Did you know that TikTok users spend an average of 95 minutes per day on the platform, which is higher than any other social media platform? Judaxx is a Cook Island Māori Content Creator who produces comedy skits and everyday life content. With a massive following of over 850k, Judaxx won the NZ Content Creator of the Year in 2023 at the TikTok Awards. She joins Maddie Johnson and Leo Magri for a chat on the ALTBAYS Table Talk podcast. Drop us a question and watch it live here now!

Show 265 - Judaxx (Cook Island Māori Content Creator)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Maddie Johnson and Leo Magri)

Judaxx is a Cook Island Māori Content Creator based in South Auckland. She produces Comedy Skits, every day life and many more different types of content solo, with mates and Whānau.

Judaxx won NZ Content Creator of the year at the TikTok awards in 2023. She has a massive following on social media and is all about spreading the word about pasifika and Māori culture to the world.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Did you used to watch Power Rangers as a child? Or maybe you’re still a fan of the series? Tessa is a Kiwi actress who starred as Izzy Garcia, the Green Ranger on Netflix’s “Power Rangers: Dino Fury,” which has been renewed for its 3rd season, “Cosmic Fury.” She is also a multi-disciplinary writer, singer/songwriter, and musician who trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and has worked in film and theatre in both the US and NZ. Tessa joins Leo and Christine on ALTBAYS Table Talk for a good korero. Watch it here now!

Show 265 - Tessa Rao (Kiwi Actress)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Christine Threadgold and Leo Magri)

Tessa is a Kiwi actress of European and Indian descent. She starred as Izzy Garcia, the Green Ranger on Netflix’s “Power Rangers: Dino Fury”, renewed for its 3rd season, “Cosmic Fury”. 

She also performed in Indian Ink Theatre Company’s “Dirty Work: An Ode to Joy”, which will begin its 2nd national tour in May. 

A multi-disciplinary writer, singer/songwriter and musician, Tessa trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and has worked in film and theatre within both the US and NZ since.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Do you love video games? Ever wondered how they're made? Meet Amber Taylor, an influential entrepreneur, CEO, and Co-Founder of ARA Journeys. She advocates for diversity in the tech industry and has led her company in creating innovative and transformative platforms that combine immersive technologies and artificial intelligence with the knowledge of the natural world and Māori culture. Join Blair Murray and Leo Magri for this insightful chat, and send us your questions for Amber. Watch it here now!

Show 264- Amber Taylor (ARA Journeys CEO/Tech Pioneer)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Blair Murray and Leo Magri)

Amber Taylor (Ngāti Whātua, Te Rarawa, Ngapuhi, Ngāti Mutunga, Te Āti Awa)  is an influential entrepreneur, tech pioneer, and advocate for diversity in the tech industry. As the CEO and Co-Founder of ARA Journeys, she has led the company in creating innovative and transformative platforms that combine immersive technologies and artificial intelligence with the knowledge of the natural world and Māori culture. Under her leadership, ARA Journeys has been recognised as a leading digital tech innovator, with award-winning platforms that are changing the way we approach education, health, and tourism. Amber's work emphasises meaningful connections, improved learning experiences, and exploration while amplifying underrepresented indigenous voices in the immersive games industry.

Beyond her role at ARA Journeys, Amber's commitment to diversity in the tech sector takes centre stage. She actively mentors aspiring women founders through her involvement with NZ Business Mentors and co-founded the Women Tech Founders NZ network, where she empowers and guides women, bridging gender gaps and fostering future leaders. Serving as a seasoned board director and business mentor, Amber passionately advocates for Māori and Pasifika talent, tirelessly working towards greater representation and inclusion of underrepresented communities in the tech space.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Do you know what the Fast Track Bill that the NZ government is seeking to approve in three days is, and how it can affect you? Denis Tegg, a lawyer and former Regional Councillor who’s been advocating for the environment for many years, comes to the ALTBAYS Table Talk to chat with Roimata Taimana and Leo Magri about the Fast Track Bill, coastal hazards in Aotearoa, water quality, the threat to .the New Zealand dairy industry and our economy from precision fermentation, and much more! Watch it here now and send us a question!

Show 263- Denis Tegg (Former Regional Councillor/Lawyer)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Roimata Taimana and Leo Magri)

Denis Tegg is a resident of Thames with an impressive 50-year career as a lawyer. Denis brings a wealth of experience, having served on the Waikato Regional Council and actively advocated for public transport in Thames-Coromandel. His environmental activism, including his involvement with Coromandel Watchdog since 1980, has led to notable legal victories and a focus on coastal hazards and climate change.

