"I spent a long time thinking that if I'm proud of anything, then it means [...] I'm too much" - Cassie Henderson.
Welcome to the Poppy Field, a quartlery wrap-up of the Tall Poppy Talk podcast!
Kia ora! After adventuring overseas and catching up with Kiwis on their OEs (wow that rhymed!) - I’m back reporting to you live from the ever-interesting United States. I try to avoid public chat about politics here because its just poor form, but that said, as an aspiring storyteller/journalist myself, I am fascinated by the chapter being written in the US history books right now. Stay tuned I guess.
Cassie Henderson’s quote in the header really struck a cord with me, as it aligns perfectly with the Tall Poppy Talk theme of celebrating success. As a wise woman once told me, “if I am too much, then go find less” - Lisa Lampanelli. It resonates with me because essentially it means that if you’re not someone’s cup of tea then hey, that’s alright! There are plenty of teas out there, more subtle, more attune to your tastebuds, and we can part ways here. I will not lessen myself for someone else.
ANYWAY, I turn now to some really remarkable stories. As part of the quarterly wrap up we’ve got a mere three Tall Poppies to highlight.
Mastering the mental: Marius van der Pol
If you’re after an insight to the mind of an elite athlete, this is your episode. Marius started out in the New Zealand Defence Special Forces (NZSAS) serving in Iraq, the Solomon Islands, and throughout NZ. Then during a standard workout with the NZSAS he decided to give the 500m indoor rower (lovingly known as the ‘erg’) a go. The PT hesitated after his piece, it appeared Marius had come within striking distance of the national record. So he went again, and sure enough now holds the NZ record with a frightening time of 1:14 - enough it appeared, to get himself in the door with Emirates Team NZ. Flash forward, Marius was part of the Champion America’s Cup (AC) team for AC75, and will compete again in the approaching 37th AC. Hear more about his compelling journey, & understand “the sheer power, grit and determination of van der Pol.” Listen HERE.
The GOAT: Mark Leishman
Starting out his on-air radio career in ‘77, to making his first TV debut in '81, and going on to hold strong as a pillar of the New Zealand broadcasting industry ever since - Mark truly is one of the greatest of all time. My Dad was particularly thrilled when I told him Mark was joining the podcast, with so many avenues to go down he shared his personal favourite: TUX Wonder Dogs. During the episode we learn behind the scenes info about the origins of the show, the beautiful dog Dexter, and how the show grew into something none of the Leishman family anticipated.
During this kōrero, I felt privileged to not only be yarning with Mark but witnessing a professional in his element. Having nearly 50-years of on-air experience, the man knows how to tell a story and he does just that. A proud Dad too, he dives into his family life and shares about the ambitiously talented trio of kids he has. Listen HERE.
‘Get them good enough’: Jenn Stautz
While Jenn is an expert Athletic Trainer who can treat physical injuries, she is also an advocate for mental health and very knowledgable. Having specialized in the world of D1 collegiate sport, Jenn has extensive experience in the multi-layered factors that contribute to an athletes overall wellbeing. Whether it was working with 100+ rowers during peak race season, or traveling constantly with the gymnastic team, Jenn has a plethora of stories to share about how directly impactful someones mental state has been to their physical execution. “Mental health affects everything, even down to how you take words.” & what’s more, is she details the difficult balancing act of getting athletes ‘good enough’ to compete while trying to treat long-term injuries.
Personally, this episode was an opportunity to thank Jenn for the way she guided me into a new era of self-care. If you’re after an insight into the world of collegiate athletics, all the moving parts and complexities, this is a great listen. Listen HERE
What’s in the Pipeline?
I’ve lined up a few entrepreneurs from NZ, kiwis who are making a big splash abroad and who have exciting things to share about the mahi it takes to grow a business. As we head into the Olympics also, I look forward to sharing some episodes with athletes who have or are competing in Paris 2024. How EPIC! Every episode I have introduces me to someone new, engaging, and inspiring. I absolutely LOVE this Poppy Field, and appreciate anyone helping its growth. Please reach out if you have suggestions, advice, wisdom, or a guest recommendation!
Read/Watch/Listen Reccos:
Last thing, beyond listening to podcasts (of course) I know heaps of you are keen to uncover new sources of entertainment or learning. So here are a handful of books/shows/etc I recommend!
Book: ‘The Hunger Games’ as word of a new book spread, I have dived back into the trilogy and my word - it has not disappointed.
Listen: ‘Real Pod’ with Victoria Garrick Brown. A role model of mine, who I had the pleasure of meeting in May when she visited NYC. Fan girl moment!
Watch: ‘Inside Out Two’ & go back to watch the first movie too!
Goodbye Giggle
“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go” - Oscar Wilde.
Couldn't help thinking listening to you and Cassie talk about your role models... how much the two of you are role models yourselves. Being authentic and going after your dreams. Great job!