Blog

Welcome to Essential Talent's blog - your home for news on our speakers as well as insights and trends in public speaking & event entertainment.

Wed 07 Aug

We are thrilled to congratulate our very own Finn Butcher on his incredible achievement of winning the gold medal in the first-ever Olympic men’s kayak cross final!

Sun 04 Aug

In her final Olympic appearance, Emma Twigg has once again made New Zealand proud, claiming a silver medal in the women's single sculls at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Thu 01 Aug

Michaela Blyde and Tyla King have done it again! The New Zealand rugby sevens stars just made history with back-to-back Olympic golds.

Wed 17 Jul

The win not only ended Queensland's dominance but also showcased the Blues' ability to perform under extreme pressure, a testament to the mental fortitude instilled by Gilbert Enoka.

Wed 26 Jun

After more than two decades of waking up Kiwis with her infectious energy and vibrant personality, Jay-Jay Feeney has announced her departure from radio

Fri 14 Jun

A short time ago he predicted who will win tonights match between The Brumbies and the Blues, and what it will take to win

Wed 05 Jun

"singing with him in front of 1000 people and a backing band was such an awesome moment I’ll never forget"

Wed 05 Jun

The NSW Blues have made a groundbreaking move by adding Gilbert Enoka to their team for the 2024 State of Origin series.

Wed 29 May

Daniel didn’t shy away from the backlash. He took full responsibility for the mistake, publicly apologising and owning up to the error

Thu 16 May

And if you’re interested in learning more about how AI can help in your role, there are plenty of resources out there. Like Essential Talent, for example.

Wed 15 May

Looking ahead, the future of live audiences in entertainment looks bright

Wed 13 Dec

With rising living costs, the holiday season poses challenges for many, especially families under the care of Kidz First, Middlemore's children's hospital. Letele, a respected community advocate, is provided extra assistance

Thu 07 Dec

A recent report from ASB outlines a concerning scenario for Kiwi households, with an expected average weekly cost increase of $115 in 2023, followed by a $70 increase in 2024

Wed 06 Dec

His impact is widely recognised, with players like Beauden Barrett crediting Enoka's wisdom in crucial matches

Tue 05 Dec

The economic landscape varies across different sectors. New Zealand’s primary industries, crucial to its economy, show divergent trend

Tue 05 Dec

A skilled MC, an essential talent for any event, can weave these elements together seamlessly, ensuring that your Awards Night is not just an event, but a story that unfolds throughout the evening.

Tue 05 Dec

Beauden Barrett, a key figure in New Zealand rugby and a significant player for the All Blacks, has recently re-committed to New Zealand Rugby and the Blues. This decision, effective until the end of 2027

Mon 04 Dec

These tools can streamline various aspects of event management, from planning to content creation

Mon 04 Dec

....there's a surge in investor activity, something we haven't seen this strong since the beginning of 2021

Mon 27 Nov

Developing an AI strategy, ensuring proper data governance, and reskilling workers are key steps towards successful AI integration.

Tue 21 Nov

"What are the top keynote speaker trends for 2024?"

Mon 06 Nov

The well-being of your team is paramount. Our speakers promote resilience and foster a supportive environment, ensuring your organisation thrives.

Sat 29 Jul

Find ways to be mindful and aware of your surroundings, such as observing nature during a walk or participating in mindfulness exercises.

Sat 29 Jul

The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand will be hosting Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) from 18th to 24th September, continuing a tradition that began back in 1993.

Thu 27 Jul

Letele's story is one of second chances, of relentless resilience and the willingness to transform. Essential Talent, a group of motivational speakers, could look to his journey as an embodiment of their message.

Thu 27 Jul

The tradition of celebrating International Women's Day began more than a century ago, in 1910, with the aim of promoting equal rights for all genders, a goal we continue to strive for today.

Sat 15 Jul

Hayley Holt's talent isn't confined to her athletic abilities or her dancing prowess. It transcends into her eloquence, her compelling ability to narrate her experiences, and her power to stir emotions.

Tue 11 Jul

Hayley Holt is a testament to the power of essential talent, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

Sat 08 Jul

Diverse, dynamic and dedicated. These three words encapsulate Hayley Holt, whose intriguing life journey from a professional athlete to a motivational speaker is nothing short of remarkable.

Thu 06 Jul

He fostered a culture of respect and accountability within the All Blacks that is still evident today.

Wed 05 Jul

Motu's journey teaches us valuable lessons that can be applied to the world of business. Her relentless pursuit of greatness and unwavering passion for boxing offer insights that can inspire us in our professional endeavours.

Wed 05 Jul

His tenure as the All Blacks' mental skills coach has given him a deep understanding of the psychological aspects of high-performance sports.

