The Brink Podcast

In this mind-expanding episode of The Brink, Ringo and Ridgey sit down with Troy Casey, aka the Certified Health Nut—a man whose journey from international fashion model to holistic health warrior is as raw and real as it gets. Troy opens up about his early life, his struggles with addiction, and the path that led him to ancient plant medicine, natural detox practices, and a mission to Make America Healthy Again through what he calls the Maha movement. His story isn’t polished—it’s lived. And his message is clear: we don’t need more hacks. We need to return to what’s real. Troy takes us through his ‘9 Pillars of Health’, a framework built around holistic health, movement, clean nutrition, consciousness, and self-responsibility. He shares his powerful experiences with ayahuasca, insights from working with Maori healers, and his deep critique of modern education systems—particularly how they fail to foster critical thinking or raise conscious, connected children. For Troy, wellness isn’t just about green smoothies and morning routines. It’s about raising kids who question, communities who support each other, and a body-mind-spirit system that’s in alignment with nature. This is an episode that challenges the status quo—from parenting and technology to what we’re feeding our bodies and our minds. Ringo and Ridgey dig into Troy’s vision for a healthier, more awakened society, one that starts with self-inquiry and ends with legacy. Whether you’re deep in the wellness world or just questioning what “health” really means in 2025, this one will leave you thinking, laughing, and maybe even reprogramming your daily habits. As Troy says: “Let thy food be thy medicine—but don’t forget to move your damn body.” Links: Instagram Certified Health Nut Website    

In this episode of The Brink, Ringo and Ridgey welcome high-performance coach Adam Smith, whose journey from near-suicide to sobriety, self-mastery and service is as gritty as it is inspiring. Adam gets raw about his battles with mental health, addiction and low self-worth—and how hitting rock bottom gave him the foundation to rebuild everything. This isn’t your standard self-help chat. It’s a practical, no-fluff conversation about transformation, resilience, and why “doing what’s doable” is often the most powerful place to start.Adam breaks down the psychology of change, how understanding human behaviour can shift everything, and why procrastination is less about laziness and more about self-esteem.  From habit stacking to fasting, non-negotiables to DNA-driven nutrition, he shares simple steps that anyone can implement to regain control of their body, mind, and life:  • Set three daily non-negotiables to build structure  • Use your past as fuel, not a chain • Stack small habits for big momentum • Get curious about nutrition and DNA • Raise your standards to raise your life This one’s for anyone who’s been stuck, spiraling, or just quietly losing steam. Adam doesn’t sell perfection—he models progress. And whether you’re in a rut or on the rise, his story reminds us that change doesn’t come from doing everything at once, but from consistently doing something. Links: Adam's linkedIn Adam's podcast Website: A-Game Consultancy Adam's Instagram

In this episode of The Brink, Ringo and Ridgey are joined by Dion Freeman—a man whose life reads like a modern spiritual odyssey. From a childhood soaked in chaos to prison bars and, eventually, a cave in the mountains, Dion’s story is a raw, powerful reminder that healing doesn’t always come in the package you expect. Today, he stands as a Māori healer and spiritual guide, practicing Honohono—an ancestral medicine that reconnects people with their wairua (spirit), their past, and their purpose.   Dion takes us through the defining moments of his transformation, including his time behind bars where he experienced not just physical change but a profound spiritual awakening. It’s not every day you hear someone say “I didn’t see humans for 49 days,” but for Dion, that solitude became sacred. Through Honohono and deep self-reflection, he began helping others heal from trauma, addiction, and the pain they didn’t even know they were carrying. He speaks of God not as a man with a beard, but as energy. Of names having meaning. Of healing that transcends space and time.   Dion’s understanding of healing isn’t abstract—it’s raw, physical, and often emotional. And yes, in case you’re wondering, both Ringo and Ridgey had personal healing sessions with Dion—and we talk about those experiences in this episode. This conversation isn't just about healing—it's about unlearning, relearning, and remembering who you are beneath the noise. Whether you're a skeptic or a seeker, Dion brings a grounded, visceral truth to the conversation. And as always, Ringo and Ridgey keep it real. This episode might just leave you breathing a little deeper—and looking at your own journey with fresh eyes.   Dion's links:  https://www.wayofthewarrior.co.nz/ https://www.healingaotearoa.co.nz/ https://www.youtube.com/@f.t.p-podcast https://www.instagram.com/dion_free_man?igsh=dHRjam00Y3JzY2M3 https://www.instagram.com/dionbrangiuaia?igsh=MXZxNWtobGM3NDZxdw%3D%3D https://www.honohono-healing.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dionbrangiuaiafre  

