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
Youth and Finding Independence
In this episode, I sit down with Morgan Calas, head of mountain biking at Christchurch Adventure Park, to explore resilience, independence, and the powerful role of community in outdoor sports.
With over two decades in the cycling industry, Morgan shares his journey from being bullied as a child to finding empowerment and self-confidence through mountain biking. What began as a love for mechanics grew into a lifelong career and passion for teaching.
Now, as an instructor, Morgan is dedicated to mentoring young riders, helping them build resilience through the physical and mental challenges that come with the sport. We discuss how experiences on the trails teach essential life skills like decision-making and self-reliance, and how Morgan's own background helps him empathize with youth facing social and personal hurdles.
Together, we reflect on the value of creating a supportive environment where kids can confront obstacles, make mistakes, and grow. For both of us, it’s clear that these outdoor experiences build confidence, compassion, and a sense of community that will carry them far beyond the trails.
Find Morgan on Instagram: morgsmtb
Follow The Social Wildlife on Instagram: thesocialwildlife
Follow Josh Townshend on Instagram: townshendjosh
