The Fresh Minds Podcast with Anna Veale

Chris is a dynamic leader in the high performance space and supports people in becoming the best version of themselves. When he agreed to come onto the show, I was particularly interested in his views on compassion. Being someone with a strong inner critic, always looking at what I can improve on, I was excited to get inside his mind on these points. Generous in sharing his knowledge and clearly passionate about his message, it was a joy to chat with him.  You are going to love his practical tips and open nature.  Chris loves working with people who want to improve their health so they can perform better in all aspects of their lives. He’s got some expensive certificates that hang on the wall. A physiotherapy degree, a post-grad qualification in occupational health, and a Masters of Management. He has 15 years clinical experience as a physiotherapist helping thousands of people improve their health. He has a decade of experience working in Vocational Health improving the health of employees and workplaces. And 7 years experience leading teams for a large healthcare organisation at both a local and National level. He lives in Wellington with his two boys, crazy dog, and amazing wife. He understands having a busy life and how easy it is for our health, and our performance to be squeezed to the side by all the other important stuff that goes on. He has published over 600 podcast episodes on navigating challenge, overcoming obstacles, and making healthy choices. You can find out more about Chris' important work here: https://www.healthmentors.nz/about

This special episode contains some golden nuggets on what it takes to become a professional footballer, and more importantly the essential habits, behaviours and mindset required to get to and stay at the top of your game.  Jonathon first came to me as a fresh faced 13 year old with a goal to become a professional footballer. With the odds against him (fewer than 1% of aspiring footballers make it to professional standards) and life long lessons that he made along the way, Jonathon has proved that with clear focus, discipline and a tonne of support, dreams do come true. Now, at the age of 29, he is the starting goal keeper for the prestigious LA Galaxy and was presented 'defender of the season' in 2022.   Elite sportsmen and women are consistently judged for their performance on the pitch and it was wonderful to get inside the mind of such a class player to see a different perspective from that of the keyboard warriors and arm chair critics. Jonathons wise beyond his years and has so much to share to aspiring athletes and people who want to better themselves.  Jonathon and I haven't seen each other since I immigrated to New Zealand over 10-years ago so this was a wonderful reunion and an episode that I'll cherish.  I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did.

Wow! This conversation, the last in season two is up there with my favourites. Wendy is a leader in her field and it was a privilege to have her on the show. Here she share's with you, how to improve the quality of your body and mind by implementing small daily habits to become younger. She talks about how releasing suffering can create a positive ripple effect to those around us and ultimately the rest of the world. Her radiance and absolute belief in taking care of the body with commitment and discipline is contagious. I have no doubt that anyone who is feeling like age is getting in the way of them living that this conversation will change that belief and inspire a new mindset.  From fascia to fasting, we cover some important ground in this special episode and one that will leave you wanting more.  Wendy V is a mindset and wellness coach with over 32 years of experience. She offers coaching, courses, workshops, and retreats to truly help her clients optimise their physical, mental, spiritual journey. You can see more of her incredible offerings by visiting https://www.wendyv.co.nz

Wow this powerful conversation with Brad hit all the spots. From the vital importance of connection to loved ones to taking radical responsibility for our health in a way that will positively impact not just us, but those around us and our world. Brad is a passionate thought leader who is taking strong strides in changing the way with think about our health and how we must act together to help preserve our planet for generations to come. His passion, insight and intelligence left a mark on me and I hope that our conversation leaves you inspired to make small changes that will create big, positive ripples to the people around you and beyond. Brad Dixon is a holistic physiotherapist, wellness/endurance coach, and wellness content creator based at EVERFIT Physio & Coaching. His passion is helping people strive for their potential with promotion of expansive daily habits. The power for transformation is in our habits and the environment that we cultivate. "I'm a big believer in walking my talk! I eat a predominantly whole food plant based diet, meditate, have cold showers,complete functional strength work and yoga daily, while blending my swimming, and running with my EVERFIT physiotherapy business, family life, and writing for Trail Runner magazine. I've also published a book  'Holistic Human'’ going over how to have thriving humans on a healthy planet. Having a purpose driven life, while being authentic with roles is crucial to maintaining joy." Connect with Brad at www.everfit.co.nz His book can be purchased at my website https://everfit.co.nz/Store/Category/Book Instagram @everfitcoach You Tube EverFIT -  https://www.youtube.com/c/EverFITcoach/featured

Aidan Butterworth is on a mission to help athletes achieve their optimal performance through training, mindset and apparel. I met Aidan at the local gym after lots of people saying we should connect. His warmth, passion and authenticity is just one of the reasons so many people want to work with him. In this short, sharp conversation, Aidan tells us what it's like to work with elite netballers, how having a strong why and goals to work towards is the way to living a good life.  MAHI Performance are Strength & Conditioning Professionals based in Tauranga, specialising in athletic performance for Sports and Tactical Athletes. They have recently launched a wonderful initiative creating bespoke sports apparel designed by their athletes whereby the proceeds go back to the players. To find out more visit www.mahiperformance.co.nz ​