Wed 05 Jul

His story is one of resilience, adaptation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence

Wed 05 Jul

Essential Talent proudly presents Mea Motu as an exclusive keynote speaker. Her captivating presence and empowering message of resilience have the power to ignite change and motivate teams to surpass their limits

Wed 05 Jul

Newshub reports that Tana Umaga, the current Blues assistant coach, is being considered for a role in the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2023.

Tue 04 Jul

New Zealand's very own sports star, Shane van Gisbergen, has rocked the NASCAR scene with an awe-inspiring debut win, capturing the attention of global racing enthusiasts,

Mon 03 Jul

While his insights are forged in the crucible of high-stakes rugby, they resonate across different walks of life

Mon 03 Jul

Essential Talent's motivational speaker, Hayley Holt, is raising a toast to her son's first birthday today. She has chosen social media as her stage to share adorable images of her little bloke enjoying his birthday cake.

Mon 03 Jul

Resilience is a buzzword in both sports and corporate environments, but few understand it as deeply as Gilbert Enoka.

Mon 03 Jul

A world-class coach, he led the All Blacks to their first Rugby World Cup win in 24 years, transforming New Zealand rugby in the process.

Mon 03 Jul

Today, as one of the top rugby speakers, Sir Graham imparts his wisdom and experiences, inspiring audiences with his tales of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness

Mon 03 Jul

Gilbert Enoka is more than a rugby speaker; he is a motivator, a mentor, and a master at navigating the complexities of the human mind

Mon 03 Jul

Specialists in Māori public health are urgently sounding the alarm about the escalating issue of alcohol-related harm in Aotearoa.

Mon 03 Jul

Hayley Holt's messages captivate the audience because they are built on a strong foundation of authenticity and real-life experiences.

Mon 03 Jul

Henry’s ability to communicate effectively, to inspire, and to build lasting relationships was honed during his teaching years.

Mon 03 Jul

He knew that to get the best out of his players, they had to buy into a shared vision. This belief in collective responsibility played a critical role in the All Blacks’ historic 2011 Rugby World Cup win.

Sun 02 Jul

When it comes to rugby speakers, Gilbert Enoka stands out from the crowd. His unique expertise in mental conditioning, leadership, and team dynamics has helped shape one of the most successful teams in rugby history: the All Blacks.

Sun 02 Jul

Beyond his work on the rugby pitch, Sir Graham Henry continues to inspire as one of the most sought-after motivational speakers

Sun 02 Jul

Tui is a beacon of resilience and determination, inspiring a generation of girls to charge headfirst into their dreams, no matter how distant or unattainable they may seem.

Sun 02 Jul

Leigh's approach to turning his hilarious ideas into reality can only be described as a "hit the ground running" extravaganza"

Sun 02 Jul

Nigel Latta, the renowned motivational speaker and clinical psychologist associated with Essential Talent, is all set to make a triumphant return to our screens with an exciting and eye-opening new series.

Sat 01 Jul

In rugby circles, Gilbert Enoka is renowned as a mastermind behind some of New Zealand's most significant sporting triumphs

Sat 01 Jul

If AI is causing a storm rather than smoothing the waters, then it's time for a regroup.

Sat 01 Jul

What we really need is a workplace where everyone can express themselves freely without walking on eggshells.

Sat 01 Jul

The Harvard Business Review found that positive social connections at work lead to better health, less depression, faster learning, sharper thinking, and better job performance.

Thu 29 Jun

"It means that the issue, when we're considering vaping-related policy, is more complex than simply saying that it works to stop smokers. It could also be contributing to an uptake in smoking as well."

Thu 29 Jun

Choosing a motivational speaker from Essential Talent means opting for a high-quality, impactful, and memorable event

Wed 28 Jun

As motivational speakers around the world would echo, resilience isn't merely about weathering the storm, but learning to dance in the rain.

Wed 28 Jun

A while ago, the thrilling final regular season round of Super Rugby Pacific witnessed a fiery clash between these two stalwarts, each donning their respective Hurricanes and Crusaders jerseys.

Wed 28 Jun

"There isn't substantial evidence to back up that claim," he clarified. "What we're saying now is there are no heart health benefits from drinking alcohol. On the contrary, it brings additional risks."

Wed 28 Jun

Essential Talent's motivational speakers are well-equipped to provide your team with valuable life skills such as stress management, emotional intelligence, and effective communication.

Wed 28 Jun

Essential Talent's range of motivational speakers includes industry leaders and inspiring figures, each with a unique message that provides valuable takeaways for your audience.

Wed 28 Jun

They represent the resilience, dedication and teamwork that are key to their sport, delivering inspiring talks through rugbyspeakers.

Sun 25 Jun

The path to success is often paved with challenges and obstacles. However, the psychology of success reveals that our mindset plays a crucial role in determining our ability to achieve our goals

Fri 23 Jun

In this blog, we will explore practical techniques for managing stress, enhancing resilience, and promoting a healthier and more fulfilling life, as shared by Essential Talent's motivational speakers.

