Welcome back to the Planting Seeds Podcast – and the return of Solo Sessions. These episodes are an honest glimpse into my personal journey, the things I’m reflecting on, and the lessons I’m learning behind the scenes.In this session, I take a trip down memory lane to 2016, the year I truly committed to the path of growth. It was the foundation for a life-changing shift in 2017, where I made the decision to go alcohol-free and plant-based. But as I’ve come to learn, growth isn’t always about add...
Jun 05, 2025•15 min
In this powerful kōrero, we sit down with Taurus Taurima, a man who chose a different path—and stuck to it. Raised in Flaxmere, Hawke’s Bay, Taurus stood at a crossroads: the army or the Mongrel Mob. When the army didn’t work out, he entered a world of crime and prison life.But his story doesn’t end there.We dive deep into:✨ His early years and life as a Mongrel Mob member✨ The moment he chose to change his life after prison✨ How he pushed through rejection after rejection to find a job✨ The tur...
Apr 27, 2025•35 min
This episode is a personal favorite – a deep and entertaining kōrero with my good friend, brother, and one of NZ’s funniest comedians , Joe Daymond . Beyond the laughs, Joe shares a real and raw insight into where he is in life right now and the challenges men face with mental health . We dive into: ✨ Showing up authentically on social media & in real life ✨ Joe’s health & fitness journey and why it matters to him ✨ A powerful segment on men’s mental health – the struggles, the shifts, a...
Feb 20, 2025•1 hr 2 min
In this vibrant and uplifting kōrero, we sit down with Kelly-Aroha Huata , a wāhine Māori who radiates courage, positivity, and passion. Hailing from Ngāti Kahungunu, Kelly shares how the unconditional love from her parents shaped her fearless approach to life. We dive deep into: ✨ How whānau and upbringing built her confidence and courage ✨ Being fearless as a māmā, partner, and businesswoman ✨ Her love for her people and whenua as the foundation of her One Acre ✨ The importance of financial ed...
Feb 13, 2025•50 min
In this powerful and insightful kōrero, we sit down with Rawhitiroa Bosch , the man behind the lens who has dedicated his life to showcasing the magic of Māoridom. More than just a photographer, Rawhitiroa is a staunch activist who uses his craft to amplify the voices of our people.We dive deep into:✨ Following tikanga but sending a clear message at Waitangi✨ The Hīkoi – when people marched from the top of the North Island to Parliament✨ The power of controlling the narrative✨ How this governmen...
Feb 08, 2025•39 min
In this rare and powerful kōrero, Hone Harawira shares insights into his journey as an activist, his mother’s influence, and his vision for the future. From the early days of Ngā Tama Toa to passing the torch to the next generation of Māori activators, this episode captures a different side of Hone that many may not have seen before.We dive deep into:✨ The impact of his mother in shaping his activism✨ The early protests in Aotearoa & the fight for Māori rights✨ The art of language and how wo...
Feb 08, 2025•36 min
In this powerful and raw kōrero, Jase Te Patu shares how his upbringing shaped his purpose, from experiencing his father leaving at a young age to the deep healing journey through te reo Māori. Jase opens up about: ✨ How toxic fuel drove him to seek external validation ✨ The power of words and how they shaped his identity ✨ Healing generational trauma through te reo Māori ✨ Why he is so passionate about supporting rangatahi ✨ His journey with alcohol, ADHD, and breaking cycles Now leading Hauora...
Jan 30, 2025•1 hr 3 min
Starting 2025 with this epic conversation with my good friend Byron Austin ( byron.grows ). In this episode, we discuss how Byron got into food forestry, the projects he’s passionate about, and take a deep dive into him as a person and leader. We explore his mindset, how he addresses insecurities and what drives him. I hope you enjoy this kōrero and if you do receive value, leave a comment below and be sure to follow Byron.Grows . Episode Breakdown 0:00 Intro 5:30 Getting Into Food Forest 9:21 S...
Jan 23, 2025•59 min
In this episode, we sit down for a second kōrero with Papa Mark Kopua to delve deeper into Mahi a Atua and the transformative mahi happening within wānanga. Papa Mark shares pūrākau of Atua Māori, the art of giving and receiving feedback, and the significance of mauri as an anchor and purpose in our lives and kaupapa. Papa also reflects on his journey as an artist, speaking about the connection between art and home, the gifting of art, and practical ways to overcome creative blocks. This episode...
