As one of New Zealand’s most recognisable media personalities, Jason Gunn has spent decades working across television, radio and live events. Known for his energy and infectious smile, Jason has experienced both the highs and lows of living life in the public eye.
In this article, Jason shares how he approaches life’s challenges, stays grounded through change, and supports his wellbeing with small, consistent actions, all as part of his ongoing journey as an AIA Vitality Ambassador.
A career without a map
If life’s a ride, then I definitely didn’t look at the map before I bought the ticket. I mean that in the best possible way, I’ve been lucky.
I got to be part of television when it was big, and I mean big crews, big sets and big heart. My early days were full of people, energy and collaboration. Shows like Dancing with the Stars were massive, and I’m so grateful I got to make TV in those glory days.
These days, a lot of the time it feels like it’s just you and a phone. While that’s a more efficient way of creating content these days, it can also feel a bit lonely. I’ve had to adapt. In my 50s, I started my own communications business. I’ve built a decent social following, learned new things and leaned on the skills I’ve always had.
It’s been a ride with a few unexpected turns, but I’ve learned to hang on and enjoy the view.
Finding calm in the chaos
When life gets bumpy (and it always does), I try to check in with myself. I’m still a bit of a work in progress on that front. If I’m honest, I’m much better at managing chaos in my work life than I am in my personal life.
Since my heart attack, I’ve become more aware of the warning signs. That tightness in my chest or sense of panic tells me I need to slow down. I used to ignore it. Now I listen.
I’ll book a massage, do a short meditation, or talk to my wife Janine. She’s incredible at helping me break things down. She’ll ask, “What can you leave today?” or “Who can you call to push something out?” That simple shift helps so much.
I’m still learning to be proactive rather than reactive. That’s part of my journey with AIA. We talk a lot about preventative care, and it’s something I’m working on every day.
Resetting when you’re running on empty
When I feel drained, I try to reconnect with nature. We live on 10 acres, so I’ll take my shoes off, walk the land and breathe a little deeper. Sometimes I need a full switch off, maybe a bit of PlayStation or a TV show.
The most important thing for me is sleep. If I haven’t had enough of it, everything else starts to wobble. My emotions, my gut and my patience. These days, I’ve learned to catch myself and say, “Right, bath, no screens and an early night.” That’s the reset I need. And I try not to wait until I’m already burnt out to do it.
Showing up for family
One thing I’ve always been proud of is being present for my family. No matter where they are - LA, Australia, Christchurch - if something goes wrong, they know I’d be there in a heartbeat. We don’t do radio silence. If I haven’t heard from one of them in a few days, I’ll check in.
A quick “Love you. Proud of you” message might seem small, but it reminds them they’re not alone. I want them to always feel that I’m in their corner.
Lessons I try to pass on
One of the biggest things I try to teach my kids is this. When life feels overwhelming, ask yourself what you’re doing to stop it from getting that way. And more often than not, the answer is nothing.
That’s okay. It’s a starting point. You don’t need to overhaul everything, just start with one thing. A better breakfast. A short walk. Ten minutes of meditation. Energy goes out every day, so we have to make sure something comes back in too.
Why health is everything
It’s a given that we’re all going to face hard times. But, if your mind and body are in good shape, you’re better prepared when those moments come.
These days, I focus on slowing down and creating more moments. Bringing Janine a coffee. Hugging my granddaughter. Picking a flower on the way to work. Saying something kind to a stranger. That stuff fills my cup.
And I’ve always told my kids, let’s try to be the best part of someone’s day. You never know what a kind word might mean to someone who really needs it.
Riding it out
Some days feel like a flight stuck in a cloud. You take off, it’s grey and bumpy, and you wonder when you’ll break through. But you always pop out into the light, eventually.
My mum used to say, “It’ll all be all right in the end. And if it’s not all right, it’s not the end.” I think that’s true.
So hang in there. Take care of yourself. And don’t forget to enjoy the ride along the way.
