Brodie
“STOP caring about what other people think of you. Now, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t learn and be guided by others - but those others should be people you can trust, people you respect, and people who care about you.”
Brodie is an absolute powerhouse. When she’s not running her own media company, she’s running marathons. She is a strong leader who sets her mind to something and does it. Brodie isn’t afraid to speak her mind, which is evident in the podcast she co-hosts, The Girls Uninterrupted. On the podcast, she actively tears down stigmas surrounding sexuality and womanhood, while working to engage the public on incredibly important social issues. She is a passionate storyteller who leads with empathy, honesty and humour. Even if you don’t know her, she’s someone you look up to. Meet Brodie. This is her story.
Brodie celebrating life, with a wine (her happy place)
P: Please introduce yourself!
B: My name is Brodie Kane, I am a 34-year old woman who grew up in a beautiful little place called Waikuku Beach, just north of Christchurch. My parents are Jo and Murray, and my older brother is AJ. I am a broadcaster who has worked in television and radio here in New Zealand for the past 13 years. Last year, I set up my own business, Brodie Kane Media. At the moment, I'm navigating through how this all works! But I absolutely love telling people’s stories, creating entertaining video content, hosting podcasts, making people laugh and feel good.
P: Describe or define yourself in your own words.
B: A million miles an hour. Loves a laugh. Supportive. Strong. Loves to go running!
P: What is your favourite thing about yourself?
B: I think my love and admiration for my family and friends. But also my open mind, care and compassion for others.
P: Tell us a story. Have you had an experience that has defined you or made you stronger?
B: I was running the Queenstown Marathon last year (2020). It was an event I'd trained for and was well prepared. But, on the day, the plan went completely out the window - and not even halfway through the thing I was hurting, I'd hit the wall and I didn't know how I'd continue. I tell you what it was an incredibly awful mindset to try and navigate out of.
The hurt and agony of what my body was going through, coupled with the anger and disappointment in myself for letting it get to this so early in the race. Somehow, I had to turn all that around, I had to find a way to tell myself that all I needed to do was finish - that it didn't matter how long it took, it didn't matter how it looked - I just had to finish the damn thing. It wasn't easy, but by about 27km in I had managed to pick myself up and carry myself (albeit slowly and painfully) to the finish line.
Sure, I hadn't done it in the time I'd hoped to and it hadn't gone remotely to plan, but somehow I managed to get there. I won't lie, I was relieved to finish, but there were pangs of disappointment for a few days after. But then, I realised what I'd achieved, and how I had pushed myself through such a challenge both mentally AND physically. It was such an important lesson to carry into all realms of life.
It taught me that sometimes things in life won't always go the way you plan or hope, but it's how you get yourself through that counts.
P: What is one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
B: STOP caring about what other people think of you. Now, that doesn't mean that you shouldn't learn and be guided by others - but those others should be people you can trust, people you respect, and people who care about you. The rest? Take no bloody notice.
P: What does being a woman mean to you?
B: Being proud of who you are. Not letting anyone else define you. Standing up and fighting for others. Embracing your strengths. Being part of a movement/community that constantly challenges and strives for a better world for everyone.
P: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say to her if she were here now?
B: My mum, Jo. She is so strong, and has taught me so much in life, and continues to do so every single day. I would say: "Mum, you're an absolute legend. Thank you for everything you do for me and for others. Thank you for being there to pull me through my dark days. Thank you for your unwavering support. Thank you for loving me and thank you for showing me that you should never shy away from your strengths - no matter what knocks you down along the way."