What glues together the true NZ bogan identity? Spoiler alert: it’s more than flannel shirts and burnt rubber—it’s an unwavering dedication to heavy metal music (and maybe a few suspiciously loud Friday nights). In this episode, Dr. Matt Crawford unpacks why the NZ bogan identity is about family, belonging, and cranking up heavy metal music until the neighbours beg for mercy.

We explore how owning your NZ bogan identity is a power move, and how heavy metal music isn’t just a soundtrack, but a lifeline. Are the stereotypes true? Is the NZ bogan identity misunderstood? And can heavy metal music really improve your mood—or just your driving record?

If you’re proudly sporting your NZ bogan identity (bonus points if you know all the lyrics to classic heavy metal music anthems), this episode is your backstage pass. And if you’ve ever felt judged for your love of heavy metal music, you’ll find out why that’s something to wear as a medal of honour.

Plug in, turn up the heavy metal music, and celebrate your NZ bogan identity—louder, prouder, and with more guitar riffs than ever before.

🎙️ BOGANS, BIAS & BLACK SABBATH | Dr. Matt Crawford on Mental Health, Stereotypes & Why Bogan Identity Matters

We’re in New Zealand—home of sheep, world-class rugby, epic landscapes… and the bogan. Yeah, the bogan. You’ve heard the word. Maybe you’ve lived it. But what does it really mean?

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Matt Crawford, senior psych lecturer and metalhead, about how bogan identity is more than just mullets and burnouts. It’s a symbol of belonging, rebellion, and mental resilience.

🧠 We unpack:

• Why heavy metal is more than noise—it's therapy

• How bogan identity shapes self-worth and community

• The psychology behind stereotypes, labels, and group belonging

• Why the brain craves categories—and how it sometimes gets it very wrong

• How owning your label can change your mental health for the better

Crawford breaks it down: identity isn't just about who you are. It’s who you belong to. Whether you’re cranking Sabbath, revving a V8, or just trying to make sense of yourself in a judgmental world—this one’s for you.

🤘 This episode hits hard for anyone into New Zealand heavy metal, blue-collar culture, or questioning the boxes we’re all shoved into.

Five mentions? You got it:
Bogan identity, bogan identity, bogan identity, nz bogans, bogan identity.

What do you get when you cross a Pantera fan, a battle vest, and a therapy room?
You get Richard — the most unexpected New Zealand therapist you’ll ever meet.

Forget soft piano music and polite nodding. This New Zealand therapist walks in with a beanie, band patches, and a full bogan grin. He’s not your usual counsellor. He’s a metal head counsellor, and proud of it.

Richard’s not just smashing stigma—he’s moshing through it. In this episode, the metal head counsellor shows us that sometimes the best way to talk about your feelings… is to scream them with a pirate metal band.
(Yeah, that actually happens.)

This isn’t your mum’s mindfulness podcast. This is full-blown bogan New Zealand wisdom with a headbang and a heart.

We dive into what it’s really like to be a New Zealand therapist in a world that still expects ties and clean-shaven faces. Spoiler: Richard brings neither. But he does bring empathy, humour, and the kind of honesty that hits harder than a double kick pedal.

Whether you’ve ever doubted therapy, or you just want to hear a bogan New Zealand legend talk about stage-diving mid-set (true story), you’ll want to watch this one.

Because behind the metal head counsellor persona is someone who really listens—and doesn’t judge you for your taste in music (unless it’s smooth jazz).

So if you’ve ever felt like a weirdo, an outsider, or just a full-blown member of the bogan New Zealand community trying to get through the day—this is for you.

🖤 Like, comment your most bogan moment, and subscribe for more real-as yarns from Aotearoa’s loudest legends.

Watch the full video here:

https://youtu.be/haqi7JiUQGw

Ever met a therapist who listens to Pantera, rocks a battle vest, and casually drops mental health wisdom between metal gigs?

