Banana Lab

Ep.14 — Ashley Bautista: Growing Up Filipino in New Zealand

Ashley joins us on Banana Lab to share her experience growing up Filipino in New Zealand and finding her own identity between cultures. Born in the Philippines and raised in Hamilton, Ashley reflects on moving to Auckland for university, transitioning into full-time work, and navigating the pressures of hustle culture and adulthood. We talk about reconnecting with her Filipino roots, the challenges of balancing cultures, and how her family’s sacrifices and work ethic have shaped the way she approaches life today. The conversation also touches on community, faith, food, favourite spots around Auckland, and the importance of slowing down, resting well, and learning to embrace who you are. Warm, thoughtful, and full of relatable young adult moments, this episode is a conversation about identity, growth, belonging, and what it means to feel at home in yourself. Topics include: • Growing up Filipino in New Zealand  • Hamilton vs Auckland life  • Transitioning from university into the workforce  • Hustle culture and work-life balance  • Faith, family and community  • Reconnecting with Filipino identity  • Food, culture and finding belonging

Ep.13 — Inna Goodwin: Identity, Travel and Building a Life in New Zealand

In this episode of Banana Lab, we’re joined by Inna Goodwin. Inna shares her journey from the Philippines to New Zealand, reflecting on immigration challenges, identity, career pivots and finding belonging. We also discuss life as a Filipino woman in construction, queer identity, travel, and the realities of building a life in a new country. A warm and honest conversation about resilience, community and home.

Ep.12 — Alwin Tan: Running, Creativity and Life Between Malaysia & NZ

In this episode of Banana Lab, we are joined by Alwyn Tan — a photographer, videographer, drone pilot, and marathon runner based in Auckland. Alwyn reflects on growing up between Malaysia and New Zealand, adapting between cultures, and how New Zealand eventually became home. We also talk about the creative industry, commercial photography, marathon training, and the differences in work-life culture between Malaysia and New Zealand. A relaxed and thoughtful conversation about creativity, identity, and balance.

Ep.11 — Sophie Kim: Hospitality, Burnout and Career Change

In this episode of Banana Lab, we are joined by Sophie Kim. Sophie shares her experience working in hospitality for over a decade, and the decision to transition into a career in marketing. We discuss burnout, work-life balance, and the challenges of prioritising yourself. Sophie also reflects on her move from Korea to New Zealand, learning English through lived experience, and adapting to a new environment. A thoughtful conversation about career change, identity, and building a new path.

Ep.10 — Romy Lee: Addiction, Identity and Recovery

In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy Lee steps into the guest seat to share her personal story. Romy reflects on growing up as a Korean New Zealander, navigating identity, sexuality, and significant mental health challenges from a young age. She shares her experience with addiction, spending 18 months in rehabilitation, and the journey towards recovery. Now working as a mental health and addiction practitioner, Romy discusses representation, cultural stigma, and the importance of compassion in supporting others. A powerful and honest conversation about identity, recovery, and purpose.