Dr Alexander Stevens II joins Ivan on the Authentic Leadership Podcast for a powerful conversation that begins with a heartfelt celebration of his PhD achievement and the story behind his full name, then unfolds into a deeply human journey of purpose, identity, and service.

Alexander shares how growing up around domestic violence, mental health challenges, and later experiencing firsthand exposure to sexual violence disclosures shaped the path he chose, and why he committed his life to supporting others through trauma, addiction, and recovery. He speaks candidly about navigating racism and bias in Aotearoa, why Māori often have to work “three to four times harder,” and how dignity, mana, and strategic restraint can be a form of strength.

A major focus is his PhD in sexual violence recovery and the gap he saw for men—especially Māori ...