Meet Richard — a full-on New Zealand bogan, frontline mental health worker, and proud metalhead who’s smashing stereotypes louder than a double kick pedal. 🤘

In this episode, we talk bogan pride, brutal honesty, pirate metal therapy (yes, really), and what it’s like being the most unorthodox therapist in the country.

Richard doesn’t just talk about mental health — he lives it, growls through it, and helps others survive it with black humor and black t-shirts.

So if you’ve ever felt like the world doesn’t get you…
If you’ve ever been called “too much”…
Or if you just want to see what counseling looks like with a Slayer soundtrack—this one's for you.

🔔 Stick around for the wild gig stories, life advice, and emotional gut-punches you didn’t see coming. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll walk away feeling a little more understood.

You can watch the video version here:

https://youtu.be/jSTeV7dx0yQ

What even is a bogan? In this episode, we don’t just ask the question — we live through the answers. 🎧

Join us in the gritty, hilarious, and honest world of New Zealand’s heavy metal and bogan culture. Featuring Dave, Sam, Jolene, and Hamish, this isn’t about stereotypes — it’s about real people navigating music, labels, mental health, tattoos, and the power of self-expression.

Hamish thought he was just "bad at life" — turns out, he had ADHD. Jolene was told no one hires women in her industry — she made it anyway. Sam took a one-way ticket to a metal tour with no plan. Dave breaks down identity in a way your philosophy teacher never could.

🔥 From burnouts to breakdowns, from headbanging to heartbreak, these stories crank the volume on what it means to be 100% yourself.

🎧 Listen now to learn, laugh, and maybe even scream (just a little bit).

watch here:

https://youtu.be/ogLcTcGvNDc

🔍
What is a bogan in NZ culture, heavy metal and identity podcast, ADHD and creativity stories, women in tattoo culture NZ, personal stories of identity, Kiwi bogan life, New Zealand subcultures podcast, music and mental health stories, being different in New Zealand

🏷️
NZ bogan culture, heavy metal stories, Hamish Blood podcast, ADHD in adults, tattoo industry NZ, women in subcultures, Kiwi music identity, cultural labels podcast, alternative lifestyle NZ, New Zealand podcasts

🎸 Ever met someone who wears steel-cap boots, loves loud music, and once did a suicide tequila shot (don’t try this at home, kids 😅)? Meet Hamish Blood — a proud New Zealand bogan with a big heart, wild stories, and ADHD superpowers! 🧠⚡

We talk about music, funny party fails, Māori pride, and what it really means to be yourself — even if that means waking up next to a gas station once or twice! ⛽🤣

Watch the video version here:

https://youtu.be/VNLjLSGyUqE?si=28Y8zAGpfgI7LqrT

Meet Jolene Tempest – Tattoo Artist, Heavy Metal Singer, and Proud New Zealand Bogan

Jolene Tempest isn’t just a tattoo artist—she’s also the powerful voice behind a New Zealand heavy metal band. As a self-described boganette (Female version of bogan), Jolene lives a life that breaks the mold and embraces everything loud, bold, and real.

In this interview, Jolene opens up about what it means to live as a New Zealand bogan and be part of the heavy metal scene. She shares her journey into tattooing, what it’s like to be a woman in a male-dominated music genre, and how she deals with people who judge her just for being different.

From motorcycles to music, and from ink to identity, Jolene talks about the things that make her feel alive—and why she wouldn’t change a thing. Her story is a reminder that being different is something to be proud of, and that staying true to yourself is what really matters.

If you’re into music, tattoos, or just love hearing from people who carve their own path in life, this video is for you.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• What it really means to be a New Zealand bogan

• How tattoos and heavy metal culture connect

• Why being yourself—loudly and proudly—is the ultimate power move

  
  