This timely conversation has been in the making for nearly a year. Rob is a very busy man, so it was great to finally meet him and pick his brain on all things Men's health and hear how Movember supports this demographic.  If you loved this conversation, and want to get involved, why not join me on 20th November for our Tauranga-based event 'Move for Life'? Check out the link below for full details on how to get involved.  https://linktr.ee/freshcoachingnz Movember is the leading charity changing the face of men’s health. They are addressing some of the biggest health issues faced by men: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. They know what works for men, and how to find and fund the most innovative research to have both a global and local impact. In 15 years they've funded more than 1,200 men’s health projects around the world. For more information, please visit: www.movember.com

Rachelle and Alana are two incredible humans on a mission to help others lead fulfilling and happy lives. This conversation covered the fundamental value of connection and how it helps us thrive in life.  We talked about the power of connection in business, our social circles, the community and importantly with ourselves. It was one of those thought-provoking conversations that left me reflecting on my own relationships.  To find out more about these women's positive impact on our world, simply click on the links below.  Rachelle Hawes: Director Your Happy Place and Home of Positive Mindset Challenge Rachelle’s Profile https://www.facebook.com/PositiveMindsetChallenge. https://yourhappyplace.org.nz/. Alana’s Swain: Co-Founder of Your Success Time linkedin.com/in/alana-swain Websites me-moir.com (Company) yoursuccessteam.co.nz/ (Personal)

This episode covers what adaptogens are, and how they can help our health in this busy world we live in.  Michele from Tonika's passion to create tasty, balanced adaptogens is based on her own personal experience after suffering burnout when she became a mum. In this conversation, Michele shares with me how to easily bring adaptogens into our everyday lives and how they can positively impact our mental constitution.  Michele began her Journey with Tonika in 2020 and diving into the world of Adaptogens, Tonic herbs and Nootropics, and she wants to share her love and knowledge of these incredible life-changing ingredients with the world. After having a baby girl and her body, mind and life-changing so dramatically; the lack of sleep and looking for that basic addition to the day to give you that pep in your step – she found the most special ingredients that have supported her, and she now wants to share this knowledge to help others feel amazing too. Her friends began to ask her for advice around specific symptoms they had and body issues they were feeling and if there was anything she could help with. It became obvious that these ancient herbal remedies have been around for thousands of years for good reason, they work! Entering her 40’s herself, Michele had tried so many remedies and trend products in the past, but this world of Adaptogens was the one that stuck and ignited a fire in her belly so strong and undeniable. From adding Lions Mane to her morning coffee and Ashwagandha to her ‘sleepy’ tea at night truly changed her life and it was time to share those findings with the world, in hope that more people would have the same life-changing effects from these blends. Michele develops and creates these unique formulas to bring the addition of Adaptogens, Nootropics and Tonic Herbs, as an easy ritual for your day. The team at Tonika love the products so much, that we are pretty sure that we continue to make these products to feed our own addiction, as well as share them with YOU.

Physio turned kicking coach Dan Vickers talks to us today about how the team at the popular premiership rugby club Saracens use vulnerability, trust and connection to get the most from their game.  This conversation inspired me to take a look at my own relationships and how I show up to them, encouraged me to look at the bigger picture when I make mistakes and how to apply their winning mantra EYG to my life.  I have no doubt you are going to love this conversation.   

From learning the art of mindfulness to choosing hard over easy, this thought-provoking interview with New Zealand's sports psychologist Zane Winslade gives you the opportunity to see life through a different lens.  There is so much value in our conversation, I can't wait for you to listen. Zane is a Mental Performance Coach who helps performers thrive amongst the obstacles that life brings. His strengths lie in preparing athletes for consistent performance under pressure, developing a flexible and optimal performance mindset for individuals and teams, as well as engaging athletes with a realistic plan dedicated to helping them achieve their dreams. To find out more about the important work Zane does and to purchase a copy of his popular mental toughness journal, visit  https://www.flowsport.co.nz Side note: There were a couple of connection issues during recording which I hope doesn't interrupt your listening too much!

Harmony is an Ayurveda & Integrative health practitioner specialising in women’s hormonal imbalances, gut health & burnout. Harmony has had more than 17 years’ experience in the health & wellness space & has helped 1000’s of women throughout that time. She is a registered nurse & health educator at Australia’s leading health retreat, a podcast host, course facilitator & business mentor. Her passion lies in educating, inspiring and empowering women to tap into their own bodies intelligence so that they can feel more confident, comfortable & connected to their mind & body. Harmony intertwines the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda & eastern medicine, with her western modern medical background and her caring spirit to guide women on their health, wealth & wellness journey.

Krish and I have shared four seasons of football together, watching our sons from the sidelines. I love a good deep and meaningful and over the years Krish and I have talked more than just the weather! I enjoy our sideline chats so much, that I asked Krish to come on the show. He is a dedicated dad of two, plays and coaches women's premier hockey and is a leader in his industry working on high profile projects and delivers exceptional results for his organisation.  Our conversation opened my eyes to a males perspective on how to manage the responsibilities that they are faced with and he gave some fantastic, realistic strategies on how to manage (and thrive) with the juggle of life. We talked about how sport is so much more than what happens on the pitch and how transferrable those skills to life.   This is a goodie and I'm sure you will draw some take always from this conversation. 

Steve and Heidi Jennings are a husband and wife team from Jennings Holistic Health Coaching. With a holistic approach, they turn their clients health around in as little as six weeks.   Most of the time, their clients have already ventured down the path of conventional medicine with little to no satisfactory answer or results. The Jennings work to identify the root cause of symptoms, then treat them safely and naturally with a 95% success rate.   Their mission is to impact the lives of 500,000 people around the world. Want to know the top foods for health? What health professionals do to keep their own physical and mental wellbeing on point? The secret detox blend?  This is the epiiode for you  You can find out more about our guests via their website: NZ Health Coach | Jennings Holistic Health Coach (jenningshealthcoach.com)

Join me on this episode as Heidi from Jennings Health and Wellness interviews me about men's mental fitness.  In this episode you will discover why I am so passionate about reaching men in the community and what they can do to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.  I was a treat to be interviewed and I hope you enjoy this episode.   

Josh joined the military at the young age of 16 and was eventually posted to Battalions Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon.  After years serving his country, he left his military career in behind and became a Monk. He spent 3 years in India studying with various Yoga Masters learning the art of mindfulness.  Since then, he has traveled the world seeking out people and experiences to further personal insight and growth. Josh is a Coach and Trainer at a national and international level and helps people to step up in their lives and activate big plans. Most recently, he has developed 'Backcountry Athletics', a wilderness and action sport training platform. This brings together his wealth of personal experience in high consequence environments with a range of high level qualifications to assist those who need a high performance body and mind for lifestyles and work in challenging and arduous situations. My conversation with Josh dives in to the power of the mind, the importance of community, the skills required to navigate life and how to use the mind to achieve greatness.  There's so much juice in this episode, enjoy!

Stacey Roche is a funny, intelligent and determined woman who, at the age of 22 led the New Zealand Boccia team to the Sydney Paralympics in 2000. Born with cerebral palsy, Stacey talks openly about her journey from childhood to becoming an athlete. We cover the hurdles disabled people face and how determination and focus leads to some extraordinary experiences. Be warned, Stacey's language is colourful and her words are powerful. We recorded this podcast spontaneously without pre planning the questions and I purposely haven't edited this conversation, so what you get is raw, heartfelt and real.  This show is not to be missed!  If you want to know more about Stacey, or just want a funny, inspiring read, check out Stacey's book 'The ups and downs of a dribbly wobbly'  Buy a signed copy by dropping Stacey a DM on Facebook @staceyroche To find out more about Boccia visit: Welcome to Boccia New Zealand Inc 

In recent years, civilians have been able to taste one of the Selection Tests that UK Special Forces recruits undertake. They can take on The Original 24Km SAS Selection Challenge in the form of The Fan Dance Race. This infamous march is the world’s oldest Special Forces test.  More than 6,500 civilians have attempted what is arguably the toughest loaded adventure race in the World. Today I talk to my big brother Mark Pilgrim, a retired business leader who, at the age of 53 first attempted the Fan Dance and 3 years later is 8-time Champion in the AEE Fan Dance Race Series.  We talk about goal setting, training, mental toughness, and the secrets to avoiding injury. This show is a great listen, not only because he's my big brother but because Mark is an example of how leading a life of purpose and direction leads to happiness.

Nigel Winterburn is a 1990’s football legend who played for many clubs including Arsenal and West Ham. He represented his country England and is a formidable defender who was arguably one of the best left backs in the English league. In this insightful podcast, Nigel talks about the importance of self belief, determination and self motivation to succeed. He shares his secret to a strong marriage and how he keeps mentally and physically fit to keep up with the demands of life.  Don't be fooled, this episode is not only for football fans, it's full of wisdom that is applicable to us all!  

In this very special season opening episode, Anna chats with Henry Fraser, accomplished mouth artist, best selling author and all time nice guy Henry Fraser about how a life changing accident shaped his life.  12 years ago, whilst on holiday with friends in Portugal, Henry dived in to the sea to cool off on a summers day as he had done many times before. On this day, he dived in and hit his head on a sandbank, leaving him unable to move his arms and legs. He endured many setbacks, and heart stopping moments in the weeks and months that followed his accident but never lost sight of the little things done consistently that would lead to his recovery. Henry's story is what super heroes are made of and this podcast gives you a taste of the qualities you need to make life great.  For more information on Henry and his work, visit: www.henryfraserart.com You can buy his two best selling books at most leading book stores. The Little Big Things The Power in you For more information on the Spartan Habit Changer Programme and other ways to work with Anna, visit: www.freshcoaching.me  @annavealecoach FB @freshcoachingnz Insta