MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS | MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING
Matt Chisholm
Matt Chisholm is a respected New Zealand journalist and mental health advocate, known for his sharp storytelling and trademark authenticity.
Over a decade in the high-pressure world of broadcast journalism — including roles on Sunday, Fair Go, and as the original host of Celebrity Treasure Island — Matt became a familiar face in Kiwi homes.
But behind the polished delivery was a man struggling with burnout, self-doubt, and alcohol dependency.
In a raw, recent conversation with fellow journo Paddy Gower, Matt opened up about the toll that constant deadlines, public scrutiny, and the “tough bloke” Kiwi mentality took on his wellbeing. His decision to step away from drinking wasn’t just about quitting — it was about reclaiming his life and reconnecting with what really matters.
Today, Matt uses his journalistic skills to tell a different story: one of honesty, vulnerability, and hope. Travelling the country as a speaker, he shares his journey to help others recognise burnout, challenge stigma around mental health, and start difficult but vital conversations — especially among men.
Through his work, Matt embodies a new kind of journalism: not just asking the hard questions of others, but of himself. He champions the idea that strength lies in being open, seeking help, and supporting each other — messages that resonate deeply across Aotearoa.