  Watch the full video here:

  https://youtu.be/V-fgwjRRTvI

🎸💚 As NZ Music Month wraps up, I want to give a massive shoutout to the amazing guests who joined me on the podcast. You brought the riffs, the rhythm, the real talk—and reminded us why local music matters. Here’s to you, you glorious legends:Steve Francis 🤘🎤Steve proved that being an outcast just means you haven’t found your mosh pit yet. Even when metal wasn’t “cool,” he cranked it up anyway—and found connection, community, and the courage to be himself. Loud guitars, louder heart. 🖤Nick Clark 🥁🎸ADHD? Learning struggles? Nick turned them into superpowers. He’s now an artist, musician, teacher, and full-time legend. Also probably has three side projects and a drum solo happening right now. 🎨💥Nick Granville 🎶🎸Nick’s never had a “normal” job and we fully support that life choice. From jazz to rock to “wait, what key is this in?”, he’s always ready. Cool under pressure, fast with a fretboard, and plays for the love, not the LinkedIn. 🎧🔥Mark Mundell 📚🎮Mark writes songs inspired by old books, comics, and video games—and somehow makes it all sound metal. He’s the wizard of Wellington’s heavy scene, summoning catharsis with every scream. Total bard energy. 🧙‍♂️⚡Sam Leamy 🎹🎸Sam’s unique brain is his secret sauce. Being autistic gave him a fresh way of seeing—and hearing—the world. Now he crafts music that’s honest, interesting, and full of feeling. Also: ultimate bandmate vibes. 💫💬Sam Sheppard 🥁🔥Raised on Iron Maiden and good taste, Sam brings heart, humour, and hammering drums to every band. For him, metal is freedom. Therapy. A full-body YES. Also probably the guy keeping your group chat alive. 🧨🤟Ben Mulchin 🏟️🎛️Scientist turned venue wizard, Ben runs Valhalla like a boss. Without him, half of Wellington’s gigs wouldn’t happen. He’s proof that you don’t need to play an instrument to change the game—just care a lot and know how to fix a PA at 11pm. 🙌🎟️💥 To all of you—thank you. For your passion, your stories, and your sound.NZ Music Month was louder, prouder, and way more awesome because of you. 🎉See you at the next gig—or side stage with snacks. 😉🎤#NZMusicMonth #SupportLocalMusic #ThanksLegends #MetalWhānau #ValhallaVibes #HeavyMetalHearts #AotearoaSounds🍿

Get ready to dive deep into the world where bogan culture and heavy metal collide, as we sit down with Sam Sheppard—renowned drummer, audio engineer, and true heavy metal devotee. He is also the front man of a heavy metal band Imperial Slave - hailing from Palmerston North in New Zealand.In this episode, you'll get an insider perspective on what it really means to be a bogan in the heavy metal scene, and why this unique subculture remains such a powerful force in New Zealand and beyond.Sam shares his own story of growing up , blasting Metallica and Iron Maiden, and navigating the challenges—and wild fun—of playing in heavy metal bands. From recounting crazy stories on tour, recording in Berlin, and building a tight-knit community around music, Sam reveals the unfiltered reality of a life fully immersed in heavy metal. You’ll also hear his take on the often misunderstood bogan label: is it just about mullets and classic metal, or is there something more meaningful at its core?Whether you’re proudly bogan, a heavy metal enthusiast, or just curious about this raw corner of music culture, this episode is packed with laughter, real talk, and insider advice for anyone looking to dive into the world of heavy metal. Expect to discover the connections between bogan identity and heavy metal bands—the riffs, camaraderie, and freedom that make this lifestyle unforgettable.What’s in it for you? You’ll walk away with a genuine understanding of bogan culture and the heavy metal scene, hear never-before-told stories from the road, and get practical insights on music, creativity, and thriving as an outsider. If you love metal, are intrigued by the bogan spirit, or just want unfiltered behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is for you.Turn it up and connect to the true heart of bogan and heavy metal culture!New Zealand Music Month and New Zealand Music Culture. New Zealand heavy Metal.

You can find the band here:https://www.facebook.com/ImperialSlave/

--------------bogan culture, heavy metal, Sam Sheppard, New Zealand metal, metal bands, rock music, audio engineering, metal community, band life, metal interviews, metal drumming, music podcast, metal stories, musician insights, metal fan, alternative culture, music lifestyle, band tour, recording music, underground music, metal scene

Bogans of New Zealand! In this episode, we talk with Dave Snell, who wrote the book “Bogan - An insiders guide to Metal, Mullets, and Mayhem.” Dave knows a lot about what it means to be a bogan and shares cool stories about growing up loving heavy metal, rock music, and being part of New Zealand’s working class culture.What is a bogan?

