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
Standing Up Again with Mike Brown
On this episode, I sit down with Mike Brown, an inspiring advocate for resilience, positivity, and personal growth. Mike is the host of the Stand Up Again podcast, where he shares powerful insights on overcoming adversity, healing from trauma, and rebuilding confidence after life’s toughest challenges. We discuss his unique journey, from navigating toxic relationships and single parenthood to creating an uplifting presence on social media that inspires men to embrace empowerment and positivity. Originally from Christchurch, Mike has lived across the world, including South America, where he ran a bike school for kids. Through his experiences, he’s developed a deep understanding of mindset shifts, personal development, and mental toughness, all of which he shares in this conversation.
Our discussion delves into the pivotal moments that shaped Mike’s perspective, including his time living in vastly different cultures, working in high-energy hospitality spaces, and ultimately returning to New Zealand with a renewed sense of purpose. He reflects on the importance of self-awareness, stepping into one’s power, and breaking free from people-pleasing tendencies that can lead to emotional disconnection. Mike’s story is a testament to the power of personal transformation, and he offers valuable insights on standing tall in the face of adversity. Whether you’re navigating challenges in relationships, struggling with self-worth, or looking to cultivate resilience, this conversation provides both inspiration and practical advice to help you stand up again.
Follow Mike Brown on Instagram: mike_brown_stand_up
Follow The Social Wildlife on Instagram: thesocialwildlife
Follow Josh Townshend on Instagram: townshendjosh
