird at first?” (Spoiler: it might, but Andrew makes a strong case for sticking with it). Meanwhile, David steers the discussion into deeper waters, exploring the connection between transcendence, addiction, and the universal quest for happiness. Andrew’s insights, paired with the hosts’ banter, reveal how meditation can shift your entire relationship with yourself—and maybe even with that annoying coworker.
This episode isn’t just for seasoned meditators; it’s for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by modern life and wondered if there’s another way. With practical tips, laugh-out-loud moments, and a reminder that true happiness comes from within, David, Matthew, and Andrew invite you to rethink what it means to truly be present. Tune in, breathe deeply, and get ready to feel inspired.
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This week on The Brink, co-hosts Ringo and Ridgey take a hilariously raw and surprisingly heartfelt look at their journey as podcast partners and friends. From navigating addiction and personal growth to dealing with backlash from listeners (and occasionally each other), they dive into the challenges of tackling tough topics like sexuality and societal expectations while keeping things unapologetically authentic. The boys open up about how they’ve been finding transformation in life through meditation, personal growth and redefining success as something rooted in happiness and meaningful connections—while in their usual chaotic fashion keeping the mood anything but heavy. Packed with humor, honesty, and a few ill-timed jokes, this episode reminds us that growth is messy, life is unpredictable and sometimes the best lessons come wrapped in a whole lot of laughter. It’s equal parts therapy session and comedy hour, so buckle up for the ride!
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Ahoy! Season 2 of The Brink sets sail with a story that’s anything but ordinary. Meet David Seal: once a Jehovah’s Witness, now considered the ‘Jeremy Clarkson of the yacht Superyacht industry’ having created the most popular yacht sales YouTube channel in the world. From navigating the complexities of a tightly controlled upbringing to cruising the high seas of luxury yacht sales, David’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and the art of selling floating mansions.
David’s childhood in the Jehovah’s Witness Church might not seem like an obvious springboard to a career in yacht sales, but it turns out the door-to-door preaching and public speaking required by the religion gave him confidence most of us can only dream of. However, leaving the church wasn’t just a dramatic pivot; it was an emotionally wrenching decision that reshaped his family relationships and his entire worldview. Despite the pain, David saw it as a necessary step to pursue freedom and authenticity.
Serendipity played a key role in David’s transition into the world of yachting. A chance connection with a wealthy family building custom yachts led him into a new career path. From there, he quickly found his sea legs, sealing one of the largest yacht sales in the world early in his career. But the yacht brokerage business isn’t all champagne toasts and ocean breezes. David shares the highs and lows, including the emotional toll of navigating tough financial times and the intense pressure of meeting the demands of ultra-wealthy clients.
The 2008 financial crisis sent shockwaves through the yacht industry, leading to bankruptcies and a major recalibration of what luxury meant in tough times. But David didn’t just survive—he innovated. He was a pioneer in using video marketing to showcase yachts, bringing a fresh approach to an old-school industry and cementing his place as a leader in the field. This new way of selling not only transformed his business but also set a new standard for how yachts are marketed today.
David’s story is about more than just yachts and sales. It’s about overcoming guilt, embracing ambition, and learning to balance the pursuit of wealth with personal fulfillment. The yacht industry gave him not just a career but a new sense of purpose, proving that reinvention is always possible. His charisma, showmanship, and willingness to adapt have carried him through challenges, making his journey one of courage and grit.
So grab your captain’s hat and listen in as we dive deep with David Seal. His story is full of humor, heart, and a little splash of luxury. Whether you’re yacht-curious or just love a good reinvention tale, this episode promises to inspire, entertain, and maybe even make you dream a little bigger.
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Get ready to laugh, cry and maybe rethink your life choices because this week, Ringo and Ridgey are joined by the indomitable Simone Holtznagel! If you don’t know her already she’s not just a GUESS Jeans model or a Playboy cover star (although, let’s be real, those are iconic), she’s also a TV personality (Australia’s Next Top Model, I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here), a new mum and Australia’s sassiest blonde.
Simone takes us back to the pre-Instagram era of modeling—yes, there was life before filters—and spills the beans on the highs and lows of being in the fashion world. From working with GUESS to gracing the cover of Playboy US, she shares hilarious behind-the-scenes stories that’ll make you realise modeling isn’t all runways and glam—it’s a whole lot of grit too.