In New Zealand, “bogan” is a word for someone who likes loud rock music, drives cool cars, and doesn’t care what others think about how they dress or what kind of music they listen to. Some people think bogans are uneducated or rough, but Dave shows that bogans can be smart, kind, and have their own interesting culture.In this interview, Dave tells us about writing his book, going to concerts, and what it’s like to be a bogan in New Zealand. He explains how music, friends, and working hard are important parts of the bogan life. Dave also talks about why some people judge bogans and why those ideas are wrong.

f you want to learn what makes New Zealand bogans so unique and fun, or you’re interested in heavy metal, rock music, or Kiwi culture, this video is for you!

Dave Snell’s book “Bogan an insiders guide to metal mullet and mayhem” is a great read for anyone who wants to understand more about everyday people in New Zealand.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment if you enjoyed the video!#bogans #newzealand #davesnell #boganbook #kiwiculture #rockmusic #heavymetal #workingclass #identity #subculture #nzbogans #aotearoa #davesnellbogan

You can watch the video here:

https://youtu.be/5kRqbk02X3c

Sam's story is a blend of cultures and sounds, having been born in the UK and moving to New Zealand multiple times during his childhood. He takes us back to his early days of musical discovery, listening to his parents' records and feeling a profound connection to The Stranglers and other iconic bands.This episode dives deep into Sam's unique musical path—from piano lessons at the age of five to exploring the electrifying world of heavy metal. Sam opens up about his experiences as a neurodivergent artist and how his autism diagnosis in 2021 has influenced his understanding of himself and his creative process.Join us as Sam candidly discusses the highs and lows of forming bands, his eclectic music influences that range from atmospheric sludge metal to pop, and the liberating nature of letting go of preconceived ideas in music creation.Don't miss out on:-Sam's amusing anecdote of singing Stranglers' lyrics as a child-How an encounter with a Metallica tape at age 8 changed his life-Insights into playing in various bands across New Zealand and Australia-His heartfelt advice for young neurodivergent musiciansSam's gigs:Drums at After The FleshAmbient Sonic Maximism at ThoughtsexplodethruskullsNoisesmith/Atmospheric Tantrums at Opium EaterComposer/Performer/Producer at SporkConjurer of sonic nightmares at Opiate SleeperDJ Doran at The Anger Management ShowStudied at New Zealand School of Music—Te Kōkī, Victoria University of Wellington

Mark Mundell is a passionate enthusiast of science fiction, video games, and heavy metal music, having developed a love for these interests over time.

Fond of immersive gaming experiences, Mark finds joy in being absorbed in fantastical worlds, despite the mixed opinions such games elicit. He also has a penchant for the iconic sounds of Prague rock, particularly enjoying bands like Pink Floyd and Jethro Tull.

Growing up in the early nineties, Mark's musical journey included a mix of genres, experiencing the rise of bands like Korn, Linkin Park, and Papa Roach, although he sometimes found these transitions a bit unsettling.

Through his diverse tastes, Mark continues to explore the realms of alternative music and digital escapism.

Mark's Bands

FVKVSHIMA:

https://fvkvshima.com/

https://www.instagram.com/fvkvshima_band/

Planet of the Dead:

https://www.facebook.com/planetofthedeadband/

Nick Granville:

Acclaimed Guitarist, Educator & Session Musician

Nick Granville is a versatile guitarist, teacher, and session musician who has collaborated with top artists like Dave Weckl, Tony Lindsay (Santana’s singer), Dave Matthews, Chris de Burgh, Ronan Keating, and Delta Goodrem. He has also worked with jazz legends Mike Stern, Joey DeFrancesco, Eric Marienthal, Kurt Elling, and Steve Smith, and played with the band on New Zealand’s "Dancing with the Stars."As a bandleader, Nick performs regularly in Wellington and at major jazz festivals across New Zealand and internationally.

