A few years ago, I had the privilege of meeting Nigel Latta when we were both speaking at the same conference.
I will always remember him talking to me afterwards about the breathwork I had used in my presentation. He was fascinated by the practical application of it and how something so simple could have such a powerful effect on people.
What struck me most wasn't his intelligence or reputation, although both were obvious; it was his presence.
Over the years we'd often bump into each other at airports. Like me, Nigel usually had his head buried in work, reading something interesting, or watching a video.
Yet whenever we saw each other, he would immediately put everything aside, stop what he was doing and spend time catching up.
No distractions, just genuine interest in another person. In a world that constantly competes for our attention, that is a rare gift.
Nigel spent much of his career helping New Zealanders better understand themselves, their behaviours, their relationships, and what it means to live a meaningful life.
His work translated psychology into something practical, relatable, and human.
I was fortunate to be involved in episode two of the documentary series inspired by his final book, Lessons on Living.
Exactly 12 months after his passing that I recieved an email from the producers, Ruckus Media, advising the publication of this project.
During what felt like a very long interview, John Aiken somehow managed to get me emotional not once, but twice.
The series explores three simple but powerful ideas over three episodes:
Drive the Bus
The space between what happens to us and how we choose to respond.
Focus on the Things You Can Control
Where our attention and energy are best directed when life feels overwhelming.
Teamwork
Belonging, vulnerability, kindness, connection, and ultimately Nigel's belief that the meaning of life comes back to love.
As Nigel often demonstrated through his work, the most important lessons in life are rarely complicated. They are simply difficult to remember when life gets busy, stressful, or uncertain.
Looking back, what I remember most isn't what Nigel knew, it's how he made time for people and how he made them feel.
Perhaps, that was one of the greatest lessons he taught us all.
Lessons on Living launches at 8.30 pm on Wednesday 14 October 2026 on Sky Open, Sky Go, ThreeNow, and Neon.
Thank you, Nigel. New Zealand is better for the conversations you started and for the understanding you helped create.
Let’s talk!