In this episode, Denis delves into pressing topics such as the Fast Track Bill, coastal hazards nationwide, and electric and autonomous vehicles. He also sheds light on water quality and the looming threat to New Zealand's dairy industry from precision fermentation and the convergence of several disruptive technologies, renewable energy, AI, robotics and others how they will transform our economy and might – just might prevent the worst of climate change.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Are you a kina fan? Did you know that the global kina industry is worth half a billion dollars a year? Dion is a commercial kina diver passionate about the moana. He was a part of the TV show ‘Spiky Gold Hunters’ and alongside his partner Reremoana, runs the successful Coasty Kidds, which is all about teaching the next generation how to look after our environment. Join Leo Magri and the surfer/teacher Sean Butler for this top chat at the ALTBAYS Table Talk. Watch it here now and send your questions!

Show 262- Dion Aupouri-Akuhata (Commercial Kina Diver/Coasty Kidds)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Sean Butler and Leo Magri)

Dion Aupouri-Akuhata isn't just a commercial kina diver; he's deeply connected to the ocean and its treasures. Raised on Aotearoa New Zealand's coastal waters, Dion's journey into commercial diving stemmed from a childhood fascination with the sea.

His passion for free-diving, spearfishing, and surfing led him to admire spearfishing champion Dwane Herbert, eventually inspiring him to take the plunge into commercial kina diving around 2018. However, Dion's path took an unexpected turn when he became a cast member of the real-life action series, "Spiky Gold Hunters."

Despite the risks and the spotlight, Dion remains committed to showcasing the challenges and rewards of commercial diving while advocating for water safety. With a family history deeply rooted in commercial diving, Dion faces the perils of his profession with unwavering resolve, from near-blackouts to encounters with Great White Sharks.

Beyond his exploits in the ocean, Dion is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and passion with others. Through free-diving safety sessions and educational programs like "Tamariki of the Tides," he empowers coastal communities with the skills to navigate the waters safely.

Dion also shares his adventures through his lifestyle blog, Coasty_Kidds, on Facebook and Instagram, as he explores the depths of the ocean, embraces the challenges of his profession, and champions water safety for all.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Are you brave enough to be your knife thrower partner’s assistant? What about daring to swallow a sword as a party trick? Rachel Atlas, an international circus performer and writer, has showcased her talents in over 18 countries across 4 continents. She was part of Ozzfest and, in 2022, debuted her autobiographical solo theatre show, 'Gag Reflex,' at NZ Fringe, winning the 'Best in Fringe' and 'Tour Ready-Adelaide' awards. Rachel joins the ALTBAYS Table Talk podcast to discuss her unique lifestyle with Elvisa Van Der Leden and Leo Magri. Watch the live episode now and send us your questions!

Show 261 - Rachel Atlas (Sword Swallower/Writer)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Elvisa Van Der Leden and Leo Magri)

Rachel Atlas is an international circus performer, event emcee and writer.  

Born in London and currently living in Aotearoa, she’s performed in over 18 different countries on 4 different continents.  She began her career touring the USA with the travelling vaudeville show The Pretty Things Peepshow, a highlight of which was touring with Motley Crue, Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne on Ozzfest 2010.  Subsequent to this she founded her own touring show The Death Do Us Part Danger Show and they performed all over the world, bringing the vaudevillian art of knife throwing kicking and screaming into the 21st century.  

More recently she produced the large-scale gothic cabaret show Cirque Du Mort in Glasgow, Scotland.  She has been a sword swallower for over a decade and is currently the only active sword-swallower in Aotearoa.   In 2022 she wrote and debuted her autobiographical solo theatre show, Gag Reflex, at NZ Fringe and  won the  “Best In Fringe” and “Tour Ready-Adelaide” awards.  

Subsequently she was awarded a residency at BATS Theatre where she devised and wrote her second play Tales From The Strypt which debuted at NZ Fringe 2023 and featured the combined words and stories of six Aotearoa sex workers.  Gag Reflex has also been performed at Tahi Festival in Wellington and the Right Royal Cabaret Festival in Taranaki. 

Rachel lives in Wellington and is currently working on a new circus show called the Dangerous Darlings with the reknowned nz circus performer Laura Oakley, as well as writing her next play and her first novel.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

How close are you to your school friends? Benji, the lead singer of the band Flaxxies, has been playing music with his high school mates for a while, and now they’re climbing the ladder to become one of the most loved bands by the youth in Aotearoa NZ. Benji joins Leo Magri and singer Yazmin Todd 'FĒI LÍN' for a chat about playing at the most iconic festival in the country, recording with the legendary Tiki Tane, and much more!