He is a founding member of the Wellington Jazz Orchestra (Rodger Fox Big Band) and has released six albums as a leader. His extensive recording credits include film scores, television, and radio productions, with sessions in top studios like Capitol Studios in Los Angeles.

An experienced educator, Nick currently teaches at the New Zealand School of Music and has also taught at Goodtime Music Academy, Christchurch Jazz School (CPIT), Otago University, and Auckland University, as well as at jazz festivals throughout New Zealand.Nick holds a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance (First-Class Honours) from the University of Auckland and continues to push boundaries in jazz and contemporary music.In this episode, we sit down with Nick Granville, a versatile guitarist known for his mastery of rock, jazz, and blues.

Nick Granville shares his journey from a young music enthusiast to a full-time professional musician in New Zealand, a country with a smaller but passionate music scene. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of his career, the importance of adaptability in the industry, and how social media and AI are shaping the future of music. Whether you're an aspiring musician or a music lover, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the evolving world of professional guitarists.

Join us on Kultura Incident as we uncover what drives Nick Granville’s passion for music and his approach to staying relevant in a changing

industry.www.nickgranville.comhttps://www.facebook.com/nickgranvillemusic/

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Hades X's Kultura Incident:

📼 YouTube: https://bit.ly/KulturaIncident

🎙 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3K3BxqF

🎙 Apple: https://apple.co/42zpwAH

Let’s SOCIALise, don't forget to like and follow:

📱 FB: @iamhadesx

📷 IG: @iamhadesx

✖️ X: @iamhadesx

In this episode of Kultura Incident , we chat with Nick, a cool musician and art teacher. He's got an amazing story to share!

Nick went through some tough times as a kid, including a head injury and having ADHD, but he found his way through art and music.

He talked about how he went from feeling confused and different in school to becoming one of the key players of a band called Electric Tapestry.

Nick's story shows us how important it is to be yourself and how creativity can help you overcome challenges.

Tune in to hear more about Nick's journey and how he uses his love for art and music to make a difference.

Electric Tapestryhttps://www.facebook.com/electric.tapestry.music/

You can also buy some merch here:🛍 https://eesel.digitees.co.nz

Let’s SOCIALise, don't forget to like and follow:

📱 FB: @iamhadesx

📷 IG: @iamhadesx

✖️ X: @iamhadesxIn case we haven’t met before, great to see you here and thanks for your time!

*Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links. I get a portion of the sale to help me support the channel. Thanks for supporting this channel.#chronicles #hadesx #hadesxchronicles

Meredith, a regional coordinator for Parent to Parent in Wellington. Meredith shares her personal journey as a mother of two boys, both diagnosed with autism, and her professional role in providing support and resources to families with disabled children.

She emphasizes the importance of community support, workshops, and specialized information services for navigating the complexities of raising neurodivergent children.

The episode also touches on Meredith's own strategies for self-care and managing the emotional demands of her life and work.

She started a podcast called "That's Good to Know".

Every second Saturday, 1pm.

https://accessradio.org.nz/shows-podcasts/thats-good-to-know/

Recaps the most compelling moments from the past year. From Episode 71’s deep dive into heavy metal with Steve Francis of Bullet Belt, to Episode 77’s touching tale of Graeme’s journey parenting four autistic kids, this episode offers insights, emotional stories, and professional growth. Iain's journey of Pathological Demand Avoidance for his son. We also revisit Ben Mulchin's transition from scientist to music venue manager and Dr. Kahal Doyle’s thoughts on ethical AI. Ep 71: Steve Francis (Bullet Belt) on heavy metal culture and professionalism in music. Ep 72: Iain Gervan on parenting an autistic son with a PDA profile, strategies, and online support. Ep 73: Ben Mulchin of Valhalla on managing a top music venue and the metal community's resilience. Ep 74: Dr. Cathal Doyle on ethical AI use in education and workplaces. Ep 77: Graeme on parenting four autistic kids and using AAC tools for communication. Hades X's Kultura: 📼 YouTube: https://bit.ly/KulturaIncident 🎙 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3K3BxqF 🎙 Apple: https://apple.co/42zpwAH
You can support my work here: Takiwātanga merch https://eesel.digitees.co.nz/designs Let’s SOCIALise, don't forget to like and follow: 📱 FB: @iamhadesx 📷 IG: @iamhadesx ✖️ X: @iamhadesx In case we haven’t met before, Hi, I am Hades X, great to see you here! I publish content here about every day great people doing great things. *Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links. I get a portion of the sale to help me support the channel. Thanks for supporting this channel. #Kultura #PodcastRecap #HeavyMetal #Parenting #AI #PunkCulture Kultura Incident

