FIRST STEPS RESOURCES

Video Library

Trauma at Work
Dr. Tim Williams

Join Dr. Tim Williams as he explores the vital role of emergency response planning in managing workplace trauma. This short webinar sheds light on how businesses can effectively assess risks, communicate during crises, and support their staff through training in psychological first aid. Dr. Williams discusses the importance of long-term strategies and building partnerships with mental health professionals to ensure a resilient and prepared workforce. Discover how thoughtful planning can transform challenging events into opportunities for growth and strength.

Resilience with
Paul Whatuira

In our latest Resilience Webinar, former Kiwi league star Paul Whatuira opens up about his journey from a mental-health crisis to a decade of medication-free living, sharing practical habits that keep him steady today… quality sleep, nourishing food, daily movement, and genuine connection. Grounded in strong whānau values, Paul shows how purpose can eclipse pressure, why facing hard conversations builds real confidence, and how simple evening routines set the stage for calmer, more productive days.

Resilience with
Shontayne Hape

In this webinar, Shontayne Hape shares his journey from a professional rugby player to a resilience advocate after facing significant challenges, including multiple injuries and concussions. He discusses the importance of mental resilience, coping strategies, and maintaining wellbeing through connection and gratitude. Shontayne emphasises the need for community support and practical steps to enhance mental health.

Resilience with
Tawera Nikau

In this webinar, host Simon Bridges sits down with rugby league legend Tawera Nikau to explore resilience, leadership, and purpose, both on and off the field. Tawera shares openly about the highs of international sport and the devastating loss of his leg, offering insights into how adversity shaped his character, mindset, and future. From rebuilding identity to supporting others through mental health challenges, this episode is an inspiring look at what it means to lead a meaningful life after setbacks.

Resilience with
Shane Cameron

In this honest and inspiring conversation, former boxing champion Shane Cameron joins host Simon Bridges to talk about resilience, business, and the mindset that helped him overcome tough beginnings. Shane opens up about growing up with nothing, the drive to break the cycle for his kids, and how the discipline of boxing shaped his approach to life and success. It’s a raw and real discussion on what fuels purpose beyond fame or money.

Resilience with
Ruben Wiki

We are joined by rugby league legend Ruben Wiki, who opens up about resilience, mental health, and the importance of speaking out, especially for men. He shares personal reflections on navigating tough times, the strength found in vulnerability, and why connection and support are key to wellbeing. A raw and uplifting kōrero that reminds us all: don’t let it die within… your voice matters.

Breaking Habits

Louisa Webster
Registered Psychologist

In this webinar, Registered Psychologist Louisa Webster explores the science and psychology behind breaking habits… why we form them, what keeps us stuck, and how we can create lasting change. Louisa introduces the cycle of change model to help viewers understand their own readiness for transformation, and shares practical, evidence-based strategies to shift behaviours that no longer serve us. Whether you’re trying to break a routine, stop unhelpful patterns, or simply understand your brain better, this session offers tools, compassion, and clarity to support real progress.

Parenting: Simple Strategies For Working Parents

Louisa Webster
Registered Psychologist

In this webinar, Registered Psychologist Louisa Webster shares practical, real-world tools to help working parents find more balance at home and in themselves. Whether you’re juggling Zoom calls and school drop-offs or feeling stretched too thin, Louisa offers compassionate, actionable advice that meets you where you are.

Stress, Your Body and Building Resilience

Dr Sheree Crump
Clinical Psychologist

Feeling overwhelmed by stress? Take a deep breath… Clinical Psychologist Dr. Sheree Crump breaks down what stress REALLY is, how it affects your body, and powerful techniques you can use right now to calm your mind and build resilience.

‘Managing Relationships’
with Hannah Young

Registered Psychologist

In this webinar, Registered Psychologist Hannah Young explores the foundations of healthy relationships… from understanding emotional triggers and attachment styles to setting effective boundaries. Learn why relationship struggles can feel so overwhelming, how to recognise your patterns, and practical tools to build stronger, more resilient connections in both your personal and professional life.

