We are thrilled to welcome Jason Gunn to the AIA Vitality team! As one of New Zealand’s most-loved and enduring broadcasters and storytellers, Jason has a genuine connection to the AIA Vitality programme – from his authentic content focused on connection & communication, to his recent involvement with AIA Vitality’s ‘The Upside’ mental wellbeing series, to his continued personal health and wellbeing journey.
We asked Jason to tell us a bit more about what is most important in his life, what inspires him, and why he wanted to join the AIA Vitality team…
So Jase, you’ve had an exceptional career as one of NZ’s most recognisable media personalities having lit up screens, stages and radio for over 35 years. Why do you think Kiwis have connected so strongly with you?
I was so incredibly fortunate to get a job in television when I was 18. Television was a lot different then. Just 2 channels and usually just one screen in every house. And...as a family we watched television together – what a crazy idea! It was easier to really connect with people back then because there just weren’t so many screens and platforms pulling us in so many directions. I also really focused on looking into that camera and always just talking to one person. I wanted everyone to feel like I was only talking to them. Plus I got to work with some incredible broadcasters who taught me so much. I was so very lucky.
Looking back on all your success and achievements, who or what was your biggest inspiration?
Definitely my family. They gave me so much support. They always let me be me - which couldn’t have been easy! And my beautiful Mum. She was the best storyteller. She could light up any room and make anyone, anywhere feel like they were never alone - she brought JOY to so many people. I wanted to be like her.
And my brother Andy. SO smart, SO kind. SO reassuring. He has always been there for me. I watched him fly through school and University and become a lawyer. And then give that up to become a writer - he followed his passion. He has written for tv, movies, print...and we have written 3 children’s books together.
What achievement are you most proud of?
My children will always be my greatest achievement and what I am most proud of. They are my best friends. They all make an incredibly positive difference to this world. Career wise - my time as a children’s tv presenter - visiting beautiful children in hospital and creating moments with them - nothing could ever top that.
You shared with us in The Upside TV and podcast series last year that you had a health scare in 2017 that resulted in some big changes in your life. Can you tell us a bit more about that?
I managed to get my life way out of balance. I was in a job that was causing me a lot of stress - there was a lot of energy going out but not much coming in. So I left that job. I started my own business ‘Easily Said’ which helps people and businesses speak and present with confidence and I JUST LOVE IT! I’m also a lot more present - in the moment. I try to worry less about what has been and what might be and just be grateful for what I have, where I am and who I’m with TODAY.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My Mum used to say to me...”It will be alright in the end. If it’s not alright...it’s not the end.”
She has an amazing way of keeping positive through tough times. Losing her 2 years ago was my toughest time. But I still talk to her every day.
You’ve said that there’s no shortage of people communicating in this world, but there’s a shortage of people connecting. Why is connection so important?
There’s so much NOISE out there. People talking AT other people. But the magic happens when we talk WITH other people. When we take the time to really CONNECT with others. That’s when people feel heard and feel valued. I recently heard that loneliness is one of the fastest growing killers in the world. Loneliness! And I think we can do something about this! We need to start spending time with people...connecting with people. It’s great for them and great for us - it’s a win-win!!
Tell us about the Jason that is away from the spotlight, what do you do in your spare time?
We live on a 10 acre life-style block - I often refer to it as a 10 acre life-sentence block! There’s always something that needs doing or fixing. But really I love it - it’s a million miles away from being on stage or being on camera - it fills my tanks. I’m trying to get back into golf - it’s testing me though. I’m always losing my golf ball and my patience. But I used to play with my Mum and my Dad so I feel very connected to them both when I’m walking around out there. Most of all...I’m finding time to be with my kids - in person or online (2 of our daughters live overseas which I’m not happy about!)
Why did you want to become an AIA Vitality ambassador and help Kiwis live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives?
After working together on The Upside I quickly discovered we have so much in common. I love what AIA Vitality provides for New Zealanders - inspiring them to be the best versions of themselves - mentally and physically. I think together we can do some very special things and make a real difference. They’re my kind of people!
What small steps are you taking to Move Well, Think Well, Plan Well and Eat Well?
I’m trying to do a few little things often. I’ve found that when I try to make BIG changes...I last a good week and then things fall away. So currently I’m back into my meditation for 10 minutes every morning - sometimes it’s not even meditating it’s just me sitting quietly - doing something for me - before I do anything for others. I’m going for short jogs whenever I can - around our block or when I travel (which is a lot with work) I get out and see the area I’m in. But please...when I say jog...it’s more a quick walk!!
How do you stay motivated to maintain balance in your life?
I think about my 4 beautiful children and my 2 grandchildren. I want to be here with them...for them. I want them to remember me as someone who was mentally and physically well and always able to be a little crazy with them.
