If you only listen to one episode of the podcast, let it be this one. Corin is the first repeat guest to ever feature on Beyond the Surface, from episode #9 – episode #64! In this raw and honest, conversation, Corin Braddick takes us deep into the chaos of his recent trip to Thailand, where he was personally selected by UFC fighter Dan Hooker to compete in a viral underground fight show. Think 4-ounce gloves, one-minute rounds, no breaks, and a warehouse full of killers. But this episode is about so much more than fighting. Corin opens up about his experience with family violence in his family, his battles with mental health, and the emotional weight young men are often forced to carry alone. He shares the tools that helped him survive, grow, and come back stronger. We also talk about his recent performance in King in the Ring, what drives him, and why this journey is far from over. If you’re into combat sports, real stories, or just raw human resilience – this one is for you. One of the most powerful and fun convos we’ve had on the show. Chur! Please remember to hit subscribe, click follow or rate 5 stars, it helps the pod grow! Moana Road (Use Discount Code BTS20 for 20% off!) – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/  Corin's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corin.ihimaera/?hl=en  Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/  Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde  

Rowan Simpson is one of the most influential figures in New Zealand’s startup scene, employee #3 at Trade Me and early shareholder, and an investor in Xero, Vend, and Timely. Some might call him New Zealand's very own Warren Buffett?! Rowan opens up about his journey from startup employee to multi-multi millionaire, how success changed (and didn’t change) his life, and why he believes more Kiwis need to challenge tall poppy syndrome. I've got massive respect for Rowan, I find his perspective very refreshing and I hope you do too! We also dive into his new book 'How to be wrong', his investing philosophy, the ins and outs of startups, and his advice for entrepreneurs who want to scale. This is a rare, honest conversation with someone who's played the long game and has the scars (and wins) to show for it.  Please remember to hit subscribe, click follow or rate 5 stars, it helps the pod grow!  Moana Road (Use Discount Code BTS20 for 20% off!) – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Get Rowan's new book here – https://howtobewrongbook.com/ Rowan LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowansimpson/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/  

Richard Corney is the founder of Flight Coffee and a globally respected figure in the specialty coffee world. In this episode, we unpack Richard’s journey from joining the Navy straight out of high school, to opening his first café by the age of 20, to building one of Aotearoa’s most beloved coffee brands 'Flight Coffee'. He shares candid reflections on the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, his recent ADHD and autism diagnosis, the challenges of scaling a values-led business, and what years of judging the World Barista Championships have taught him about excellence. We dive into the creation of Flight Coffee, the founding of social enterprise Raw Material, and what it really takes to stay curious and committed in a saturated, fast-moving industry. Richard also opens up about leadership, legacy, and the unseen parts of the coffee world most people never think about. Whether you're into coffee, business, or stories of resilience and purpose, this one’s a banger.  Please remember to hit subscribe, click follow or rate 5 stars, it helps the pod grow!  Moana Road (Use Discount Code BTS20 for 20% off!) – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde Richard Corney – https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-corney-1476099a?originalSubdomain=nz Flight Coffee – https://flightcoffee.co.nz/?srsltid=AfmBOoodcDXjOHnQO2DbFLHSORoNxJUTrZepKCC8P_sKmqk1NKH3qA-i Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/  

Rangimarie "Marnie" Dougall-Mita is a professional basketball player for the Wellington Saints, content creator, and someone who's been on a powerful journey of self-discovery. Honestly, could have yarned to Marnie for a couple more hours – it's almost like he runs his own podcast (check it out, Yarns with Marns). In this episode, we unpack the defining moments that have shaped him — from a devastating knee injury that left him sidelined and spiraling mentally, to rebuilding himself through self-development, vulnerability, and spiritual growth. Marnie opens up about the pressure of performing in pro sport, the weight of identity, and what it took to start showing up more authentically in his life and online. We talk about what it means to process childhood wounds, and how he's learning to share his truth through content. Whether you're into sport, self-discovery, or just love hearing people reflect with honesty — this is a special kōrero with someone who's still evolving in real time. Please check out our awesome sponsors and use code BTS20 for 20% off all Moana Road products!  Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Marnie Insta – https://www.instagram.com/marnie_mita/ Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde    

