From Dream to Reality: What I’ve Learnt Launching My Podcast 🎙🎧

What really happens when you finally say yes to that big idea you've been dreaming about? In this special solo episode, I’m reflecting on what the last three months have really been like since launching the Ideas That Inspire podcast. The joy, the challenges, and the honest lessons I’ve discovered along the way.

⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The surprising insights I learnt about myself while creating the podcast
• What it really means to be a thoughtful and confident interviewer
• Why defining your own version of success matters more than chasing numbers
• How using AI behind the scenes became a total game-changer for me
• What’s next for Ideas That Inspire and how you might be part of it?

✅ Who this episode is for:

This one’s for the community and any purpose-driven humans who are dreaming of bringing an idea to life, or simply need a reminder that trying something new can be scary and exciting.

Tune in as I share what’s next for the podcast and how I’m creating space to come back to myself, while staying open to what the next season might hold.

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

What if your emotions could be the key to better physical health? 🤔

In this episode, I’m joined by Kim Knight from Art Of Health — also known as the Kiwi Health Detective. Kim is a Root Cause and Lifestyle Medicine practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience helping people heal from chronic pain and fatigue.

After overcoming multiple chronic illnesses herself, she’s passionate about helping others tap into the body’s natural ability to heal — and trust themselves when it comes to their own health. Her work focuses on getting to the root cause of health challenges — and often, that root is buried in unprocessed emotions.

We dive into the fascinating connection between emotions and the body, how emotional energy gets stored in different organs, and simple tools to help you validate, acknowledge and process feelings instead of pushing them aside and hoping they’ll disappear.

⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How emotions can physically impact your health and energy levels
• Why anxiety and depression are symptoms, not emotions themselves
• Practical tools to recognise, allow, and clear emotional energy
• The power of emotional intelligence and how it can change your wellbeing

✅ Who this episode is for:

This conversation is for anyone curious about the link between mind and body, navigating chronic health challenges, or wanting to build more emotional resilience as an entrepreneur, business owner, or human.

Hit play and remember: If emotions have ever felt overwhelming — you’re not alone, and understanding them might be the first step to feeling better.

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guest Info: Kim Knight from Art Of Health

Website: www.artofhealth.co.nz for support with health issues

Website: www.taohealthqigong.com Qigong & transformation of consciousness

Website: www.emotionalalchemyacademy.com for emotional intelligence training

Facebook: @KimKnightArtofHealth 

Podcast: www.podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-kiwi-health-dectective 

YouTube: @artofhealth1 

Free Video Training: www.emotionalalchemyacademy.com/free.training 5 steps to dissolve emotions

Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

Turns out, good sleep doesn’t start at night — it starts in the morning. 😮 🌅

If you’ve ever found yourself wide awake at 1am, googling “how to fall asleep faster,” this episode is for you. I’m joined by Sleep Therapist Kate Blyth from Intuitive Sleep, whose own battle with chronic insomnia led her to discover a simpler, more compassionate approach to rest — one that helped me finally fall asleep easily and sleep through the night after years of struggle.

Kate shares why sleep is an innate process your body already knows how to do — and how the pressure to “fix” your sleep might be what’s keeping you stuck. We unpack common myths, explore the science of circadian rhythms and sleep drive, and look at how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) can gently retrain your brain for more reliable sleep.

⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why good sleep starts in the morning — not at bedtime
• How accepting wakefulness can lead to better rest
• Why quality sleep matters more than clocking eight hours
• Practical tools to reset your sleep without gimmicks or quick fixes

✅ Who this episode is for:

This conversation is for anyone struggling with insomnia, feeling overwhelmed by sleep advice, or wanting to feel more rested, focused, and clear-headed as a business owner, parent, or creative entrepreneur.

Hit play and remember: If sleep has ever felt like a struggle — you’re not alone, and the solution might be simpler than you think.

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guest: Kate Blyth from Intuitive Sleep

Website: www.intuitivesleep.co.nz

Instagram: @intuitive.sleep 

Facebook: @intuitivesleep 

Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

In a world full of parenting pressure, what if you gave yourself permission to be imperfect?

In this honest and heart-centred episode, I’m joined by Sophie Moskowitz, founder of Imperfect Parents — an inclusive, parent education community supporting families through the messy, ever-changing stages of early parenthood.

What began with Sophie sharing her own experience on Instagram during the 2020 lockdowns has grown into a thriving community offering pregnancy circles, antenatal classes, nature playgroups, and inclusive parent support groups for all kinds of families.

Sophie’s mission is clear: to help parents feel less alone, let go of perfection, and connect through compassion and shared experience. Whether you're navigating newborn life or just craving more connection, this conversation will leave you feeling seen and supported.

⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why parenting was never meant to be done alone — and how community makes all the difference
• How embracing imperfection and self-compassion supports your wellbeing
• The benefits of open-ended and nature-based play for children’s growth
• How inclusivity and safe spaces can transform the parenting experience
• What it really takes to build a purpose-led business while navigating motherhood

✅ Who this episode is for:

Parents (including the LGBTQIA+ community), parent-founders, community builders, or anyone seeking a more grounded, compassionate approach to parenting and connection.

Hit play and remember: If you’re finding parenting hard, that’s because it is hard — and you’re not doing anything wrong!

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guest: Sophie Moskowitz from Imperfect Parents

Website: www.imperfectparents.co.nz

Instagram: @imperfectparents.nz 

Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

What if the way we build our homes could reshape the future of our health, communities, and the planet? 🏡 🌏

In this eye-opening episode, I’m joined by Mark Anderson — founder of MA Building, a values-led construction business based in Wānaka, New Zealand. Mark is on a mission to raise industry standards through sustainable building practices, while fostering leadership and personal growth in the industry.

We dive into his journey as a young builder launching a business at just 27, to becoming a champion of passive homes and positive work culture. Mark brings a refreshingly honest take on what it means to lead with purpose in a traditionally tough industry.

⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why passive homes are 90% more efficient — and how smart design supports our health and the environment
• Common myths about energy-efficient homes (yes, you can open the windows!)
• Practical ways to improve energy efficiency in your current or future home
• Why backing yourself, building resilience, and staying connected to community is key to business success
• How personal growth and conscious leadership create ripple effects — at work, at home, and beyond

✅ Who this episode is for:

Eco-conscious homeowners, builders, leaders, or anyone curious about healthier homes, conscious construction, and what it means to live and lead with purpose.

Hit play and be inspired by a down-to-earth Kiwi builder showing us what’s possible when you choose to do things differently — and make a difference.

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time. 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guests: Mark Anderson from MA Building

Website: www.mabuilding.co.nz

Instagram: @mabuilding_wanaka 

Facebook: @MABuildingWanaka

LinkedIn: @mark-anderson 

Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

When women speak their truth, they light the way for others. ✨

In this heartfelt and uplifting episode, I’m joined by Carol Beaumont and Michelle Emery — the inspiring duo behind Her Courage Speaks, a platform that empowers women to transform pain into purpose through honest storytelling and meaningful community.

Together, we explore how sharing our most vulnerable moments can be a powerful gateway to healing — not just for ourselves, but for those who hear our stories. Carol and Michelle open up about the personal challenges that shaped their mission, the courage it takes to own your story, and the real magic that unfolds when women gather in safe, supportive spaces to connect.

You’ll also hear what it’s really like to go into business with a longtime friend, what to expect at one of their beautiful, live events, and why self-care and community are essential when navigating and overcoming trauma.

⬇️ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why vulnerability is key to building authentic connection and community
• How storytelling can shift your mindset and empower others
• Tips for public speaking and moving through imposter syndrome
• The importance of self-care, safe spaces, and asking for help
• How collaboration and community support create lasting ripple effects

✅ Who this episode is for:

This one’s for women navigating healing, purpose, or new beginnings; anyone craving meaningful connection; and those who believe in the power of real, raw, courageous conversations.

Press play and let this episode remind you: you don’t have to do it alone. 💕

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time! 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guests: Carol Beaumont and Michelle Emery from Her Courage Speaks

Website: www.hercourage.co.nz

Instagram - Carol Beaumont: @hercourage_carol 

Instagram - Michelle Emery: @hercouragerises 

Events: www.hercourage.co.nz/event-list 

Support the podcast and order your Ocean Foam Hand and Body Wash from Ascent:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

What if something as simple as your hand wash could be part of the solution to plastic pollution?

In this inspiring episode, we dive into the story behind Ascent, a New Zealand-based brand that’s rethinking personal care through sustainability and circular design. I’m joined by founder Patrick Jurriaans, the visionary behind Ascent’s Buy Once, Refill Forever approach—a refreshing model in a world overwhelmed by plastic.

What started as Patrick’s love for the ocean quickly grew into a mission to reduce plastic waste and shift consumer habits. Through Ascent, he’s proving that sustainable products can still offer quality, convenience, and thoughtful design. We talk about what it really takes to launch an eco-conscious business, why recycling isn’t the solution we think it is, and how small daily choices can ripple into meaningful impact.