This is a clip from The Takiwātanga (Autism) Podcast Today we had a conversation with Graham, a devoted father raising four autistic children alongside his wife, who also recently discovered her own place on the spectrum. Join Graeme as he talked about the complexities of parenting children with diverse needs, discussing everything from early autism detection and intervention strategies to the critical role of adaptive communication tools like AAC.

Watch the full episode here https://youtu.be/rBMn4ZUhWl8

Side note 01 Catch up - KI EP 76 Adapting to Change: Embracing Growth and Consistency in Content Creation

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, content creators face myriad challenges. From adjusting to unforeseen life events to meeting the demands of constantly evolving algorithms, the journey of content creation is often complex and fraught with difficulties. This blog post delves into the key themes surrounding adaptability, the importance of consistency, and the exploration of diverse content formats in the realm of digital media.

Life is unpredictable and often brings unexpected hurdles that can disrupt established plans. Content creators must navigate personal challenges, such as health issues or family obligations, which can affect their output. Recognizing that setbacks are part of the journey allows creators to embrace flexibility and adjust their content strategies accordingly. This adaptive approach can lead to greater resilience, ultimately fostering creativity and innovation in their work. By acknowledging life's realities while striving for improvement, creators can enhance their authenticity and relatability to their audience.

In the digital space, consistency is crucial for building an audience and maintaining engagement. Platforms utilize complex algorithms that favor regular postings; thus, creators must find efficient ways to produce and disseminate content. By establishing a routine, whether through scheduled uploads or batch content production, creators can ensure they are consistently present in their viewers' feeds. This practice not only helps in enhancing visibility but also fosters trust and loyalty among the audience. Understanding the balance between creative output and algorithmic demands is essential for success in content creation.

The Journey of Adaptation: Facing Life's ChallengesConsistency is Key: The Algorithm and Engagement

The "Up the Punks" initiative serves as a vibrant community project that captures the essence of Wellington's punk scene. It collects and preserves the stories, memories, and visuals from those who have been a part of this dynamic subculture. By building a massive online scrapbook, the project not only commemorates the punk movement but also fosters a sense of belonging and shared identity among punks past and present. The video emphasizes the importance of community in the punk genre, where unity and collaboration often create an environment for artistic expression and rebellion. 0:00 - Discovering Up the Punks 2024 0:29 - Exploring Wellington's Punk History 0:55 - Community and Venue Creation 1:26 - Bands That Shaped the Scene 1:43 - Metal vs Punk Fan Discussion #Upthepunks #upthewahs #punkrock

Dr. Cathal Doyle is a Seniour Lecturer in Information Systems at the School of Information Management, Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand He’s exploring how tools and technologies like generative AI are becoming more than just tools and are starting to work alongside people.

He’s also interested in how AI can be used not only to achieve practical goals but also to support more human-centered ideas and values.

In this episode, Dr. Cathal has shared his insights on exploring the intersection of technology, human interaction, and ethical concerns as AI becomes increasingly imbedded into our daily lives and professional landscapes.

ResearchGate:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Cathal-Doyle

Victoria University of Wellington:

https://people.wgtn.ac.nz/cathal.doyle

You can watch the full video interview here:

https://youtu.be/unEkZut8TbM