Mike Minogue’s career appears to be a steady ascent — from What We Do in the Shadows to Wellington Paranormal and national radio success. But behind the perceived highs were terrifying improv auditions, self-doubt, and years of chasing opportunities that could disappear overnight.

In this episode, Mike reveals the devastating moment he was fired from a long-awaited project only five days before filming. What felt like a crushing rejection became the turning point that reshaped his mindset. Instead of waiting for permission from others, he chose to create his own work, back himself, and live by a simple rule: if it scares you, do it.

A candid and deeply honest conversation about failure, resilience, and refusing to be average.

This is a Frank Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Karen McMillan is a 25-book international bestselling author — but behind her success is a story of profound loss and resilience. After caring for both parents through cancer and navigating clinical depression, Karen later faced her own diagnosis and the shock of redundancy.

In this episode, she reflects on grief, faith, survival, and the leap into full-time writing that reshaped her future.

This is a Frank Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hayley Holt’s career spans elite ballroom dancing, competitive snowboarding, and becoming one of New Zealand’s most recognisable TV presenters.

But behind the highlights is a story of resilience shaped by sacrifice, public failure, and profound personal loss. In this episode, Hayley opens up about the realities of starting over, from stepping away from high-performance careers to navigating grief after losing her baby Frankie. She reflects on the conscious choice to move forward not by erasing the past, but by carrying it differently and redefining success on her own terms.

From setting boundaries to embracing vulnerability and stepping into a new chapter of motherhood, Hayley shares the mindset that helped her rebuild.

An honest conversation about identity, healing, and finding strength in life’s “golden cracks.”

This is a Frank Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.