We are so excited to introduce to you our latest series we like to call our Brain Heroes. 

A Brain Hero is someone that we at Ārepa have identified as someone looking to make a difference in the world, is having a big impact in their industry/category, is an inspirational and epic human being, trying to make the world a better place or simply wanting to better their brain.

And our next Brain Hero is Wayne Olds. Wayne is the Operations Manager at GSD4U - one of the warehouses responsible for sending out our Brainfood all across the world. 

We chat to Wayne to find out a bit more about his life, what he does to keep his mental health in check, what got him to where he is now and where he's headed. 

How did you first get into your role at GSD4U? 

I knew the Owners of GSD4U from a previous position and was impressed by the vision and values of the Company, which was just starting out.  After talking with them I was keen to be a part of something that I felt was going to be very special.  

What do you love most about your job? 

 Working with a great team who take pride in their work and want to offer the best service they possibly can to all our clients.  This means working together to come up with different ideas to resolve problems that inevitably arise or just to work smarter on everyday jobs.  The staff are valued by the Company and this a has a big impact on workplace attitudes, enjoying our work, and doing a good job.

How important has getting your mental health right been for you and how important has it been for you to communicate that with others?

I am very fortunate to have a small group of close friends who are a great support.  They always have time to just listen if and when I need to talk and this makes a huge difference during the times that stresses can get to you.  It is nice to be able to talk about things, even if they may seem trivial, without judgement.  It is then that you appreciate that you need too continually spend time working on your mental wellbeing.

What’s your favourite part of the day/something you always look forward to doing? 

I always enjoy taking a few minutes to myself at the end of the day when I get home just to sit and relax - no phones, texts, or emails and time to think about something that I am looking forward to that might be coming up.  It is a really nice way to unwind.

Who would be your Brain Hero (role model?)

Without naming individuals, I have huge respect and admiration for the growing number of people who give their time and service so freely to help those who are struggling in the local community.  As time are getting tougher there are so many people who volunteer at local food banks and charities, and also doing really important work at services offering mental well being help, that are real unsung role models.

How did you first hear about Ārepa and what did you like most about our products? 

My original exposure to Arepa was through one of the Company founders and have been excited that gsd4U have been able to work with them distributing their products.   I have become a regular Arepa drink user and I really do feel that it has made a positive difference, particularly when I feel tired.  I keep a stock of Calm & Clarity bottles in my fridge so it is always easy to grab one and it tastes great

What's one thing you do every day to keep your mental health in check?

Each morning before I start I try to take a few minutes to think about the days priorities and what needs to get done whether it is work or personal time.  It gives me a clear picture of the day ahead and what I may need to have to ask for help with and, if and when the unexpected happens, makes me feel a little more in control and less stressed.  

How do you use Ārepa in your daily life? 

I tend to have an Arepa drink as the day progresses.  If I am feeling a little tired it does help me refocus on what else needs to be done for the rest of the day.

What’s your next big goal to achieve? 

From a personal perspective, spending more quality time with my family and from a work perspective, making life easier for our clients by doing a great job for them.  It has been an exciting time working with Arepa and we look forward to seeing them growing and offering great products for mental well being.