Paddy Gower on Overcoming Bullying & Alcoholism, Finding Connection in the Digital World

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In this episode, I sit down with one of New Zealand’s most
recognisable truth-tellers—journalist, documentarian, and author
Patrick Gower (aka PG).


PG is known for hard-hitting headlines, viral soundbites, and a
gift for connecting with Kiwis at every level. But behind the
viral moments and political showdowns is a man who’s wrestled
with identity, addiction, and self-worth—and come out the other
side with clarity, conviction, and purpose.


This conversation is part memoir, part manifesto, and part
reminder that change is hard—but possible. Especially if you
believe in the f***ing possible.


What You’ll Learn in This Episode:


•  The mental trick PG uses to stay focused and
optimistic—even in chaos
•  What really drove his drinking—and the breakthrough that
changed everything
•  Why connection (not perfection) is your real leadership
advantage
• The outrageous schoolyard scandal that’s somehow still making
headlines…


Why You Should Listen:


PG doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He talks openly about the awkward
years, the impact of bullying, the heartbreak of redundancy, and
the hidden pain behind being the “funny guy” in the room.


But he also talks about growth, about leadership, about mission.
And how it’s never too late to start again with purpose.


If you’re navigating change, battling self-doubt, or quietly
dreaming of more—this one’s for you.


You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll definitely never look at a
school lunch the same way again.


This episode was proudly sponsored by NZ Mortgages. You
can contact them here - https://www.nzmortgages.co.nz


Grab your copy of This is the F***ing News here -
http://bit.ly/3YpRC0I 

Connect with PG on Instagram here -
https://www.instagram.com/patrickgowernz/?hl=en

Connect with PG on LinkedIn here -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paddygowernz/?originalSubdomain=nz

Book PG for speaking here -
https://www.celebrityspeakers.co.nz/speakers/patrick-gower



-----


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James Laughlin is a High Performance Leadership Coach, Former
7-Time World Champion, Host of the Lead On Purpose Podcast and an
Executive Coach to high performers and leaders. James is based in
Christchurch, New Zealand.


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