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This week we sit down with Auckland swimmer Dean Madsen — a man who knows what it means to push limits in and out of the water. Dean’s journey started in the world of triathlon and Ironman, where endurance and grit became part of his DNA. These days his focus is on two of New Zealand’s greatest open water challenges: the 40km Lake Taupō crossing and the legendary Cook Strait swim.

But Dean’s story goes much deeper than training and KM's. Over the past year he’s faced a string of health battles — first a minor heart issue, then the life-changing diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Instead of stepping back, Dean has stepped up, embracing swimming as both therapy and adventure. His outlook is humble, determined, and refreshingly laid-back.

At a young 62 years old, Dean balances the seriousness of his mission with his love of the ocean, the surf, and just being a cool, grounded guy. In this conversation, we talk resilience, mindset, chasing audacious goals, and what it means to keep moving forward no matter what life throws your way.

If you would like to support his cause, please donate...

https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/swimming-for-parkinsons-my-journey-my-mission

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This chat is about a remarkable Kiwi story of grit, brains, and a touch of madness. We welcome back Brian Gray – a Kiwi Master Swimmer with a heart as big as the Waikato River itself. Brian recently swam an astonishing 150 km's down that very river, the one he grew up beside, in honour of his dad.

It took him 24 hours straight – no sleep, battling the tide, and pushing through every obstacle nature and his own body could throw at him. From the sheer physical toll to the mental chess of staying focused, and yes, even the not-so-glamorous reality of figuring out how to go number two while still swimming – Brian holds nothing back.

This is a story of endurance, memory, and love for family, told through one of the wildest swims you’ll ever hear about. So, grab your goggles and settle in....

Brian on Instagram: @bmeister_gray

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Today on the show we’re joined by an incredible duo – Stephen Moore and his wonderful wife Jo. Stephen, at 62, is still one of the fastest men in the water, but his story goes far beyond speed. He grew up learning to swim in the very same pool as Jo back in England – a connection that has lasted a lifetime. From ice swimming at the world championships, to weekend training sessions with the legendary Salty Dogs, Stephen has lived and breathed the sport. We dive into his nerves before a race, the mindset it takes to be mentally prepared, and the unique partnership he shares with Jo – a relationship built on understanding, support, and teamwork in and out of the water. Together, they show us that swimming is about much more than racing – it’s about resilience, community, and love. It is also evident that Jo wears the pants....