This week on The Brink, Ringo and Ridgey attempt to breathe their way to enlightenment—without passing out—as they sit down with legendary breathwork master Dan Brulé. Dan isn’t just any breath coach; he’s trained Navy SEALs, Olympic athletes, and yes, even Tony Robbins, who was so impressed he wrote the foreword to Dan’s best-selling book Just Breathe. If Tony Robbins is the godfather of self-help, Dan is the Yoda of the inhale. From the very first puff—sorry, breath—Dan breaks down why this ancient, involuntary act might just be the key to managing stress, healing trauma, and accessing peak performance. He walks us through practices like rebirthing (which is not as weird as it sounds), breath holding (which is exactly what it sounds like), and his golden formula for transformation: awareness, relaxation, and conscious breathing. You’ll also hear how the breath impacts anxiety, emotional management, and why hyperventilating isn’t always a red flag. As usual, Ringo and Ridgey find a way to mix depth with a dash of idiocy—because nothing says spiritual growth like two grown men trying to out-breathe each other. But behind the laughs is a serious message: breath is free, it’s always with you, and it might just be the most underrated superpower we’ve got. So whether you're looking for calm, clarity, or just want to stop sounding like a chain smoker walking up stairs, this episode delivers. You’ll come for the banter, but you might just leave with a new lease on life—and hopefully, breathing through your nose. Links: Dan's Website: Breath Mastery Dan's Instagram    

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide, bullying, and mental health. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode of The Brink Podcast, Ringo and Ridgey sit down with the legendary Alex Perry for a wide-ranging, sharp, and unexpectedly hilarious chat that pulls back the glittery curtain on the fashion world. Alex dishes on everything from the cultural quirks that shape global fashion to the not-so-glam side of the industry most people never see. With his trademark wit and brutal honesty, Alex talks about the highs and lows of fame, the tightrope walk between authenticity and public image, and why self-critique (without self-destruction) is his secret weapon. Expect big laughs, a few jaw-dropping stories, and plenty of no-nonsense wisdom. Things get even juicier when the conversation turns to the digital jungle of social media and the relentless world of online criticism. Alex, Ringo, and Ridgey dive into the brutal reality of bullying—both in person and online—and how it messes with mental health and self-perception. Alex doesn’t hold back on the toxic side of the internet, the emotional weight of bullying, and the challenge of staying sane when the trolls come out to play. Whether it’s surviving harsh criticism, handling bullies, or knowing when to block, mute, or just laugh it off, the trio serves up sharp truths with a healthy dose of humor. But beneath the banter, there’s heart. Alex opens up about how family, cultural identity, and a good old-fashioned work ethic have shaped his resilience and kept him grounded—even when the pressure’s on. From childhood lessons to the underrated magic of a family dinner, Alex reminds us that success isn’t just about image—it’s about connection. Whether you’re a fashion junkie, a social media survivor, or just here for the laughs, this episode is packed with honesty, humor, and the kind of sharp banter that makes The Brink one hell of a listen.