Show 260 - Benji Humphries (Flaxxies Singer/Songwriter)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (featuring Yazmin Todd and Leo Magri)

Benji Humphries is the lead singer of the New Zealand Surf Rock band Flaxxies. He was a guest on our podcast a couple of years ago (episode #24), and a lot has happened to Benji and his groovy band since then. 

From playing at iconic festivals around Aotearoa to having an EP produced by the legendary Tiki Tane, Benji is having a blast consolidating his musical career while enjoying life and the sun in Coromandel whenever possible. 

Benji comes back to our show to chat with Leo Magri and the super talented singer/songwriter, Yazmin Todd 'FĒI LÍN'. 

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

What is the importance of Māori activism in Aotearoa New Zealand nowadays? Te Rangimoaho Iti is a Māori artist and activist, grandson of Tame Iti. Te Rangimoaho is all about crafting his photography skills and capturing the essence of culture and identity through his lenses. He comes to the ALTBAYS Table Talk to kōrero with Leo Magri and Lachie Holton from the aotearoahistory_ Instagram page. Watch it now and drop your questions!

Show 259 - Te Rangimoaho Iti (Māori Artist and Activist)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (feat. Lachie Holton and Leo Magri)

Te Rangimoaho, Mokopuna of Tame iti, a young Māori activist and emerging artist, hails from the vibrant community of Kura Kaupapa, where he honed his passion for creativity and advocacy. 

As the former Head Boy of Whakatane High School, he demonstrated leadership and dedication to his peers and community. Alongside his studies, he developed his artistic talents, mastering the craft of photography through self-teaching, capturing the essence of culture and identity through his lens. 

With a profound commitment to social justice and cultural revitalisation, Te Rangimoaho seamlessly weaves his artistic expressions with his activism, embodying the spirit of change and resilience. 

Keep an eye on this rising star as he continues to make waves in the art world and the fight for indigenous rights.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Being a full-time artist in New Zealand is not an easy task, but some say it is possible! Kwyze became a professional soccer player at the age of 16. Then, he immersed himself in the world of dance, performing with many international acts, and now he is recording his own music, making waves in the Auckland scene. He comes to have a chat with the ALTBAYS Table Talk crew tonight. Watch it here now!

Show 258 - Kwyze (NZ Artist/Professional Dancer)

Welcome to the ALTBAYS Table Talk (Feat. Leo Magri)

Kwyze is a New Zealand artist from Taranaki. He was a professional soccer player at the age of 16 playing in the city of Dallas/Texas in America. 

He ran off the field and made his way into the dance scene. He then received a 2 year Scholarship that moved him over to Melbourne. 

When the scholarship finished he became a professional back up dancer for two years performing for Maja Salvador/Jay Sean/The Fugues/Vice Ganda & more with a company/dance-crew he created called UBM.

He is now introducing new music to the world. He has experienced so much in this world traveling, but one thing that took him a while to understand was the amount of people that were stuck in thought.

All the lyrics in his tracks have the effect to teleport you through the cosmos, as they all come from a thoughtless space that he has complete trust in. He believes once you are in touch and comfortable with your inner self - depending on the degree of that acceptance, whatever you do in this world will reflect from the quality of that acceptance. 

His main intention of being an artist is to share that you can go through the lowest lows & the highest highs, but as the rollercoaster of life flows and changes ever so quickly, no matter the speed of such change. 

It's completely possible to remain as the observer as that's where true creativity unfolds in life

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Being a creative person is not the only thing that makes you a good writer! Stephanie Parkyn is a NZ best-selling author of three historical novels that have taken her to Europe, Australia, and the Pacific, exploring the stories of women who haven't been able to speak for themselves. Formerly a freshwater ecologist, an artist, and now a writer, she lives in an off-grid home in the bush in remote northern Coromandel. She comes to the ALTBAYS Table Talk to chat with Chloe Watts from Blueberry Co. and Leo Magri. Watch it here now!

Show 257 - Stephanie Parkyn (Author/PhD Biological Sciences)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Chloe Watts and Leo Magri)

Stephanie Parkyn has wanted to write fiction since she was a child growing up in a book-loving family in Christchurch, New Zealand. 

She is now the author of three historical fiction novels inspired by the desire to bring women's history and experiences into the spotlight. Her first novel 'Into the World' was published to wide acclaim in 2017 and longlisted for the Tasmania Book Prize of the Tasmanian Premier's Literary Awards.