But it’s not all fashion. Simone opens up about how the late Charlotte Dawson inspired her, teaching her about resilience and authenticity in an industry that can be, well, brutal. She also dives deep into the impact of loss and grief, balancing motherhood with her career and the hilarious chaos of everyday life (spoiler: her baby isn’t impressed with her runway strut).
Of course, Ringo and Ridgey bring their A-game with their usual repertoire of blundering questions, a bit of roasting and plenty of banter. This is more than an interview; it’s a feel-good, laugh-out-loud conversation with one of Australia’s most dynamic women. Tune in, and thank us later!
Trigger warning: themes of suicide are touched-on in this episode
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Get ready for an eye-opening, humorous, and deeply human conversation with Madison Ashton, one of Australia’s most renowned sex workers. In this episode, Madison pulls back the curtain on the realities of her profession, offering a candid look at the business, the stigma, and the unexpected tax headaches of life in her industry.
From her first steps into sex work to becoming a leading voice in the field, Madison shares her journey with wit and wisdom. She dives into the challenges of navigating relationships, self-identity, and societal expectations, all while keeping us entertained with her sharp humor and poignant reflections.
Madison debunks common myths, sheds light on the empowerment behind her career choices, and even offers some surprising insights into the economics of the industry—because yes, even sex workers have to deal with taxes!
This conversation isn’t just about sex work—it’s about resilience, independence, and owning your narrative. Madison’s charm and candor will leave you thinking differently about an often-misunderstood profession.
Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or just looking for a fascinating story, this episode will keep you laughing, learning, and maybe even questioning your preconceptions. Tune in—you don’t want to miss this one!
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What happens when a comedian swaps punchlines for hard-hitting truths about life, trauma, and mental health? In this episode, Mike King takes us on a raw, real, and unexpectedly funny journey from the highs of celebrity life to the deeper struggles lurking underneath. Spoiler: fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Mike dives into his childhood, family dynamics, and how the pursuit of validation (read: the applause addiction) shaped his identity—and not always for the better. With honesty and a touch of humor, he unpacks how addiction and trauma intersect and why finding your passion is the ultimate rebellion against societal expectations.
Meanwhile, Matthew and David tackle the elephant in the room regarding Mike’s recent comments about alcohol and drug use and addresses the misrepresentation he has experienced in the New Zealand media.
The team ask why are we so bad at talking about suicide and mental health and Mike calls out society’s tribalistic tendencies, champions hands-on experience in mental health care, and makes a strong case for connection, acceptance, and the power of simply saying, “Let’s talk.”
Prepare to laugh, reflect, and maybe even tear up as these three challenge the status quo and bring hope to some of life’s darkest corners.
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Buckle up, folks—because in this borderline chaotic episode, David, Matthew and Selina Thomson, 3 people who all have ADHD (and can’t stay on topic to save their lives), attempt to wrangle the beast that is neurodivergence. This episode is an ADHD rollercoaster that covers everything from the highs and lows of personal experiences to the ridiculous societal expectations that we all love to ignore.
Selina, a lawyer, Mum and host of her own podcast ‘Divergent AF’ who’s basically juggling life with one hand and her ADHD brain with the other, opens up about the chaos and comedy of navigating the world when your brain just doesn’t do “normal.” The boys, in the spirit of ADHD camaraderie, keep the conversation hilariously off-track while somehow managing to dig deep into the stigma, shame, and occasional moments of accidental brilliance that come with ADHD.
Ever wonder what happens when three neurodivergent minds collide? Expect tangents, lots of laughs, and some genuine “ah-ha!” moments as they dismantle everything from gender expectations to why trying to look like you’ve got it together is overrated. They talk about how society’s idea of “normal” often feels like an unfunny joke to ADHDers, and how peeling off that mask of perfectionism can be both terrifying and downright liberating.
Oh, and if you like detours, you’re in the right place. This conversation swerves into the pitfalls of traditional education, the beauty of minds that think sideways, and why imagination and creativity are the real superpowers. There’s a lot of talk about self-acceptance, finding your tribe of fellow oddballs and embracing the wonderful mess that is an ADHD life.