Thu 22 Jun

Unleashing creativity and igniting innovative thinking in the workplace is essential for driving growth and success.

Wed 21 Jun

Technological advancements and automation are revolutionising industries and reshaping job roles. Essential Talent's motivational speakers discuss the current and future impact of technology on the workforce.

Wed 21 Jun

In this blog, we will explore the art of time management and delve into the valuable insights provided by Essential Talent's motivational speakers.

Wed 21 Jun

Beyond the immediate rush of achieving their dreams, these athletes now set their sights on the formidable prospect of the upcoming Rugby World Cup.

Tue 20 Jun

In the spirit of camaraderie and shared love for the sport, a fresh initiative titled 'Rugby for Life' is sweeping across Northland rugby clubs

Tue 20 Jun

David has made the considered decision not to stand as a candidate in this year's general elections. He chooses to continue with his powerful community-based activism through BBM, where he frequently voices his stance on challenging issues.

Mon 19 Jun

Empathy is another key aspect of emotional intelligence. The ability to understand and share the feelings of others creates a supportive and inclusive environment where trust and connection flourish.

Sun 18 Jun

Organisational changes can be daunting, whether it's a restructuring, a merger, or the implementation of new technologies. Essential Talent's motivational speakers provide guidance on navigating these changes with confidence.

Sun 18 Jun

This engaging style makes complex psychology feel accessible and approachable, helping to demystify the field for his audience.

Sun 18 Jun

Effective leaders consistently demonstrate integrity in their decision-making, actions, and interactions, earning the respect and loyalty of those they lead.

Sun 18 Jun

Mastering the art of public speaking has a profound impact on personal and professional success. It opens doors to new opportunities, enhances career prospects, increases influence, and boosts self-confidence.

Sat 17 Jun

One key aspect of building a resilient mindset is embracing change and uncertainty. Life is constantly changing, and resilience allows individuals to adapt and thrive amidst these changes.

Sat 17 Jun

In his words, "a successful team is a group of many hands but of one mind".

Sat 17 Jun

A swift 15-0 lead within the opening minutes of the game underlined the Crusaders' determination, and their momentum was unstoppable from there.

Fri 16 Jun

The impact of motivational speakers from Essential Talent is profound and transformative. They possess the remarkable ability to inspire individuals to conquer challenges, achieve their goals, and make positive changes in their lives

Fri 16 Jun

id-Year Magic: The Best Speakers to Book for a Mid-Year Boost

Thu 15 Jun

But don't let his playful demeanour fool you. Beneath the humour lies a man of deep resilience and dedication, whose stories of leadership and team dynamics offer profound lessons

Thu 15 Jun

Feeling stuck is a common response to tough times. The vibrant energy and compelling stories of motivational speakers serve as a catalyst, spurring us to take action and regain control of our circumstances.

Thu 15 Jun

This unassuming attitude speaks volumes about Hansen's leadership style – he's a firm believer in the saying, "Leadership is not about being in charge, it's about taking care of those in your charge."

Thu 15 Jun

Personal development is a lifelong process of self-improvement, self-awareness, and skill enhancement. It goes beyond external achievements and focuses on nurturing our inner selves to become the best version of ourselves.

Wed 14 Jun

As the duck waddled onto the field, without missing a beat, Sir Henry decided to include the duck in the training drill, turning an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience.

Wed 14 Jun

His approach to life and leadership is a testament to his unique outlook, something that resonates deeply in his motivational speeches.

Wed 14 Jun

This All Blacks legend has made his mark not just on the rugby field, but also in the hearts of many, making him one of the most revered rugby speakers at Essential Talent.

Wed 14 Jun

Who better to wake them up than a motivational keynote speaker? They're the morning espresso shot we all need.Their high-energy messages get the crowd excited and ready to seize the day.

Tue 31 Jan

Motivational speakers are great for boosting morale and inspiration. With their words of wisdom, they have the power to tap into your attendees' emotions and help them see their own potential.

Thu 26 Jan

A motivational speaker can provide a fresh perspective on problems and challenges. Sometimes, we can get really bogged down with daily tasks and so forth. A motivational speaker helps us think big picture.

Sat 25 Apr

Exclusive (unedited) interview with economist Cameron Bagrie

Wed 22 Apr

Tips to trick your brain to reduce stress

Thu 16 Apr

David meets Joseph Parker

Wed 15 Apr

Willpower will get you nowhere

Sat 07 Mar

Latest update from Ministry of Health and Events

Thu 20 Feb

NZ Economy update February 2020

Tue 13 Nov

What Successful People Have in Common. While all of these people are different, I have noticed some common traits.

Fri 02 Mar

David Letele (aka Brown Buttabean) is your man. He’s the man behind the movement that is Buttabean Motivation and a finalist for Kiwibank’s Local.

Fri 13 Oct

New Zealand Events Awards 2017 by Essential Talent. Congrats to all finalists and winners at the New Zealand Events Awards 2017.