Her bestselling second novel 'Josephine's Garden' told the story of the woman who became Empress of France. Her third novel 'The Freedom of Birds' completes this series of connected works with a backdrop of French history that began with the true story of a woman who disguised herself as a man on a journey around the world. 

Stephanie left a rewarding career as a freshwater ecologist to follow her dream of travelling, making art and storytelling. After ten years living and exploring in Australia, she now writes from her home in a bush-clad valley overlooking the sea on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Did you know that 'Sione’s Wedding' is New Zealand's 6th highest-grossing movie ever? Chris Graham is an award-winning film and TV director who has directed Kiwi classics like 'The Panthers,' 'The Ferryman,' 'Sione’s Wedding,' 'Power Rangers' for Netflix, and 'Scribe: The Return of the Crusader' for TVNZ+, among many others! Graham joins the ALTBAYS Table Talk to korero with Leo Magri and another legend from the industry, Pete May, 'The Flying Kiwi.' Watch it here now and drop us a question!

Show 256 - Chris Graham (NZ Film and TV Director)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Pete May and Leo Magri)

Chris is an award-winning New Zealand film and television director. Highly technical, he is exceptional at getting great performances from both unknown new actors to international A-listers.

Of his two major feature films, his acclaimed rom-com ‘Sione’s Wedding’ is New Zealand’s 6th highest grossing movie ever. he followed that with psychological horror film, ‘The Ferryman’, and then co-directed the film, ‘Born to Dance’ starring Stan Walker and collaborating with Parris Goebal.

Chris is also one of New Zealand’s most awarded music video directors,

working with major artists across a prolific 15 years. Winning 3 NZMA awards for Scribe, Dei Hamo, Smashproof, as well as shooting music videos in both Samoa and LA for Savage. 

More recently, Chris has been directing 12 episodes of ‘Power Rangers’ for Netflix, and the final 2 episodes of ‘The Panthers’ for TVNZ. He then turned to longform documentaries, directing ‘Kia Ora, good evening’ with Mike McRoberts for TV3, and then ‘Scribe, the return of the Crusader’ for TVNZ+, for which he won best factual director at the NZTV awards, 2022.

Having lived and worked in New York, London, Los Angeles and Auckland, Chris is a global multi-genre director with a back catalogue of filmmaking spanning 30 years. He is a rare local director, who spans across all genres and disciplines, embracing the challenge of each. 

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Do you believe that everyone deserves a second chance? James was left paraplegic after being shot in the chest by the police for not ceasing fire at them. Sixteen years later, James, currently undertaking a welding apprenticeship, joins the ALTBAYS Table Talk to share his journey and discuss accepting change and personal growth. Join Leo Magri and Azzie McLean for this inspiring conversation. Watch it here now!

Show 255 - James Samuells (Sir Struggle is Real )

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Azzie McLean and Leo Magri)

In 2018, James made national news after being shot by the police for not ceasing fire at them. He was hit in the chest and sentenced to 10 years in jail. James was left a paraplegic and his life changed drastically from that moment on.

Years later, James is living a new life. Currently undertaking a welding apprenticeship, James enjoys sharing stories about resilience and accepting change.

He joins the ALTBAYS Table Talk to discuss his past, his experiences in jail, and his focus on personal growth.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

South Korean music is not all about K-pop! Newko, “The Chinga Style,” is a rapper, singer, lyricist, composer, and music producer with New Zealand and Korean heritage. He is the first Asian hip-hop artist to achieve success on New Zealand's mainstream hip-hop and R&B radio stations and Korean music site charts. Newko comes to the ALTBAYS Table Talk to chat with Ed Mikaere and Leo Magri about hip-hop culture and much more! Watch it here now!

Show 254 - Newko “The Chinga Style” (Rapper/Music Producer)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Ed Mikaere and Leo Magri)

Newko, also known as 'The Chinga Style,' is an exceptional rapper, singer, lyricist, composer, and music producer. He founded 64D Production in 2004 and established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry. Raised in West Auckland, New Zealand, Newko's stage name is derived from his New Zealand Korean heritage.

Notably, Newko is the first Asian hip-hop artist to achieve success on New Zealand's mainstream hip-hop and R&B radio stations and Korean music site charts. His influence extends beyond his solo career, as he has produced multiple artists from New Zealand, Korea, Japan, and the United States.

With diverse musical abilities, Newko proficiently plays drums, bass, piano, guitar, clarinet, and other instruments. His music style transcends genres, blending elements of hip-hop, rock, classical, punk, jazz, and more.