We sit down with Danyon and Cole to unravel a raw, emotional journey through meth addiction, rehab and the unexpected love story that emerged in the heart of struggle. From the initial escape meth provided to the brutal lows that followed, both Cole and Danyon speak with unflinching honesty about guilt, self-forgiveness and the long, often painful road to recovery. They share how love can survive in chaos, how trust is rebuilt brick by brick and how addiction reshapes the very core of who you think you are. Danyon, now a men’s mental health advocate, opens up about the emotional reality of sobriety—what happens after the detox, after the rehab, and the truth about starting again. Cole reflects on the complexities of loving someone in recovery, the role of spirituality in healing and the necessity of honesty in relationships. Together, they explore how support systems, purpose and deep personal work helped them not just survive, but grow. This is a must-listen episode for anyone who has a loved one caught in the grip of addiction or anyone fighting that battle themselves. Cole and Danyon’s story reminds us that recovery is never simple, love isn’t always clean and hope is a lifeline worth grabbing onto. It's a conversation about falling apart—and choosing to put the pieces back together anyway.

In this deeply moving and unflinchingly honest episode, Sam Troth opens up about his lived experience as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. His story is not just one of survival, but of resilience, advocacy and the relentless pursuit of justice. Sam takes us through the long shadow abuse has cast over his life—from its devastating impact on his mental health and relationships to his battles with addiction and the crushing failures of the justice system to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. This conversation is raw and necessary. It shines a light on the chilling reality that one in six boys and one in three girls will experience sexual abuse before the age of sixteen. Sam doesn’t shy away from the hard truths—about the predators who groom not just children but their communities, about the institutions that enabled abuse under the guise of care and about the silence that too often protects abusers more than it defends the innocent. But amidst the pain is power. Sam speaks with fierce clarity about the ripple effects of abuse—not only the personal toll it takes, but the way it echoes across families, generations, and entire communities. He shares how education, open conversation, and early body-safety awareness are vital tools in prevention. He also explores the journey from victim to advocate and how walking for awareness became a way to reclaim his voice and his healing. In one of the most powerful acts of advocacy, Sam is currently walking the length of New Zealand—from its northernmost tip to Parliament in Wellington—carrying with him a petition calling for a minimum eight-year sentence for sexual offending. It's a grueling and symbolic journey that amplifies the voices of countless survivors and demands that lawmakers take meaningful action to protect the most vulnerable. This isn’t just a walk—it’s a movement. This episode is a call to action. It challenges us to break the silence, to confront the systemic failures that perpetuate abuse and to recognize the staggering economic, emotional and societal costs of inaction. Through Sam’s powerful testimony, listeners are reminded that change begins with conversation—and that empowering survivors and holding space for their truth is the first step in building a safer world for all children. Trigger warning: This episode discusses themes of childhood sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.   To support Sam’s mission and sign the petition for a minimum eight-year sentence for sexual offending, follow the link at the end of these show notes. Your voice matters. petitions.parliament.nz/4ea3ebcf-8a45-4a57-a30e-08dd63dfe70d Sam's Givealittle page: givealittle.co.nz/cause/cape-reinga-to-the-beehive-support-justice-reform Helplines and local mental-health services: healthed.govt.nz/products/helplines-and-mental-health-services Sam's Instagram: @theroadtohealingaoteartoa Direct link: instagram.com/theroadtohealingaotearoa?igsh=YWtnOXBocWJjMTM%3D Website: www.theroadtohealing.co.nz              

Paddy Gower steps up to The Brink with Ringo and Ridley for an unfiltered conversation about journalism, addiction, and the pursuit of self-understanding. With his trademark honesty, Gower opens up about the highs and lows of his career, the unexpected weight of fame, and the self-confidence struggles that lurked beneath his public persona. He reflects on his relationship with alcohol—once a crutch to navigate the pressures of his profession—and the misconceptions surrounding addiction. His recent book tour became a journey of personal reckoning, exposing the deep-rooted stigma around alcoholism and challenging society’s arbitrary distinctions between accepted and illicit substances. In a world where drinking is normalized but dependency is shamed, Gower’s story is a reminder that addiction is far more complex than we like to admit. The conversation takes a broader look at addiction, not just in terms of alcohol but also through the lens of technology. With the same raw honesty that defined his take on drinking, Gower and the hosts discuss the addictive nature of smartphones and social media, questioning whether our hyper-connected world has actually left us more disconnected than ever. They explore the unspoken pressures of sobriety in a culture that glorifies drinking and the lack of support for those who choose to step away from it. As society grapples with rising loneliness and detachment, Gower shares his belief that real human connection—away from screens and substances—needs to be reclaimed before it’s too late. Looking ahead, Gower remains committed to journalism, but with a sharpened perspective on the stories that truly matter. He speaks about his evolving relationship with his craft, his desire to tell stories that create impact, and his hope for a future where people push back against the forces that keep them distracted and disconnected. As he navigates personal growth and professional aspirations, he offers a glimmer of optimism—proof that change, though difficult, is always possible. This episode is an invitation to rethink our habits, reassess our relationship with addiction in all its forms, and rediscover the power of genuine human connection. 🔔 New episodes every Friday morning! Subscribe and never miss a conversation that takes you to The Brink.  

