Tommy Livingston Trials and Tribulations

A late-night dispute ended in tragedy when a young man killed his abusive father. Tommy Livingston’s sensitive reporting of the ensuing murder trial captured its emotion and complexity – and ultimately led him to leave journalism for good. Content warning: Discusses suicide, domestic violence, abuse and violent themes. Watch the video version of the episode here. While reporting on the trial of a man accused of murdering his violent father, reporter Tommy Livingston became consumed by the case and the heartbroken family’s story, turning up to court even on his days off. Through discerning coverage of a complex death – one that both shattered a family and freed it from generations of abuse – Tommy earned their respect, but also came to the realisation journalism was no longer for him. In this kōrero with broadcaster and media chaplain Rev Frank Ritchie, Tommy talks about the toll reporting took on his mental health, what he’s learned about trauma, and his new career as a counsellor. Where to get help: Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason. Lifeline : 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357 Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends. Depression Helpline : 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202 Samaritans : 0800 726 666 (24/7) Youthline : 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz What's Up : free counselling for 5 to 19 years old, online chat 11am-10.30pm 7days/week or free phone 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 11am-11pm Asian Family Services : 0800 862 342 Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm or text 832 Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi and English. Rural Support Trust Helpline : 0800 787 254 Healthline: 0800 611 116 Rainbow Youth : (09) 376 4155 OUTLine : 0800 688 5463 (6pm-9pm) If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

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Tommy Livingston Trials and Tribulations is an episode from re_covering by RNZ.

This episode is 00:46:46 long.

This episode was published on Aug 12, 2025.

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