‘Burnout’ with
Dr. Charlotte Gibson

Burnout is more than just being tired – it’s a full-body and mind experience that’s becoming all too common in today’s work culture. In this incredibly timely session, Mind Garage Clinical Psychologist, Charlotte Gibson breaks down burnout in the workplace and how we can better understand, prevent, and recover from it.

Resilience Series
Episode 30.

Sheona Kearney

Feeling overwhelmed as a business owner or striving to find that work-life balance? Tune into our latest video featuring Sheona Kearney from Tiger Coffee New Zealand! Sheona shares her inspiring journey from starting in a sitting room to growing a thriving business, all while navigating the ups and downs with resilience and positivity. Discover her top tips on maintaining a positive outlook, prioritising wellbeing, and not sweating the small stuff. 

Q&A with
Dr. Tim Williams

In this webinar, Dr. Tim Williams addresses various questions related to mental health, focusing on grief, the effectiveness of mental health apps, structuring workdays for better productivity, and transforming negative self-talk. He emphasises the importance of understanding grief as a changing process rather than an endpoint, the potential benefits and limitations of AI-based mental health tools, practical strategies for organising workdays, and techniques for managing self-defeating thoughts through mindfulness and core belief recognition.

Resilience Series
Episode 29.

Steve Gurney

In this episode host Simon Bridges interviews Steve Gurney, a legendary New Zealand adventure athlete. Steve shares his incredible journey through extreme sports, near-death experiences, and battles with depression, offering valuable insights into resilience. He recounts surviving a life-threatening bout with leptospirosis contracted from bat droppings in Borneo, and how this experience, along with his subsequent mental health challenges, shaped his understanding of resilience. Steve emphasises that true resilience isn’t just about physical endurance but about mental fortitude, accepting life’s imperfections, and maintaining basic wellbeing through proper sleep, nutrition, and honest communication.

Your questions – answered by Dr. Margaret Sandham

MindMatters Clinic
Clinical Psychologist

Resilience Series
Episode 28.

Krista Sanford-Hill
Physical Exercise

In this captivating webinar, host Natalie Woodbridge welcomes Krista Sandford-Hill, a specialist in health and fitness. Krista shares her incredible journey from the design world to health and fitness, emphasising the importance of resilience, mental health, and the power of small, consistent actions. Drawing on personal stories, including a life-changing mountain biking accident, Krista offers practical tips for incorporating exercise into daily life, making fitness accessible to everyone.

Guest – Krista Sanford-Hill
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 27.

Julie Newman
Belonging

In this engaging webinar, Natalie Woodbridge hosts Julie Newman, a coach and consultant, as they explore the concept of belonging within personal and professional contexts. Julie shares her journey and provides insightful tips on fostering meaningful connections and thriving in dynamic environments. From the pillars of mental health to practical strategies for creating a sense of belonging, this conversation is filled with valuable takeaways for business owners, managers, and individuals seeking to enhance their well-being and social connections.

Guest – Dr. Stacey Lim and Julie Newman
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 25.

Natalie Brady – Practical Nutrition Tips

In this episode we are thrilled to feature Natalie Brady, a renowned holistic nutritionist who has transformed her life and career through the power of nutrition. Natalie shares her incredible journey from battling various health challenges—including eczema, asthma, IBS, and endometriosis—to discovering the profound impact of dietary changes on overall health.

Natalie will delve into the importance of nutrition for mental health, overall well-being, and work performance. She emphasises practical strategies such as focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods, maintaining hydration, and adopting sustainable self-care practices. Natalie also offers actionable advice on meal prepping for busy schedules and balancing disciplined eating with life’s pleasures.

Join us to gain valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your health and performance, whether you are managing a bustling career, family responsibilities, or both.

Guest – Natalie Brady
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 24.

Kathryn Sanford – Mindfulness and Meditation

Kathryn Sanford is the director of M two M Coaching. She is a dedicated career coach and a personal brand strategist, providing personalised guidance to individuals seeking to develop impactful personal brands that showcase their unique skills, experience and achievements. Her expertise lies in enabling clients to build influential personal brands that that resonate with target audiences, including potential employers, clients and industry figures.

Guest – Kathryn Sanford
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 23.

Albie Roebeck – Values and Beliefs.

Albie is a current serving member of the Royal New Zealand Navy with 21 years experience, including eight years dedicated to working with at risk youth. His passion for making a positive impact extends beyond his military career as he continues to inspire growth, change and success in others. As a former boxer and a current boxing coach with 14 years experience, Albie channels his passion and drive into mentoring individuals at the boxing alley. Through his coaching, he empowers others to push their limits, achieve their goals and realise their full potential both inside and outside the ring. Albie’s unwavering commitment to service coupled with his dedication to empowering others through coaching reflects his exceptional drive in leadership. His impactful journey embodies the relentless pursuit of growth and success, inspiring all of those around him to strive for excellence in all endeavours. 

Guest – Albie Roebeck
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 22.

Alister Gates – Navigating Relationships for Personal and Professional Wellbeing. 

Alister Gates is a business professional turned counsellor with over 30 years of experience in IT, marketing, and product development. After shifting careers, Alister now focuses on helping professionals navigate personal challenges like relationship issues, social anxiety, and self-esteem through his expertise in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.

Alister’s unique blend of business and counselling experience gives him a deep understanding of the emotional struggles many professionals face.

In this video he shares his insights on the importance of strong social connections and relationships for personal and professional wellbeing.

Guest – Alister Gates
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 21.

Kim Tay

Kim Tay is a resilience and wellbeing expert who specialises in helping teams and businesses thrive, even in high-pressure environments. As director of The Wellbeing Works, Kim works with businesses to boost wellbeing, productivity and engagement using science-backed strategies.

Kim equips attendees with practical mindset tools they can use immediately to reduce stress, build a positive workplace culture, increase energy and enjoy work more.

She has worked with thousands of people in Aotearoa and around the world, from schools to small businesses to multinational corporates.

Her high-energy, entertaining workshops draw from the latest research in positive psychology, neuroscience and emotional intelligence. She makes the science simple, relatable and fun, leaving participants feeling uplifted and empowered to create positive change.

Guest – Kim Tay
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 20.

Bridgette Jackson

Bridgette Jackson, a CDC-certified Divorce/Separation Coach and legal professional, has turned personal challenges into professional success. After navigating her own difficult divorce, she founded Equal Exes in 2019, a service dedicated to making separation processes less costly and time-consuming. Bridgette, who is also an enrolled barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand, embodies resilience with her mantra, “there is always a positive in a negative, you just need to find it.”

Expanding her impact, Bridgette co-founded Equal Group Holdings, introducing Equal Workplace Support to help employees navigate divorce with confidentiality at work. She also co-created Equalibrium, focusing on therapies for narcissistic abuse and somatic trauma. Bridgette’s ventures not only provide crucial support during personal crises but also integrate these services into business environments, redefining workplace wellness.

Guest – Bridgette Jackson
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 19.

William Pike

Learning to be comfortable whilst being uncomfortable: after losing his leg in a volcanic eruption, William’s resilience was tested to the max. As an accidental business owner, William shares how values based decisions and his ‘why’ have built two successful businesses. Learn how he used nature to keep his mental health in-check, and how the William Pike Challenge has transformed the lives of over 40,000 young people through nature. Not shying away from the challenges he’s faced, William talks about striving to balance family and outdoor adventures with to growing businesses and more.

Guest – William Pike
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 18.

Kirsten Taylor

Kirsten Taylor, Founder and CEO of SleepDrops and a leader in the world of sleep science, has become a symbol of resilience and forward-thinking within the sleep science industry.

Kirsten offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between stress and sleep, helping us understand how these two critical aspects of health interact and how to balance both for optimal well-being. She explains how to recognise the signs of sleep deprivation and the impact stress can have on sleep quality.

Kirsten shares practical strategies to enhance sleep, including breathing exercises and the use of nutrients. She also provides access to free resources that participants can start using immediately to improve their sleep.

Guest – Kirsten Taylor
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 17.

Rich Tangney and Chrissy Ve

Husband/Wife Duo: A Power Couple’s Guide to Building Resilience and Business Together – This seminar with Rich Tangney and Chrissy Ve showcases a dynamic duo who have combined their individual strengths to enhance Chrissy’s existing business. It highlights how different personal approaches to resilience can harmonise to foster both personal and professional growth.  This seminar will provide attendees with strategies to adapt and thrive together.

Guest – Rich Tangney and Chrissy Ve
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 16.

Mike Burke

Flexing the Resilience Muscle: Lessons from Corporate Life to Entrepreneurship – This seminar with Mike Burke delves into the anatomy of resilience, comparing it to a muscle that must be nurtured, trained, and sometimes healed.  He talks about his own experiences and how losing 10 thousand felt the same as losing 3 million and why these experiences strengthened his resilience through solo and collaborative efforts and the importance of the right inputs for sustaining growth.

Guest – Mike Burke
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

Resilience Series
Episode 15.

Lawrence Lotze

Lawrence Lotze, a passionate podcaster and advocate for meaningful connections, transformed his life’s toughest challenge, a brain tumour diagnosis in 2019 into a source of strength and inspiration. As an engaging speaker focused on mental health, financial literacy, and community-building, Lawrence illustrates the power of human connections and the resilience born from adversity.

Through his popular YouTube channel, Lawrence travels the world virtually, bringing his audience face-to-face with successful business owners and renowned sports stars. Each episode dives into the personal journeys, challenges, and pivotal moments of his guests, from the bustling streets of New York to the scenic beaches of Sydney. The conversation with Lawrence will reveal the motivations and insights of influential figures reshaping their industries, proving that personal trials can lead to profound triumphs.

Guest – Lawrence Lotze
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 14.

Julia Grace

Julia Grace is an acclaimed mental health speaker and educator, she channels her experiences of personal adversity and global upheaval into powerful lessons on resilience. As the President of the New Zealand Professional Speakers Association and the PSA NZ Educator of the Year, Julia brings credibility and depth to her role. She is also a Tui award-winning recording artist and the author of ‘Be Kind to Your Mind’.

Julia will speak candidly about her own battles with clinical depression and anxiety, offering a deeply personal perspective that we know will resonates with the First Steps audience. Her focus on education and personal experience makes Julia a compelling advocate for mental health awareness, providing valuable insights and encouragement to those facing similar challenges.

Guest – Julia Grace
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 13.

Karin Horen

Karin Horen, a solo mother and twice breast cancer survivor, has channelled her experiences into advocacy and empowerment. As the author of “I am more than just my tits” and a resilience coach, she co-founded Paddle For Hope, a key fundraiser that initiated the PaddleOn cancer rehabilitation program. In 2018, Karin launched a mastectomy-friendly swimwear line that enhanced her impact on the community.

Her professional background spans marketing and sales, including roles in media, advertising, and real estate. In 2023, Karin started a podcast named after her book, further amplifying her message of resilience. Living by the motto, “She believed she could, so she did,” Karin continues to inspire and motivate others to overcome adversity and improve their quality of life.

Guest – Karin Horen
Host – Natalie Woodbridge

What is ADHD?

Watch an insightful video follow-up to our popular ADHD resource – ‘What is ADHD and how do I know if I’m ADHD? Dive into this important subject with psychologists Dr. Louise and Charlotte from Mind Matters as they explore “What is ADHD?” Gain valuable insights as they address your common queries, such as identifying symptoms, obtaining a diagnosis, and effective management strategies.

The power of resilience with The Blues

Explore and unravel the hidden narratives of resilience within the domains of Auckland Rugby and Business.

In a world where challenges throw us off course, discover how the Blues and business tycoons have harnessed the power of resilience to not merely survive, but thrive amidst adversities. It’s more than an ethos — it’s an art, and here they reveal the canvas behind the victories and the comebacks.

Now’s your chance to get a peek into the strategic and mental resilience that propels victories, both on the field and in the business arena.

Resilience Series
Episode 12.

Renee Taylor

Beneath the Surface: Empowerment through Free Diving and Speech Therapy: Renee Taylor is a Director and Clinician at Swallow & Speech Therapy Consultants Ltd which is a private Speech-language Therapy practice specialising in swallowing disorders in aged residential care. Working in the Health Industry had a whirlwind of emotions and experiences for Renee, unfortunately leading to her experiencing burn out and trauma, which impacted her ability to continue working in the public health space. It led her to reconnect more with her Maoritanga and to be more confident and proud in that space, to set boundaries, as well as discovering the world of freediving which in turn helped her own mental health.

Guest – Renee Taylor
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 11.

Zeisha Fremaux

The Tune of Resilience: Navigating Through Life’s Toughest Beats: As an influential figure in her field, Zeisha Fremaux continues to break barriers, inspire others, and challenge the status quo in both music and social advocacy. Her story not only highlights the importance of resilience in the face of adversity but also serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome challenges.

Guest – Zeisha Fremaux
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 10.

Robbie Shefford

A Man with a Plan and a Caravan: Roadside Mental Health Revolution. Robbie Shefford’s mission is simple to travel around New Zealand with his race tractor and mental health and well-being caravan and stop to talk to as many groups and people as he can about the importance of mental health, well-being and positive thinking.

Guest – Robbie Shefford
Host – Simon Bridges

Resilience Series
Episode 9.

Jordan Fitzgerald

Jordan Fitzgerald is a former New Zealand Special Operations Forces Commando and the founder of an apparel brand called Warfighter Athletic. After over a decade of service within the NZ Army which included a tour of Afghanistan, he looked to business for a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh challenge. Driven by passion, he chose to build Warfighter Athletic, an e-commerce-focused apparel and training company around the ethos and values he learned during his military career.

Guest – Jordan Fitzgerald
https://warfighterathletic.co.nz

Host – Simon Bridges
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Financial Wellbeing
Episode 4.

Being Retirement Ready

Gain an understanding of what a realistic retirement could look like for you. How striking the balance of living life up to and past retirement is often something people have trouble with.  And, what else other than the money is important in making retirement choices. 

Financial Wellbeing
Episode 3.

Master your Mortgage

Check your understanding of the building blocks of mortgages, extend your knowledge of different loan structures and products, and find out what strategies are being employed by people who pay their loans off years ahead of schedule and save tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest.

Financial Wellbeing
Episode 2.

Managing your Cash-Flow Successfully.

Perform a self-check on how well you are doing the basics. You will find out what traits are the foundation of success and learn the two systems that guarantee you can successfully hit your spending goals.

Financial Wellbeing
Episode 1.

Making sure your KiwiSaver is working for you.

Check your understanding of risk, return and fund construction. You will identify which type of fund you should be invested in, and why, and then how you can use this information to make sure you are getting the best return in the market on your invested money. You will also find out the three key mistakes that can be devastating to your KiwiSaver balance at retirement.

Resilience Series
Episode 8.

Christyl Stowers

Be inspired and motivated by the remarkable journey of Christyl Stowers, whose powerful story is a testament to the strength of resilience. Overcoming childhood traumas and persevering through chronic pain, Christyl is dedicated to inspiring others. Christyl empowers individuals to pursue their dreams, embrace resilience, and create transformative change in their lives through authenticity and passion. Join us to hear Christyl’s story, as she guides others on their own paths to resilience as a life coach.

Guest – Christyl Stowers
www.instagram.com/sharkystowers

Host – Natalie Woodbridge
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 7.

Kaiwhare Kara France

Kai’s journey to success has been a challenging one, from overcoming bullying to dropping out of university to pursue his passion for MMA. Despite facing setbacks and tough opponents in the ring, Kai has remained committed to his goals and has become one of the top-ranked flyweight fighters in the UFC.

Guest – Kaiwhare Kara France
www.instagram.com/kaikarafrance

Host – Natalie Woodbridge
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 6.

William Pike

William’s story is an inspiration to us all, showing that with the right mindset and attitude, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges and achieve greatness. He is changing the lives of young people and making a difference in the world. Watch this episode for an opportunity to hear from William Pike as he shares his journey, experiences, and insights on resilience and how to overcome adversity.

Guest – William Pike
www.williampike.co.nz

Host – Natalie Woodbridge
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 5.

Jazz Thornton

Named New Zealand’s Young New Zealander of the Year in 2021, Jazz is a talented motivational speaker who inspires audiences of all ages to face challenges, identify opportunities, and become the change they wish to see in the world. With her focus on hope, resilience, and overcoming adversity, Jazz’s message is both inspiring and empowering.

Trigger Warning: This video contains discussions about sensitive topics, including suicide and sexual abuse. While we strive to approach these subjects with care and respect, we understand that they may be distressing for some viewers. If you are sensitive to these topics or may find them triggering, we advise you to exercise self-care and consider skipping this content. Remember, your well-being is important.

Guest – Jazz Thornton
www.jazzthornton.com

Host – Simon Bridges
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 4.

Abbas Nazari

In a world where challenges seem insurmountable, Abbas Nazari’s inspiring journey will remind us that resilience knows no borders. Abbas, a former refugee, and celebrated author, will share his captivating story of overcoming adversity and finding hope amidst the darkest of times.

Guest – Abbas Nazari
www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/abbas-nazari

Host – Simon Bridges
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 3.

David Downs 

Join us for episode three of our Resilience Skills Speaker Series featuring David Downs, CEO of The New Zealand Story. David is a living testament to resilience, having conquered a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma. Through his personal blog series titled “A Mild Touch of the Cancer” and his inspiring TEDx talk “Don’t Humour the Tumour,” he has shared his journey and provided insights on overcoming life-threatening illnesses.

Guest – David Downs
www.nzstory.govt.nz

Host – Simon Bridges
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 2.

Tim Kavermann

Welcome to Episode 2 of our enlightening series! We are thrilled to present Tim Kavermann, the writer behind our most popular article “Burnout, Depression and Recovery” here on our First Steps website. In a captivating live webinar held on Friday, May 19th at midday, Tim fearlessly delved into his personal experiences and shared invaluable insights to support small business owners grappling with burnout and its associated symptoms. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that promises to empower and uplift those navigating the challenges of burnout.

Guest – Tim Kavermann
www.kavermann.co.nz

Host – Simon Bridges
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Resilience Series
Episode 1.

Dr Lucy Hone

Join renowned global expert in resilience, Dr Lucy Hone, as she shares practical ways to cope with change and challenges, including when your business overwhelms you. Her top tips on building realistic resilience practices have been shared across a host of organizations ranging from Fortune 500s, government agencies and law firms to community groups and schools. Especially relevant to the pressures of running a small business, resilience as a skill can help put you in the driving seat.

Guest – Dr Lucy Hone
www.tedxchristchurch.com/lucy-hone

Host – Simon Bridges
www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

Do you need help now?

If you, or someone you know, requires crisis or emergency support, please reach out for help via the links below. You are not alone; there are FREE professional resources available to help you.

Do you need help now?

If you, or someone you know, requires crisis or emergency support, please reach out for help via the links below. You are not alone; there are FREE professional resources available to help you.