The Social Wildlife
After leaving study during a degree in psychology and giving up my career opportunities in the NZ Army and fitness industry, in 2017, I was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison for the most significant sports steroid case in New Zealand history. This was a profound and formative experience enabling me to look back on my life, bringing awareness to some of the negative habits and dangerous decisions I was making.
You would think this would be the end, but after being released in 2018 after serving one year, although my perspective had changed dramatically, I would continue to repeat old self-serving cycles of risk-taking behaviour. Recent events, coupled with volatile relationships and negative social circles over the previous ten years, would finally bring me to the point of acceptance that I was the problem and that something drastic needed to change.
In this podcast, I will share my history and experiences openly, covering topics such as taking ownership, criminal behaviour, the prison experience, hostile environments, coping with stress and adversity, toxic relationships and social interactions, emotional triggers and vulnerability, drug use and addiction, anxiety and depression, building self-confidence, health, fitness and wellbeing, and recognising anti-social or harmful behaviour in yourself and others.
My goal is to provide perspective, motivate and encourage positive change while enabling support for anyone struggling with these aspects of life. Although the road to change is never easy, we are all far more capable than we give ourselves credit. Sharing these experiences, perspectives and intimate details of my life will take me out of my comfort zone, and if I can make a positive change, so can you.
Website: www.thesocialwildlife.com
The Social Wildlife on Instagram: thesocialwildlife
Follow Josh Townshend on Instagram: townshendjosh
The Social Wildlife
Re-naming Hunter: The Story of King Cass
On this episode, I sit down with Hunter Wilson, also known by his stage name, King Cass. I’ve known Hunter since high school, and while our interactions over the years have been limited, his story has always stood out to me. Hunter is one of the most resilient people I know. Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of six, he faced significant bullying and trauma, and later in his twenties, fell into addiction, which led to a period of meth-induced psychosis. Despite all of this, Hunter has turned his life around and is now a motivational speaker, hip hop artist, and youth worker.
In this episode, we dive into his incredible journey—from battling his inner demons to finding clarity and rebuilding his life. We talk about how music became his outlet for healing and a platform for advocacy. Hunter shares how he uses his story to inspire others, especially young people struggling with mental health, bullying, and addiction. His mission is to bring unity, raise awareness, and inspire change in the community. It’s a powerful conversation that really showcases the strength and determination it takes to turn a life around.
Follow Hunter on Instagram: kingcassnz
Follow The Social Wildlife on Instagram: thesocialwildlife
Follow Josh Townshend on Instagram: townshendjosh
