The Essence Within You

Conversations with fascinating people about their experiences, their challenges, what shaped them and the essence of who they really are.

Season 2

Keri Little
Episode 2

Keri Little

Photographer, mentor and connector Keri Little explores presence, authenticity and self-discovery, and how helping people feel truly seen can unlock confidence, connection and a stronger sense of self.

Michael Dearth
Episode 1

Michael Dearth

Restaurateur, owner of The Grove and Baduzzi, MasterChef judge and sober sommelier. Michael explores hospitality, leadership, connection and creating experiences people remember long after they leave.

Season 1

James Norris
Episode 9

James Norris

Goodness Me co-founder James Norris explores purpose-driven leadership, community impact and self-leadership, sharing the lessons and values behind building a recognised New Zealand brand that gives back.

Joshua Kirk
Episode 8

Joshua Kirk

Orchestral conductor Joshua Kirk explores purpose, resilience, leadership and the transformative power of music, sharing his journey of following a calling, navigating rejection and embracing continuous learning.

Michael Brake
Episode 7

Michael Brake

Olympic gold medalist Michael Brake opens up about elite sport, pressure, burnout and identity, sharing what it takes to rebuild purpose and discover who you are beyond performance and achievement.

Tayla Alexander
Episode 6

Tayla Alexander

Internationally acclaimed soprano Tayla Alexander shares the realities behind a creative career, exploring music, perfectionism, fear, resilience, identity and the courage to become truly comfortable with who you are.

Ella Kohn-Taylor
Episode 5

Ella Kohn-Taylor

Outdoor educator Ella Kohn-Taylor explores nature, self-leadership and personal growth, sharing how outdoor experiences can help young people build confidence, resilience and belief in themselves.

Eva Keim
Episode 4

Eva Keim

Eva Keim shares an extraordinary journey of resilience, courage and personal growth, exploring what it takes to push beyond limitations, build mental strength and embrace vulnerability along the way.

Caitlin O'Reilly
Episode 3

Caitlin O'Reilly

Ultramarathon swimmer and Ocean 7 record holder Caitlin O'Reilly shares the courage, resilience, discipline and mental strength behind taking on some of the world's toughest open-water challenges.

Kelly Brett
Episode 2

Kelly Brett

Cuisine Magazine editor and Women in Food & Drink NZ founder Kelly Brett explores hospitality, storytelling, ambition and the pressure, resilience and creativity behind building a career around passion.

Richard Loseby
Episode 1

Richard Loseby

Award-winning creative director, bestselling author, storyteller and sailor Richard Loseby shares how adventure, creativity, curiosity and unforgettable encounters have shaped the way he sees the world.

The Sue Kohn Taylor 2026. All rights reserved.