The Wrong End of the Table

"The Wrong End of the Table" is a podcast featuring Leah Panapa, Dean Morris, Andy Clay, and their offbeat producer Magic Mike, who dive into the world’s complexities with humor and honesty. Gathering at a virtual table, they address issues like youth crime—wondering if a boot camp or holistic approaches are better for young offenders of serious offenses—all while focusing on rehabilitation, education, and mentorship to encourage social development. Their conversations often highlight how better government funding and thoughtful policy outcomes might support communities in need.

Beyond crime and reform, the show tackles everyday concerns like healthcare costs and whether expanded doctor subsidies could ease access to treatment. The hosts’ debates blend lightheartedness with serious reflection, frequently punctuated by rapid-fire questions that prompt unexpected confessions and surprising opinions.

While discussing heavy topics, the trio savors snacks, injecting warmth and familiarity into the discourse. Personal passions arise, too, as they recall childhood ambitions and indulge in tales of classic cars or equestrian dreams, linking these stories to broader social themes. Pop culture favorites like Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings spark debates on morality, escapism, and cultural impact. The hosts also explore how physical appearance and dating preferences influence relationships, drawing parallels to society’s snap judgments in more significant arenas.

They recount their own fighting experiences, reflecting on how maturity shifts priorities toward violence prevention. Throughout, television influences (Oprah Winfrey) serve as a reminder that empathy, understanding, and dialogue matter.

In essence, "The Wrong End of the Table" invites listeners to join a conversation that fuses depth with levity. It’s a forum for reimagining old problems, savoring small pleasures, and considering fresh perspectives on the world’s complexity—one candid chat at a time.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Andrew Clay
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt
The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable

Topics of Discussion:

1. Transitioning to Sustainable Energy: The hosts discuss the challenges of shifting to greener energy while balancing economic growth and job retention. Andy champions a pragmatic approach, highlighting the unintended consequences of rushing to shut down coal plants without proper infrastructure in place. Leah and Dean emphasize the importance of planning and gradual transitions, with humorous asides about EV technology, solar power myths, and bureaucratic roadblocks. The conversation balances practical insights with playful banter, such as Andy’s commentary on conspiracy theories surrounding hydrogen fuel innovations.
2. Automation and AI in the Workplace: The hosts explore the implications of AI and automation, from its potential to replace human jobs to its ethical dilemmas. Leah shares her concerns about deepfake technology and its misuse, while Andy and Dean marvel at how quickly AI has turned science fiction into reality. From automated lawnmowers to the unnerving possibilities of cloned humans, the segment raises serious questions laced with humor and speculative musings.
3. Quickfire Questions:
   • Worst Jobs: The group recalls laborious teenage jobs like picking asparagus and strawberries, with vivid (and sometimes painful) memories of bending, blisters, and awkward first experiences.
   • Ridiculous Costumes: Lighthearted reminiscing about their most absurd outfits leads to a playful back-and-forth of outrageous tales.
   • Annoying Habits They’d Make Illegal: Suggestions range from chewing with your mouth open to overusing phrases like “If you know, you know,” with Andy contemplating throat-punching violators (in jest, of course).
   • Faking Laughter: The hosts admit to polite fake laughs to spare others’ feelings, with Andy sharing his experiences as a comedian enduring well-meaning but cringe-worthy joke-telling by fans.
4. Comedy and Politeness: Andy discusses the nuances of being a stand-up comedian, including the pressure of the first laugh to set the tone of a performance. The group reflects on New Zealanders’ politeness, which often leads to enduring awkward conversations or bad jokes rather than hurting someone’s feelings.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Andrew Clay
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt
The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable

Welcome to the “Wrong End of the Table” Podcast, a delightful blend of Comedy, Stand-up, and Personal stories hosted by Leah Panapa, Dean Morris, and Andy Clay. Along with their behind-the-scenes producer, Magic Mike, they tackle everything from random experiences to big-picture debates—always delivering a fresh perspective shaped by New Zealand life. In this Season finale, the hosts focus on a wide range of topics, reflecting on important issues like extending the Parliamentary term to a Four-year term. They also weigh the pros and cons of Government changes, consider the role of Opposition in shaping Public opinion, and delve into Politics in sport.

One highlight of the conversation is TJ Perenara’s decision to make a statement with the All Blacks, especially during the Haka. The hosts debate whether sports teams should speak out on Civil rights or prioritize the game. This leads to a spirited discussion on Freedom of speech, recalling historical moments such as the Springbok Tour. Listeners are encouraged to consider multiple perspectives and how they inform the national Consciousness.

The show doesn’t shy away from deeper subjects, touching on Dreams, the Afterlife, and Spirituality. By referencing Morgan Freeman as a symbolic figure, the hosts examine whether our Energy truly dissipates or continues in some form of Reincarnation. When Leah Panapa shares a vivid dream related to Guilt, it underscores how our innermost anxieties can manifest in extraordinary ways. These reflections add a compelling layer to an already entertaining mix of anecdotes and insights.

In addition to philosophical musings, the trio focuses on Habits, Resolutions, and Health goals, emphasizing the need for Fitness and mindful Time management. They explore how daily routines can slip when life gets hectic, offering tips on prioritizing tasks. Meanwhile, offbeat stories involving Unusual items spark humor as they illustrate how the smallest details can leave a lasting impression. From unexpected Impressions to hilarious slip-ups, every segment demonstrates that human connection often thrives on spontaneity.

As the Season finale wraps, the hosts share Year-end reflections on where they’ve been and where they’re headed. Whether dissecting Politics in sport, recounting random stand-up moments, or highlighting the importance of national conversations, “Wrong End of the Table” remains both thought-provoking and entertaining. Above all, the Podcast’s charm lies in its authenticity—reminding us that sometimes, the best way to move forward is by listening, laughing, and setting our sights on a future shaped by openness and curiosity.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Andrew Clay
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt
The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable

• Generation Toughness.
• Raising boys vs girls.
• Ridiculous things you have bought.
• Super Bowl.
• Things you wished you could do.
• Dinner with a fictional character.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Andrew Clay
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt
The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable

The team talks, Do you believe in ghosts or have you ever seen one? Is AI going to be dangerous, will it wipe out the human race or will it elevate the human race to a new level?

And the quick-fire questions that will make you think.

Host: Leah Panapa
Costhost: Dean Morris
Addition host: Andrew Clay
Addition host: Glen Levy
Producer: Mike Nesbitt
The youtube video version is available from the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrongEndoftheTable