A message found the founder
Nick David Smith
Bloke. Husband. Father. Still learning—still showing up.
I never set out to become a men’s work guy. But after years of pushing, proving, stuffing things down, and almost losing myself in the process—I reckon this kind of work chose me.
I’m Nick. I live in Brighton, Dunedin with my wife Tesh and our two young kids, Oakley and Elsie. These days, life feels slower. Simpler. More honest. But it took a lot to get here.
FROM HUSTLE TO HONESTY
Like a lot of blokes, I spent years trying to outrun a feeling I couldn’t quite name.
I was chasing success—built businesses, studied coaching, trained like a madman, stood on stages. I was doing all the things you’re meant to do to "be someone."
But underneath, I was anxious. Often disconnected. Trying to be a better man while quietly battling shame, comparison, self-doubt, and loneliness. I thought I had to fix everything before I could be worthy of love—especially in my relationship. I brought all that into my marriage and fatherhood until it nearly broke me.
What saved me wasn’t more hustle. It was slowing down. Getting honest. Owning my patterns. Learning how to lead myself without the mask on. That’s where Solid As was born.
Solid As is for men like us
I started a men’s circle here in Brighton (Dunedin) because I needed one. A space where we could just drop it all for a night—no judgment, no trying to impress anyone. Just real men, talking real stuff.
Now that circle’s full. There’s a waitlist. We’re building toward more—new circles in Dunedin and Christchurch, and training for those who feel called to lead this work too.
This isn’t therapy. It’s not fluffy. It’s the stuff that makes you better where it counts—at home, with your missus, with your kids, in your own bloody skin.
I'M STILL DOING THE WORK
I still get it wrong. Still catch myself checking out, biting back stress..
Still taking things personally. But I come back faster now. I breathe. I own it. I reconnect. That’s the point.
I’ve stopped trying to be “fixed” and started living from a place that’s more solid. Grounded. Free.
If any of that hits home—if you feel the weight, or the numbness, or that sense that something’s gotta shift—I reckon you’re in the right place.
Let’s get to work.
Nick
Founder, Solid As Men’s Work
You In? Let's Chat.