DK is a public speaking coach whose TEDx talk “The Public Speaking Lesson You Never Had” has now surpassed over 1 million views. But behind the viral success is a much deeper story. In this episode, DK opens up about growing up in Wales with a hearing impairment, and how that shaped his view of communication. We explore his philosophy on public speaking, what most people get wrong about it, and how to truly connect with an audience. We also dive into DK’s experience curating TEDxWellington, his view on the toxic side of social media, and why he believes the best talks come from people who dare to be vulnerable. This is a masterclass on courage, communication, and being bold with your story. Moana Road (Use Checkout Code BTS for 20% off) – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Get in touch with DK – https://justadandak.com/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz

Re-released episode of one of the craziest stories ever shared on the show.  In 2009, after experiencing a mental breakdown following a relationship breakup, Rob found himself in a dark place, seeking an escape from his pain. He called the police, hoping for a violent end, but instead found himself shot through the chest and living to tell the tale.  Now Rob is on a journey to teach others how to better manage their mental health, to save the lives of those struggling with depression. A top human, Jiu Jitsu Practitioner, and one of the the craziest stories of all time. I highly recommend checking out his work and his documentary "Shot Bro" - link below! Please go check out and support our amazing sponsor for the podcast, Moana Road – for the goods! Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Beyond the Surface – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Rob Mokaraka Insta – https://www.instagram.com/shotbro_robmokaraka/ Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde&nd=1&dlsi=7138e8da120c422b Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/ Shot Bro documentary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3G6b0YCxXg&t=147s

Tait Burge, co-founder of Swimsuit Coffee, built one of Wellington’s most recognisable café brands before turning 30. Frustrated by feeling stuck while his friends graduated from university, he threw himself into coffee, starting with a school course that sparked a lifelong passion. In this episode, Tait shares how he went from making coffee to running a multi-location business, the challenges of rapid growth, and the pressure of learning on the job. He opens up about navigating the relentless hospitality industry, dealing with public scrutiny over pricing, and the realities of scaling a brand. Tait also speaks candidly about his recent ADHD diagnosis, how he’s adapting to life as a business owner rather than just a barista, and why keeping a strong team around him has been crucial. Go check out Swimsuit if you're in Welly, the coffee's and vibes are awn!  Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Tait Insta - https://www.instagram.com/taitburge/?hl=en Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/

We dive into MC Crafty’s journey from local gigs to commanding the main stage at Rhythm & Vines, and what it’s really like touring New Zealand and Australia alongside some of the biggest names in the DnB scene. Crafty shares the highs, the hard lessons, and the wild moments that come with life on the road. Honestly, such a legend this man is! We also get into the story behind Department of Arts, the creative venture he co-founded with mates — and what it’s taught him about business, friendships, and backing yourself. MC Crafty opens up about where his inspiration comes from, how he stays sharp on the mic, and why the New Zealand DnB community is so special. Whether you’re a DnB fan or just curious about the life of an MC, this one’s packed with stories you won’t want to miss. MC Crafty Insta - https://www.instagram.com/follow_the_craft/?hl=en Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZArq1WSsV1pMID1dkHbBL?si=ae3f007dd7794cde Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/

Bret McKenzie is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated creatives — a musician, comedian, actor, and Oscar-winning songwriter. Best known as one half of the iconic Flight of the Conchords, Bret takes us behind the scenes of their rise from Wellington bars to HBO stardom and global fame. Super surreal having Bret on the pod, I've been a massive FOTC fan since I was a young fella! We dive into the creative process behind their hit songs, the surreal experience of winning an Academy Award, and the reality of navigating sudden fame. Bret opens up about why they chose to step away at the peak, chasing creative freedom over celebrity. A rare, honest conversation with a true Kiwi legend. Hope you enjoy! Please remember to subscribe! Massive thanks to our sponsors Moana Road and Kaboose Media. Bret McKenzie – https://www.instagram.com/bretrospective/?hl=en Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Noa Woolloff Insta – https://www.instagram.com/noawoolloff/

Joe Slater co-founded Six Barrel Soda, turning a small idea into one of New Zealand’s most recognisable beverage brands. In this episode, we dive into the journey of building Six Barrel Soda from the ground up, the challenges of scaling a niche business, and how Joe handled a competitor blatantly copying their brand. We also talk about the process of selling Six Barrel Soda, the lessons Joe learned along the way, and his best marketing hacks for businesses operating in niche markets. As well as advice for young entrepreneurs out there, this was a really fun one!  An episode packed with insights for entrepreneurs, brand builders, and anyone who loves a good business story. Joe Slater – https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-slater-nz/ Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz