WWR Episode 8 In Memory of Pat Wallis - A life well lived
The eighth episode of “Weekend Warriors Rock” is a tribute to Pat Wallis, a resilient man, father, father-in law and grandfather who lived to the age of 93 and inspired the "Weekend Warriors Rock" series. His daughter Rosie and grandson Alex discuss his life journey, beginning with his upbringing on an English farm during World War II before his move to New Zealand in 1956. The conversation highlights his remarkable longevity, which may be attributed to his consistent routine of physical activity, such as daily walks and yoga, alongside a disciplined, vegetable-rich diet. Pat’s sharp mind was maintained through social engagement, a cheeky sense of humour, and daily cognitive challenges like word puzzles and reading. Our reflections on Pat’s life well lived illustrate how maintaining a sense of purpose and adapting to life's transitions can foster a high quality of life in one's later years.
Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-8/
15 May 2026
WWR Episode 7 Antje Niven - Penguin in the desert
The guest of the seventh Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series is my long-time friend Antje. Antje, a professional in people and culture with a background in neuroscience, shares her life and personal philosophies and practical strategies for balancing a demanding career with raising three children. She talks about the "penguin in the desert" metaphor to encourage everyone to find environments where they can truly excel rather than struggle in environments less suitable to them. We talk about the importance of self-care, specifically the "piece of cake" method of prioritising personal time before attending to the needs of others. Antje also speaks to the value of resilience, particularly with regard to parenting allowing children the freedom to fail and learn from their own experiences. We hope that our conversation will be an insightful guide on maintaining mental well-being and authenticity through movement, humour, and honest communication.
Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-7/
29 Nov 2025
WWR Episode 6 Amanda Gray - Routine & resilience
The guest of the sixth Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series is the wonderful Amanda. Amanda is a multidisciplinary artist with a background in visual arts, music, and landscape design illustration. Amanda shares her strategies for managing her complex health journey, including chronic fatigue and mental health challenges, with emphasis on the importance of maintaining routines. Amanda also explains how her dogs help enforce her routine, and she discusses the significance of positive mindset, hydration, nutrition, and listening to her body to avoid burnout, even if it means cancelling commitments. Our conversation also touches on Amanda’s career achievements, the importance of celebrating small victories and cultivating a supportive social environment both offline and through online allies who share similar struggles.Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-6/
1 Nov 2025
WWR Episode 5 - Liz Auina-Jones - Fight with your brain
The guest of the fifth Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series is the inspiring Liz. Liz shares her personal background and family history, including her parents' migration to New Zealand and the challenges she faced, which led her to pursue studies in politics and sociology. Our conversation explores Liz’s approach to life and personal development, focusing on her commitment to mastery, spiritual practice, physical health (walking and grounding), and the importance of connection with her family, friends, and ancestors. Liz also shares her journey to turn "trauma into triumph" and how her own experience has inspired her to pursue research into rheumatic fever health literacy for Māori and Pasifika communities. Finally, Liz also reflects on the benefit of mentors and daily journaling for accountability and mental clarity.Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-5/
4 Oct 2025
WWR Episode 4 - Lynne Miller - Never waste a good crisis
The guest of the fourth Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series is the inspiring Lynne. Lynne shares her personal journey, from being a PE teacher in the UK to moving to New Zealand and working as a business transformation expert in various ‘people and culture’ roles. She emphasises the importance of exercise and nutrition for maintaining well-being, especially during difficult times. Lynne shares her strategies for staying resilient, including the "80% rule" for diet and exercise and the philosophy of "this too shall pass" during adversity. Lynne also reflects on her biggest achievement being her children and successfully navigating significant personal and professional challenges over the past 18 months.Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-4/
5 Sept 2025
WWR Episode 3 - Kristi Palmer - A journey of curiosity and resilience
The guest of the third Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series is the fabulous Kristi. Kristi shares her personal and professional journey, talks about her childhood in various locations and her path to higher education. She shares her passion for creative arts like photography and ceramics, and her commitment to physical fitness, outlining her past as a competitive swimmer, then runner and now Hyrox training. Kristi also shares her insights into maintaining well-being, highlighting the importance of continuous learning, curiosity, and allowing the brain time to rest and process. Our discussion also touches on her Master's degree which she pursued to set a positive example for her daughter, and her strategies for navigating both difficult and successful periods in life, emphasising reflection and maintaining routines.
Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-3/
9 Aug 2025
Episode 2 - Dawnie Couchman - Life, gratitude, and resilience
The guest of the second Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series is the fabulous Dawnie. My conversation with Dawnie focuses on Dawnie's life experiences, including her career transition from the police force in the Solomon Islands to healthcare in New Zealand, and her personal philosophy emphasising positivity, gratitude, and community. She discusses her love for running as a coping mechanism, particularly through a past cancer diagnosis, and her appreciation for learning about diverse cultures. Our conversation also touches on Dawnie’s family life and the challenges she faced in supporting her children's futures, showcasing her resilience and inspiring outlook.Access the full show notes for this episode at : https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-2/
10 Jul 2025
Episode 1 - Brett Oetgen- Reflexivity and lifelong learning
The Weekend Warriors Rock podcast series launches with aninspiring conversation with Brett, an entrepreneur and educator, who talks about his approach to self-development and leadership. He highlights the importance of a science-based approach to personal improvement. Brett alsoshares practical strategies like daily self-auditing (reflexivity) and non-sleep deep relaxation for managing stress and enhancing decision-making, alongside the value of acknowledging achievements and embracing a circular viewof time. The conversation underscores a commitment to lifelong learning and continuous self-improvement in both personal and professional spheres.
Access the full show notes for this episode at powerx2.co.nz (https://powerx2.co.nz/weekend-warriors-rock-episode-1/)
12 Jun 2025
"Weekend Warriors Rock" listener invite
Host Dr. Sylvia Hach introduces the Weekend Warriors Rock podcast and invites listeners to share their stories of pursuing passions outside of their weekday jobs.
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