Music has been a core part of Newko's life from a young age, influenced by his musical family background. His father, a versatile musician skilled in various instruments, particularly guitar, has over 200 compositions to his credit. Newko received early guidance in music from his father, learning guitar and drums. Additionally, his mother, a professional opera singer, provided vocal training, and his sister, a pianist and composer with a master's degree in popular music and sound engineering from Auckland University, also played a significant role in his artistic development.

Newko's educational journey includes graduating from the New Zealand Music and Audio Institute (MAINZ) with a major in drums/vocals and studying popular music at Auckland University.

As an artist, Newko or 'The Chinga Style' made history with his debut EP album 'I'm Here' and hit track 'Let Me Show You' in 2010, becoming the first Asian New Zealander to reach the top 10 on music charts in South Korea. He continued to captivate audiences with his unique sound and production skills, releasing two more EP albums and four single albums.

His creativity extends beyond solo projects, as he produced several artists, including members of his crew, 64D. On November 25, 2022, he made a successful comeback with the dazzling single 'Light it,' featuring Mr.Sicc, and embarked on a successful single release tour across New Zealand. 

As he gears up for the release of his upcoming EP album (April 24), Newko invites listeners on a journey through soundscapes that promise to be both groovy and profound.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Did you know that back in the day, tohunga tā moko (tattoo experts) were greatly respected and paid with treasures such as weapons, cloaks and greenstone? Te Haunui  is specialised in tā moko and portrait tattoos of Māori gods he’s interpreted. He is a humble student of art and philosophy and comes to our to the ALTBAYS Table Talk to chat with Leo and the visual artist Roimata Taimana. Watch it here now!

Show 253 - Te Haunui Tuna (Tā Moko Artist)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Roimata Taimana and Leo Magri)

Te Haunui Tuna is a Tūhoe artist currently based in Tauranga. He’s spent his whole life honing his artistic skills exploring a myriad of disciplines. He spends most of his work time tattooing. He specialises in tā moko and portrait tattoos of Māori gods he’s interpreted. He is vegan and atheist, which isn’t a common combination you hear with a Māori moko artist. He’s inspired by people who put themselves out there and those who are always willing to learn. He remains a humble student of art and philosophy.

Check ou Te Haunui work at www.tehaunuiart.com

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Who’s your favorite superhero? Bram Wigglesworth, the man behind Whitianga Comics and Collectables, has been buying, selling, and trading comic books, action figures, sports, and trading cards for the last 10 years. Bram's passion for comics and collectibles runs deep! He joins Leo and Henry Newton for a chat about pop culture, collectibles, great superhero movies, comics, and much more! Watch it here now

Show 252 - Bram Wigglesworth (Whitianga Comics and Collectables)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Henry Newton and Leo Magri)

Bram Wigglesworth, the man behind Whitianga Comics and Collectables, has been buying, selling, and trading comic books, action figures, sports, and trading cards around the North Island for the last 10 years. With a small personal collection of books, Bram's passion for comics and collectibles runs deep.

Join us as we dive into the world of rare cards and comics, exploring Bram's experiences in the industry, his personal collection, and the challenges and joys of being a collector and seller. Watch it here now.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

What are the challenges of starting a new business? Josh and Donny, active creatives, run the Garden Music shop in Thames. They are talented musicians who also host national and international live acts in the Hauraki region. Join them on ALTBAYS Table Talk as they discuss running a small business, the challenges of making a living as artists, their passion for music, and much more!

Show 251 - Jessica “Donny” Paton and Joshua Armstrong (Garden Music)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Leo Magri)

Joshua (He/Him) and Jessica (She/They), the duo behind Garden Music, a cosy music shop nestled in the heart of Thames, serving the vibrant communities of the Coromandel and Hauraki districts. As passionate advocates for the transformative power of live music, Joshua and Jessica have set their sights on fostering a sense of community through their combined efforts.

Beyond the walls of Garden Music, both Joshua and Jessica are working musicians and artists.
Their shared love for the arts has driven them to create safe and collaborative spaces for local talent to flourish. Through numerous organised gigs in the region, their passion is holding space for people to collectively express themselves and collaborate creatively.

With a deep commitment to nurturing the local creative spirit, Joshua and Jessica are intent on inspiring others to embrace the magic of live music.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

What is your favourite animated movie? Brandon has been in the film industry for years, working for the massive Warner Bros. and being a part of epic movies like 'The Matrix' and 'Looney Tunes: Back In Action'. He then ventured into virtual reality, combining his film and animation expertise with a passion for history. His son, the multi-instrumentalist, Rhodes Hull also joins us on this chat with the cinematographer Ysabella Smith and Leo Magri. Watch it here now!

