Jake Bailey on Facing Death at 17, And The Viral Speech That Changed Everything

Ten years ago Jake Bailey’s life changed overnight.

The Christchurch school head boy was diagnosed with stage-four Burkitt’s lymphoma, one of the fastest-growing cancers there is.

Just a week later, while undergoing chemotherapy, he delivered a now-iconic end-of-year speech that went viral around the world: viewed more than 50 million times and called one of the most inspirational moments of the decade.

Ten years on, Jake joins me on the podcast for an honest, funny, and moving conversation about survival, purpose, and what he’s learned about life on the other side of cancer.

In this wide-open conversation Jake shares:

• What really happened the week of that 2015 speech and haka
• The “nothingness” he felt at diagnosis and remission
• How to practice realistic optimism without “toxic positivity”
• Why community and asking for help are non-negotiable
• Using endurance sport to manufacture growth and grit
• Practical tools anyone can use to bounce back

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, packed with humour, humility, and practical lessons for anyone navigating tough times.

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