So if you’re here for a polished, linear conversation… you might want to skip this one. But if you’re in the mood for a lively, laugh-out-loud, ADHD-friendly dive into the beauty of being unapologetically yourself, stick around. The chaos is real, and that’s exactly what makes it awesome!
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In this heartfelt episode, Matthew, David and his mother Alison dive into the messy, emotional world of addiction—the kind that tests families to their limits but also brings out the deepest love and resilience. They look back on David’s childhood, those first, subtle signs of alcohol use, and the wild ride through university that took a darker turn. Alison opens up with raw honesty about the frustration and hope of trying to help a loved one who doesn’t want to be helped, sharing the moments that broke her heart and the ones that made her stronger. There’s laughter amidst the tears as they recount their struggles—David’s cunning attempts to hide his drinking, Alison’s relentless determination to pull him back, and the long road to rehab. Together, they show that recovery isn’t a straight line; it’s a bumpy, winding road that sometimes feels more like a rollercoaster. The conversation underscores the power of therapy, honest communication, and tough love in facing addiction’s challenges head-on. This episode is a reminder that, while addiction can strain family bonds, it can also become a journey of healing, one that brings a deeper understanding and renewed hope for everyone involved. #TheBrinkPodcast #MatthewRidge #DavidRing #Podcast #addiction
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In this revealing ep, Ringo, Ridgey and holistic healer Cooper ( Lulucooper.com ) explore the importance of connection through group work and the transformative power of vulnerability in group settings. They share personal experiences and insights on building trust, emotional regulation and the role of facilitators in creating safe spaces for sharing. After sharing a profound trauma from Matthew’s childhood the discussion delves into the complexities of sexuality shame and the journey of personal growth through group experiences, the benefit of and how to protect yourself from taking on other’s trauma.
Key talking points:
-Connection with others fosters personal growth and understanding.
-Group work can dramatically reduce recidivism rates among juveniles.
-Vulnerability in sharing can create deep empathy and connection.
-Trust is essential for open communication in group settings.
-Facilitators play a crucial role in setting the tone for group dynamics.
-Exploring sexuality and shame is a common struggle for many.
-Finding safe spaces for vulnerability is vital for healing.
-Emotional regulation is key to processing others' emotions in group settings.
-Personal growth can be accelerated through group experiences.Follow The Brink Podcast for more insightful episodes:
Instagram: @the_brink_podcast Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts: linktr.ee/thebrinkpodcast -
The boys chat with Australian Vedic meditation coach and spiritual healer Andrew Marsh (https://www.andrewmarshmeditation.com.au/) as they explore the journey of personal growth through meditation and spirituality. Marshy shares his transition from a successful winemaker to a full-time meditation teacher, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's true essence and the role of ego in our lives. The discussion delves into the balance between materialism and spirituality, the significance of meditation for everyone, and the need to transcend ego for a fulfilling life. The conversation highlights the collective ignorance surrounding spirituality and the necessity of teaching empathy and mindfulness in schools. In this conversation Matthew explores the themes of self-reflection, the nature of existence, and the transformative power of meditation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's ego, the human condition of living in the past and future, and the essence of our true nature beyond ego. Marshy advocates for meditation as a means to achieve stillness and clarity, ultimately leading to personal growth and a deeper connection with the universe.
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In this powerful episode, hosts David Ring and Matthew Ridge sit down with Lulu Cooper (https://www.lulucooper.com/), a holistic life coach, for a deep dive into the world of self-discovery, codependency, and emotional well-being. Lulu shares transformative insights into codependency, the importance of self-regulation, and how healing happens when we learn to love ourselves.
Discover how understanding codependency can reshape the way we look at addiction, relationships, and our own emotional triggers. Lulu opens up about her journey, exploring themes like self-soothing techniques, overcoming emotional trauma, and finding true self-love. Join us for an episode that’s both eye-opening and relatable.
Key Topics Covered:
The difference between addiction and codependency How to recognize codependent behavior in relationships Practical techniques for emotional regulation and self-care The importance of inner work and healing past traumasThis episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in self-help, mental health awareness and learning to overcome life’s challenges with resilience and love.