This episode is a must-listen for any parent with a child struggling with ADHD. Welcome back to The Brink! This time, Ringo and Ridgey are coming to you straight from the stunning Dolomites in Italy, where they sit down with digital strategist and all-round legend, Arnout Heleemans. If you've ever wondered whether ADHD is a curse or a superpower, this episode is for you. Arnout breaks down his own journey of being diagnosed as an adult and how it’s shaped his life, his career, and his understanding of how the ADHD brain really works. Spoiler alert: it’s not a disorder, it’s just a different way of thinking—and sometimes, it’s the perfect formula for success. Arnout has built a career in SEO, figuring out the digital world’s trickiest algorithms while running a business full of neurodiverse minds. He’s a firm believer that people with ADHD and autism have unique skills that can actually give them an edge in the workplace. The boys dive into how school often fails kids with ADHD, conditioning them to feel like they don’t fit in, and how that can lead to a tough road if they don’t find the right environment. But it’s not all doom and gloom—Arnout’s got plenty of insights into how neurodiverse individuals can thrive, not just survive, in the right conditions. The chat gets real about dopamine depletion, why people with ADHD procrastinate (yes, we see you putting off your taxes), and how the education system is completely missing the mark. They even get into the big question: should kids with ADHD take medication? Arnout shares his experience with ADHD meds—how they can be a game-changer but also how they can take away that creative spark. The boys go deep on how to find workarounds instead of just relying on medication, plus some hilarious personal stories of managing life with an ADHD brain. Arnout isn’t just talking the talk; he’s one of the top SEO minds in Europe. He’s spent over a decade helping businesses master digital strategy, and when he’s not optimizing websites, he’s mentoring young professionals and speaking at top industry events. If you want to pick his brain, check out his website at onlinemarkethink.com or hit him up on Bluesky. So whether you’ve got ADHD, suspect you might, or just want a deep dive into how different brains tick, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and maybe even a few lightbulb moments. Don’t forget to follow The Brink on Instagram @TheBrinkPodcast, and if you’ve got a wild ADHD story of your own, drop us a message. Enjoy the episode, and as always, stay on the brink!

This week on The Brink with your favorite dynamic duo, Ringo and Ridgey, we dive headfirst into the swirling abyss of imposter syndrome—that nagging voice in your head that insists you’re a fraud, despite, you know, all the actual evidence that you’re crushing it. Clinical psychologist Selena Clark joins the lads to unpack why even high achievers often feel like they’re just winging it and how cultural and gender influences can crank that self-doubt dial up to eleven. Ridgey bravely admits he once felt like an imposter hosting this very podcast—Ringo assures him, he still does. Selena breaks down the different imposter syndrome archetypes (spoiler: perfectionists and know-it-alls, you’re on the list) while the boys share their own awkward tales of self-doubt. They discuss how social media, where everyone’s life looks like a highlight reel, fuels the “why am I not good enough?” fire, and how important it is to recognise the difference between actual inadequacy and that pesky inner critic lying through its teeth. But fear not, dear listeners—it’s not all doom and existential gloom! Selena shares practical strategies to kick imposter syndrome to the curb, like the 90-second rule to process emotions. From breathing exercises to celebrating your wins—no matter how small—this episode reminds us that acknowledging those self-doubts is the first step to banishing them. So tune in, laugh at the boy's expense, and remember: if you think you’re an imposter, you’re probably just doing something right.

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/

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.