Show 250 - Brandon Hull (Animation/Virtual Reality) and Rhodes Hull (Multi-instrumentalist)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Ysabella Smith and Leo Magri).

Hull, a Boise, Idaho native, boasts over 30 years of experience spanning live music, film production, animation, documentary films, and virtual reality. Starting his journey in Los Angeles in 1993, Hull entered film school at California State University, Northridge, while also working for iconic venues like the House of Blues. Notable accomplishments include producing the award-winning film 'The Silent Movie' starring Billy Connolly.

After film school, Hull interned at Warner Bros. Feature Productions, contributing to films like 'The Matrix' before delving into animation with projects such as 'Osmosis Jones' and 'Looney Tunes: Back In Action.' Transitioning to documentary production, he worked on impactful films like 'To Whom it May Concern: The Life of Nancy Kwan.'

Hull then ventured into virtual reality, combining his film and animation expertise with a passion for history. His work includes immersive tours for NASA, Mount Vernon, Monticello, and over 150 American battlefields. Currently, he's preparing to remake the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory tour and capture 360 views of the Mars Perseverance Rover in the Jezero Crater.

Upcoming projects include the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, Overseas Buildings for the Department of State, and a documentary on urban enslavement in New Orleans. Hull continues to push boundaries in storytelling and technology, leaving a lasting impact across diverse industries.

Rhodes Hull is a 22 year old multi instrumentalist from Boise, Idaho who writes and produces the majority of his work. When playing live, he gathers his friends to form Rhodes Hulls Magic Band, a vibrant musical group known for their electric fusion of surf rock, psychedelic rock, whimsical rock, and scalawag rock. Their unique sound can be described as a captivating blend of the Beatles’ infectious melodies and the Doors’ enigmatic vibes. From catchy surf guitar licks to mind-bending psychedelic journeys, their music takes you on a captivating ride filled with nostalgia and imaginative storytelling.

His new single, “I’m the Monkey Man” is available now on all streaming platforms!

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up? Yazmin Todd (FĒI LÍN) is a horse trainer, support worker, and musician with a deep love and curiosity for animals, art, music, writing, and the environment. Join Yazmin, Leo, and our dear friend, the talented artist Emma Evangeline Gustafson, for an chat on the ALTBAYS Table Talk. 

Show 249 - Yazmin Todd “FĒI LÍN” - Musician/Horse Trainer 

Yazmin Todd (FĒI LÍN) is a 24 year old, horse trainer, support worker and indie jazz folk musician of Singaporean Chinese and NZ European descent. She was born in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, with an upbringing shaped by the lush landscapes of Piha beach and the Tutukaka coast, Yazmin has lived in the Coromandel for the past 4 years, always feeling at home nestled in the bush with the sea in sight. 

Having a childhood close to nature has kept her close to the nature of her heart, and to follow her passions. She has a great love and curiosity for animals, art, music, writing, the environment, holistic health, and living (Ayurveda, Yoga and Permaculture). 

Since moving to the Coromandel area, she has ventured into the joy of creating and sharing music. She released her first single last year, “The River Beneath Us,” and plans to release her latest recorded song, “Love is a Ladder” later this year. She is fascinated by the many lives and identities we can have within life and getting to meet the various versions of herself as she grows on her journey.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Did you know that intuitive business consultants teach their clients to align their ideas and emotions with positive energy? Kaitlyn, an author, dōTERRA leader, and intuitive business consultant, lives life to the fullest. She joins Altbays Table Talk to chat with Christine Threadgold and Leo Magri about embodiment, health, productivity, and much more! Watch it here now!

Show 248 – Kaitlyn Gooch (Intuitive Business Consultant)

Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Christine Threadgold and Leo Magri).

Kaitlyn has led a rich and full life, sharing her experiences and light, perceiving things in unique and relatable ways.

She is an author who released her first book, “It Starts With You,” in 2020. Also, an intuitive business consultant, dōTERRA leader, and celebrant (celebrating all of life), she lives for the expansiveness under the stars on a cloudless night or waking up to see the sunrise over the ocean.

Kaitlyn is obsessed with embodiment, efficiency, health, and habits because she believes these elements create a healthier, longer, and more joyful life.

If you're not having fun, then what's the point? She fully and truly believes that life is here to be lived, fully and out loud.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

The place we live, combined with our cultural background, can be a massive inspiration for artistic work. Caitlin Moloney is an acclaimed multidisciplinary artist, Australian-born, of Celtic, Iberian, and Northwest European descent. She discovered the Coromandel clay community at Driving Creek Railway and Potteries in 2005 and was taught skills by local and international artists. Caitlin joins for a kōrero at the ALTBAYS Table Talk with another top artist, Emma Evangeline, and Leo Magri. 

Show 247 – Caitlin Moloney (Multidisciplinary Artist)

Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (feat. Emma Evangeline and Leo Magri)

  Caitlin Moloney is an Australian born multidisciplinary artist of Celtic, Iberian and north west European descent. Her early exposure to multiculturalism, community care and social justice has instilled in her a deep curiosity to explore an integrated culture in a colonised world. In her making Caitlin turns repeatedly to the rhythm and shapes found in nature, our plants and animals - and their constant renewal.

Pattern has been with Caitlin since she was a small child.  When drifting off to sleep at night she would imagine every piece of treasure that ever sunk to the bottom of the ocean tucked away in her garden. She envisioned piles of glistening gold, colourful fabric and jewels that could be draped all over her body.  There was nothing she wanted more than to be surrounded by beautiful things and today, as a full-time artist living in the tranquil Coromandel, New Zealand, Caitlin embodies that vision.

Growing up in Brisbane, Australia,  Caitlin struggled with being highly sensitive and yearned for an elusive sense of safety away from this fast paced culture, which only strengthened her inner world.  Caitlin's sensitivity to her environment has given her an acute appreciation of the importance of the wellbeing experienced our personal and public spaces. 

   Arriving in Aotearoa in 2004, at age twenty-six, Caitlin instantly connected with the Coromandel and was struck by the peaceful nature of the landscape.  She felt like her body could relax, finally, after running on empty for so long.   

   Finding the Coromandel clay community at Driving Creek Railway and Potteries in 2005, Caitlin was taught skills by local and international artists. Driving Creek is an environment shaped by living so close to the earth, in rhythm with the land. This has formed a community of unconventional makers, supporting Caitlin's creative growth with grassroots learning.

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Did you know that NZ’s film industry generates about US$2.08 billion in GDP annually? Yssy is a multifaceted filmmaker who produces, directs, shoots, promotes, and photographs, working with the top artists like Ladyhawke, Jonathan Bree, Princess Chelsea, and Chris Mac, as well as mainstream TV channels. She comes to chat with Beth Claire and Leo about media, the film industry, and living overseas. 

 Show 246 – Ysabella Smith (Filmmaker)

 Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (feat. Beth Claire and Leo Magri)

Ysabella Smith is a kiwi Filmmaker with a passion for music, art, film, and photography. With over 6 years of professional experience in Film & Television, Ysabella has worked on a wide range of projects, from music videos to commercials, short films to documentaries. 

Yssy is multifaceted producing, directing, shooting, promoting DJing and photographing. Working with the likes of Ladyhawke, Jonathan Bree, Princess Chelsea and Chris Mac.

She started a production company (CentralFilm) in Auckland before jetting off to London to pursue more broadcast and networking opportunities after spending the summer at home in the Coromandel.

Yssy joins us to discuss the tales of Creativity and Career in Media and living abroad.

https://www.ysabellasmith.com

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

What’s your favorite Fat Freddy’s Drop tune? Mark Williams, aka MC Slave, is a prolific broadcaster. He serves as the MC for Fat Freddy’s Drop, runs a weekly show on 95bFM, is the station voice for Flava Radio in Auckland, and is highly involved in the film industry, also directing music videos. Mark comes to the ALTBAYS Table Talk for a chat, joined by the legendary DJ Bobby Brazuka from Latinaotearoa who also owns of the iconic Ponsonby Social Club.  

Show 245 – Mark Williams (Fat Freddy’s Drop) 

Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (feat. Bobby Brazuka and Leo Magri)

Mark James Williams aka M.C. Slave/ aka Uncle Mark aka Logg Cabin has touched on, and triumphed in, most areas of the media during a career that has spanned the best part of three decades.
 
 Born in California and raised in Aotearoa, Mark first emerged in the public eye as the Slavish half of proto hip hop duo MC OJ & Rhythm Slave. Transitioning from youthful energy overload to a more considered, politicised approach, they developed into Joint Force in combination with long time compadre DLT. Slave found his eventual ideal musical home with Wellington troubadours Fat Freddy’s Drop, carving out a position as their much celebrated hype man/tour MC since 2006.
 
 As well as providing the live lyrical fire and crowd incentivising for FFD, Mark has also warmed the stage up for them all over the world as a DJ / Selector. Mark holds down the weekly 2pm -4pm Sunday sweet spot as host of the Logg Cabin radio show on 95BFM. The Loggcabin has become a veritable institution. Building his chops in the 90s on 95bFM’s True School Hip Hop Show and later Drive, as well as contributing to the early momentum of Base FM, and George Fm, M.C. Slave has spread his audio amor far and wide on the airwaves. 
 