You’ll also hear why businesses must take responsibility for their products beyond the point of sale—including what happens at the end of their life cycle. Patrick shares how Ascent is paving the way for new brands to embrace circular models that serve both people and the planet. Plus, he opens up about the inspiration behind their Ocean Foam Hand & Body Wash, and why using natural, locally sourced New Zealand ingredients is at the heart of their mission.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• What a circular model really is—and why supporting brands using it matters more than ever before
• The impact of plastic waste and how no waste refills can be a game-changer
• Why patience, research, and perseverance matters in entrepreneurship
• Why convenience is key to helping people make more eco-conscious decisions
• The future of conscious consumerism and how you can be part of it

Who this episode is for:

Perfect for eco-conscious consumers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about building a business that puts the planet first.

Hit play, and let’s explore what’s possible when you combine passion, purpose, and innovation.

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time! 🌟

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guest: Patrick Jurriaans from Ascent

Website: www.ascentrefills.nz

Instagram: @ascentrefills.nz

Facebook: Ascent Refills 

Support the podcast and Ascent! Order the:

East Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

West Coast Hand & Body Wash Set 

East Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Gift Set

East & West Coast - Hand & Body Wash Duo set

Use code IDEAS10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount or click here to shop with the discount link.

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

Yes! Small daily choices really can make a big difference for the planet!

In this episode, I chat with Kate Fenwick, founder of Waste-Ed With Kate and a straight-talking waste educator who’s here to challenge the way we think about waste. She’s on a mission to help Kiwis rethink how we buy, use, and dispose of everyday items. 

Kate breaks down what actually happens to our waste, why our throwaway culture needs a major rethink and how simple changes in our daily habits really can reduce waste in a big way. With her relatable approach to sustainability, Kate shares that you don’t have to be perfect to make a difference.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The surprising truth about recycling (and what actually works)
• Why we need to rethink how we vote with our dollars to shift supply and demand
• The “touchy" life cycle of a broccoli (yes, really!) and why you’ll never look at corn the same way again
• The hidden cost of a world built for convenience and constant upgrades—and what we can do about it
• Why small actions do matter and how to start making a difference today

Who this episode is for:

If you’re new to sustainability or already making changes, this conversation will inspire you to rethink waste, make more conscious choices, and take simple steps toward a more sustainable future.

Ready to be inspired? Hit subscribe and join the conversation!

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time!

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Guest Information

Guest: Kate Fenwick from Waste-Ed With Kate

Website: www.wastedkate.co.nz

Instagram: @wastedwithkate

Facebook: Waste-Ed with Kate 

TikTok: @wasted.kate

YouTube: @WasteEdwithKate

Events: https://www.wastedkate.co.nz/live-events

Documentary: https://www.wastedkate.co.nz/wasted-nz 

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Ideas That Inspire © 2025 by Emily Gifford is licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0

What if listening to one podcast could change the course of your life?

In this very first episode of Ideas That Inspire, I (Emily!) share my journey—from discovering podcasts in 2011 to launching this show today. I take you behind the scenes of my unconventional career path, the personal and professional challenges I’ve faced, and the pivotal moments that shaped who I am. If you’ve ever felt drawn to something bigger but weren’t sure where to start, this episode is for you.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How a single podcast episode sparked my love for learning and personal growth.
• My journey from TV production to health coaching to entrepreneurship.
• The unexpected life lessons I learned from moving countries, embracing change, and following my intuition.
• Why Ideas That Inspire exists and what you can expect from future episodes.

Who this episode is for:

If you're a creative entrepreneur, a budding podcaster, or someone who loves inspiring stories about redefining success, this episode is for you! 

Ready to be inspired? Hit subscribe and join the conversation!

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time!

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality

Welcome to Ideas That Inspire! A podcast for purpose-driven entrepreneurs, creatives, and changemakers who want to make a real difference. If you’re passionate about sustainability, innovation, and uplifting others, this is the place for you!

In this podcast, I chat with eco-conscious business owners, creative entrepreneurs, and inspiring individuals who are redefining success and taking action to support our planet. Together, we’ll explore their journeys, the lessons they’ve learned, and the impact they’re making—one idea at a time.

Ready to be inspired? Hit subscribe and join the conversation!

Let’s light up the world together, one idea at a time!

Follow & Connect

Website: www.ideasthatinspire.com

Instagram: @ideas.that.inspire

YouTube: @ideasthatinspirecom

Listen & Subscribe

On Your Favourite Podcast Platform Here

Join the Community

Sign up for my newsletter

Want to be a guest on the podcast?

Apply here

Work with Me

Book A Clarity Call

Music & Sound Effects from Pixabay

Intro: Happy by John_Sib

Outro: Upbeat Ventures by Pumpupthemind

Sound Effect: Notification by Sound Reality