📌 Follow The Brink Podcast for more insightful episodes:
Instagram: @the_brink_podcast Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts: linktr.ee/thebrinkpodcast -
In this conversation, the boys delve into the complexities of addiction, codependency and the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships with Sydney-based Holistic Coach and Healer Lulu Cooper (https://www.lulucooper.com/) . They explore the nature of spiritual journeys, the importance of self-soothing, and the dynamics of apologies and forgiveness. The discussion highlights the significance of understanding one's sense of self and the challenges of navigating relationships while dealing with past traumas. In this conversation, the team delve into the complexities of trauma, healing, and relationships while exploring how trauma manifests in various forms as well as the importance of understanding one's past to foster healthier connections. The discussion also highlights the interplay between codependency and addiction, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and healing. The episode explores the significance of human connection and the role it plays in personal growth and emotional well-being.
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In this week's episode of The Brink Podcast, your host duo David Ring and Matthew Ridge sit down for the second time with Clinical Psychologist Selena Clark to explore the complexities of body image, focusing on body dysmorphia and its implications on mental health. They discuss the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists, delve into the impact of social media on self-perception, and introduce the ugly duckling theory, which highlights how beauty standards can affect self-worth. The conversation also touches on muscle dysmorphia, revealing how societal pressures can lead to obsessive behaviors around body image. In this conversation, the speakers explore themes of self-acceptance, the impact of cosmetic surgery on self-perception, the importance of fitness for mental health, and the complexities of beauty standards. They discuss the role of validation in shaping self-image and the dynamics of friendship beyond societal labels. The conversation also delves into the influence of ego on personal growth and the significance of trusting one's instincts.
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Ringo and Ridgey talk to top NZ female bodybuilder about the high’s and lows of competitive female bodybuilding both in New Zealand and internationally, her journey from plus-size Mum to super-Gran, her passion for training, nutrition and how exercise can be a key tool in helping you people struggling with addiction to help find moderation and control in their lives
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In this conversation of The Brink Podcast, Selena Clark, a registered clinical psychologist, and your hosts Matthew Ridge and David Ring delve into the complexities of sexuality, exploring themes of confusion, normality and the impact of societal and religious influences. We discuss the fluidity of sexual identity, the importance of open conversations about sexuality as well as the role of shame in personal acceptance. The dialogue emphasises the need for understanding and compassion in navigating one's sexual experiences and the societal pressures that accompany them.
Takeaways
It's not unnatural for you to have those feelings. Many young men experience confusion about their sexuality. Religion has historically influenced perceptions of homosexuality. Sexuality can be fluid and change over time. Open conversations about sexuality are crucial for understanding. Shame can be a natural part of the sexual experience. Societal norms shape how individuals express their sexuality. It's important to create safe spaces for discussions about sexuality. Understanding one's sexual identity can be a lifelong journey. The complexity of human experience includes navigating societal expectations. -
In this episode of The Brink Podcast, we sit down with one of New Zealand's finest content creators, Leighton Clarke – better known as UNCLE TICS!
Leighton rose to TikTok and Instagram fame, known for his unfiltered and hilarious take on life with Tourette's syndrome.
tiktok.com/@uncletics
instagram.com/uncletics/
With literally millions of followers, Leighton uses humor to spread awareness about Tourette's and dismantle the stigma surrounding the condition, all while giving people a reason to laugh.
Matthew Ridge and David Ring dive into Leighton's rise to fame, the challenges he faces and how he turned his tics into comedy gold.
Expect raw stories, side-splitting moments and more insights as we discuss everything from his viral moments to how he manages his condition in public.
Learn more about Tourette’s Syndrome:
tourettes.org.nz
Yours truly,
Ringo & Ridgey
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram:
@the_brink_podcast
linktr.ee/thebrinkpodcast
Keywords: NZ, podcast, content creator, influencer, kiwi, mental health, awareness, tourettes, tics, syndrome, comedy, rugby, ADHD, rugbyleague, living with Tourette’s, TikTok viral, overcoming adversity
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In this heartfelt and revealing episode, Matthew Ridge’s eldest son, Boston, opens up about the challenges and rewards of growing up. They hammer out the meaning of the modern family and how a broken family doesn't have to end with broken people. Joined by hosts David Ring and Matthew Ridge, Boston shares his unique experiences, from dealing with biases at school to forging his own identity. With raw honesty and moments of humour, they dive into family dynamics, the ups and downs, and how they’ve all grown together over the years. This episode is a powerful exploration of family, resilience and the complexities of life in the public eye.
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