 Mark is also the station voice of Flava Radio in Auckland, making him one of the country’s most recognisable and trusted voices. On the small screen with the MO Show, Mark and crew took New Zealand out to the world and returned with an award winning riot of interviews, sketches and thoroughly anarchic TV - the likes of which will probably never be seen again. As well as appearing on a multitude of TV shows and feature films, invariably cast as ‘the bad guy’, he has also made waves behind the camera, most notably directing Fat Freddy’s Drop's legendary Wandering Eye clip which won Best Music Video at the 2006 Vodafone NZ Music Awards.
 
 Mark is joined by the legendary DJ Bobby Brazuka from Latinaotearoa, and owner of the iconic Ponsonby Social Club for a historic show!

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

How much do you know about the history of your own country? Lachie is an intermediate teacher passionate about history. His journey is all about delving deep into the history of Aotearoa, cultivating a profound understanding that he can then weave into his teaching. Lachie joins Fabian Roberts and Leo Magri on the Altbays Table Talk for a solid korero.

Show 244 – Lachie Holt (Teacher/Creator) 

Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (feat. Fabian Roberts and Leo Magri)

Lachie Holt is a creator proudly rooted in Kirikiriroa, Aotearoa. Embracing his Māori heritage as a descendant of Ngāti Raukawa ki te tonga, he is an intermediate teacher and very passionate about history.

His journey is centered on one ambitious goal: to delve deep into the history of Aotearoa, cultivating a profound understanding that he can then weave into his teaching. Every step of this journey has been significant in shaping his views and understanding of who he is as a person. Along the way, he’s had the privilege of meeting incredible people who have enriched his perspective on the history of Aotearoa. 

Lachie is not a historian, rather someone passionate about history. His popular Instagram page @aotearoahistory_ is about him learning about history from local experts and sharing those stories.

ALTBAYS Show invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Have you ever considered making a living by creating online content? Win Wolf started his social media journey on the lip-syncing platform Music.ly – the app that later transformed into TikTok. His extensive content library now provides a beautiful variety to a thriving audience of over 658,000 followers! Win joins Conno De Gier and Leo Magri on Altbays Table Talk. 

Show 243 – Win Wolf (Content Creator) 

Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (feat. Connor De Gier and Leo Magri)

Always adventure-ready and with a positive attitude is Win Velasco aka Win Wolf.

Ahead of the curve, Win made his social media start on the lip-syncing social platform Music.ly – the app that transformed into TikTok. While his roots may be in serving up intricate dance and music concoctions (a space he still taps into), his library of content now offers a beautiful variety to a booming audience of over 658,000.

On Win’s account, you will find a bounty of upbeat lifestyle content that includes taste tests, trips across the globe, men’s fashion advice, event/experience highlights, and insights into Filipino culture. Win also showcases his work on another screen, as a regular presenter for the TVNZ tween pop culture show ‘The Feed’.

ALTBAYS Show invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.

Do you think Aotearoa NZ is an accessible country? Andy Woodhouse, a Project Manager in the Disability Sector, has lived in NZ for 21 years and been a Youth and Community Worker for 30 years. He joins the Altbays Table Talk to chat with Leo and Azzie McLean about access and reach in the country. 

 Show 242 – Andy Woodhouse (Disability Sector Project Manager)  

Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (feat. Azzie McLean and Leo Magri) 

Andy Woodhouse, a Project Manager in the Disability Sector, has lived in NZ for 21 years and been a Youth and Community Worker for 30 years.

His involvement with people living with disabilities goes back
23 years when he had to do a placement that was out of his comfort zone as part
of his Post-Grad in Youth and Community Work. He chose to work with a
disability group as he had no experience of that. It was then that the epiphany
happened, and he saw the people, not the disabilities. This was a profound
moment that shaped his community work from that point on.

The general theme of his community work career has been Access
and Reach, and so he has spent time getting vulnerable and low-socio-economic
young people to access schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. This work
got him a job in NZ, and that is how he got to meet his current employers, the
Helen Anderson Trust in Christchurch. Previously, he had collaborated with HAT
for about 19 years in his previous jobs with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and
the Spirit of New Zealand Tall Ship.

Locally, he is helping Azzie to set up a trust so that funding
can be obtained to improve and extend disability access in Whitianga and create
a holiday destination for people with disabilities.

He is passionate about integration and access for people with
disabilities, believing that he has as much right as anybody else to exist and
to engage with mainstream activities and people. 

ALTBAYS Show invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.