Simon Bridges: Generally Famous

The tables are turned when Simon puts the questions to Andrea Vance, journalist and author of Blue Blood, the best-selling book about National's struggles in the post-Key years. Andrea talks about growing up in Northern Ireland during the violence of The Troubles, working at the News of the World and why she loves Derry Girls.

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The parenting guru discusses the importance of the first 1000 days of human life, the problems with daycare and devices, and why 7-year-olds should get the vote. The "walking contradiction" also tells how he overcame his "Once Were Warriors" childhood and why he's got a replica of part of Doctor Who's spaceship in his home.

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Frustrated at being rebuffed by brokers, Sonya Williams helped found fin-tech phenomenon Sharesies. Six years on she's a "3EO" and it's one of Aotearoa New Zealand's biggest financial platforms. She tells Simon about the role of smashed avo on toast - and withstands rigorous questioning about the company's pineapple logo!

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World co-founder Dame Denise L'Estrange Corbet talks longevity in fashion, getting started and her challenging childhood. Other topics include the amount of black worn in New Zealand, why she's still okay with skinny models and her work as Patron of IHC NZ.

Warning: Dame Denise also talks about living with depression and a historic suicide attempt. If you, or anyone you know, needs help with their mental health, a range of organisations can help. They include the 1737 helpline, which offers free assistance from trained counsellors by phone and text 24 hours a day.

For more information about the wonderful work of the IHC, visit ihc.org.nz

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TV foodie Ganesh Raj tells Simon about his "gangster" mum and the grit he needed growing up in Singapore. The Eat Well For Less star reveals how he got healthy through meditation, fasting and ditching alcohol - and explains the role of hypnosis. Plus, he recalls his time on MTV, before trading Prince stories with Simon.

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From Shortland Street to Hollywood Boulevard: Direct from her home in sunny Santa Monica, Kim Crossman talks acting, fame and life in LA. She discusses the "Taika Effect" and being a "mule" for the Kiwi contingent in Hollywood, explains the benefits of owning a tarantula and shares a sickly story about her best night out. And, to Simon's delight, she reveals her extraordinary efforts to have a cup of tea with the Queen.

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Petra has been a household name since bursting onto our screens aged 22 as part of the Ice TV hosting team. The broadcaster, podcaster and media chaplain chats to Simon about turning 50, perceptions, menopause and why she's more than okay about going grey. She also talks candidly about her time on Breakfast and explains why she wouldn't change a thing.

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Generations collide when Simon meets wildly successful digital entrepreneur Lucy Blakiston. The 24-year-old is the co-founder of the SYSCA (Shit You Should Care About) empire which delivers news - and more - via emailed newsletters, social media and podcasts, and counts Joe Rogan and Ariana Grande among its 3.6 million social media followers. Lucy, who is probably New Zealand's biggest Harry Styles stan, explains why she wouldn't have her picture taken with Simon, considers whether she'll meet Harry next year and offers tips on talking like a member of Generation Z.

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It's the premiere episode, and Simon chats to Kiwi rowing icon Eric Murray about the toll of elite-level sport, adjusting to life after competition and his son Zac, who has autism. Eric also offers tips about appearing on reality TV - and recalls a memorable night with a swan. Eric is a patron of Autism NZ - you can find out more about the organisation at: https://autismnz.org.nz/

Warning: This episode contains discussion of issues related to mental health and a suspected suicide. There are a wide range of organisations offering help, including the free 1737 helpline. Call or text to speak to a trained counsellor, 24 hours a day.

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Expect the unexpected in Stuff's new podcast as Simon finds out what makes his generally famous - but always interesting - guests tick. Launching August 3!

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