Jan 15, 2025•48 min
In this episode, we sit down with Tama , the man behind the lens of Mahi a Atua , as he steps outside his comfort zone to share his personal journey. Tama reflects on being raised in Hawke's Bay, the lessons he has learned from his children, and the life changing experience of connecting with Mahi a Atua , capturing moments during wānanga and his work addressing gambling harm within the community. This kōrero highlights Tama’s growth, healing and dedication to creating positive change. For more ...
Jan 08, 2025•29 min
In this episode, I sit down with Jana, a Mataora for Mahi a Atua , to explore her journey of reconnecting with Te Ao Māori and anchoring herself through cultural practice and healing. We discuss the impacts of moving around, the challenges of disconnection, and how engaging with Mahi a Atua has shaped her path. Jana shares insights on building confidence, navigating expectations placed on young wāhine, the importance of practicing integration, dealing with feedback that hurts, and staying ground...
Jan 08, 2025•30 min
In this episode, we sit down with Kelly Burns, a Mataora (change agent) for Mahi a Atua , to explore her journey of transformation and growth. Kelly opens up about her upbringing in Te Araroa as well as sharing the influence Mahi a Atua - teaching her the importance of giving and receiving feedback and the profound impact of supporting herself and others through life's highs and lows. This episode was recorded during a Rangi Parauri Mahi a Atua Wānanga. We hope you enjoy the value! 0:00 Intro 4:...
Dec 19, 2024•37 min
Solo session unpacking the lessons of the season as well as 2024. Navigating uncertainty, friendships and preparing for what is ahead for 2025.
Dec 15, 2024•18 min
In this episode, I sit down with Rikki Solomon , a respected practitioner of the Maramataka. We discuss his upbringing with his koro, working with tūpāpaku, transitioning into Maramataka, and how it can be applied in our lives. This kōrero, recorded during a Mahi a Atua Rangi Parauri Wānanga at Pākōwhai Marae, explores indigenising data, the pressures of Christmas, and embracing the Māori lunar calendar. Tune in for inspiring insights on time, culture, and connection. Follow link to know more ...
Dec 12, 2024•1 hr 11 min
In this episode, we kōrero with Hinemoa Jones, a māreikura and facilitator for Mahi a Atua , as well as a writer, educator, and performer of karetao (The Māori puppet). Together, we explore her connection to Mahi a Atua , the concept of Atuatanga , and the role of remembering in her journey. Hinemoa shares insights into spiritual growth , karanga , and the art of facilitation , including the importance of space holding and seeing transformation in others. This episode was recorded during a Mahi ...
Dec 01, 2024•39 min
In this episode, we kōrero with Carrie Savage , whose healing journey has profoundly transformed not only her own life but also the lives of her whānau. Carrie shares insights into how unlearning plays a vital role in growth, the importance of listening to our tamariki , and the power of doing what you need to do for personal and collective wellbeing. We explore solutions rooted in te ao Māori , the transformative work of Mahi a Atua , and how healing is found in wānanga . Carrie also reflects o...
Nov 20, 2024•45 min
In this episode, we sit down with Tina Ngata , hailing from Ngāti Porou, an advocate for Indigenous, human, and environmental rights. Recorded during the Mahi a Atua Rangi Parauri Wānanga in Gisborne, Tina shares her passion for justice , the hard decisions she’s faced, and the central role of connection in her work. We explore critical topics like the D octrine of Discovery , colonialism , and the savage warrior myth , as well as the importance of controlling the narrative . Tina offers practic...
Nov 20, 2024•58 min
It was an honour to sit down with the legendary Te Hāmua Nikora - a familiar face on screen, a captivating voice, a humour that brings laughter to all, a heart for our rangatahi, and a true representative of Māoridom. Enjoy this conversation as we explore the significance of names, working with rangatahi, life in media, personal stories of vulnerability, kōrero from Ngāti Porou, and insights from Mahi a Atua. This episode was filmed during the Mahi a Atua Rangi Parauri Wānanga in Gisborne. 0:00 ...
Nov 06, 2024•47 min
Excited to reconnect with kōkā Diana Kopua for another powerful kōrero. In this episode, we dive deep into Māori healing, pūrākau Māori, the importance of embracing feedback, and reframing failure to failing. Doctor Diana also shares how the principles of Mahi a Atua come alive in real-time during wānanga. This episode was recorded at the Rangi Parauri Wānanga at Pākōwhai Marae in Gisborne. Leave a comment below to share what resonated most with you. 0:00 Intro 7:20 Welcoming Feedback 12:00 Fail...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 4 min
It's always an empowering conversation when my brother Nick sits across from me. He's in a new season, and we explore a variety of topics that will leave you reflecting and gaining new insights. We discuss subjects like service and healing, embracing obstacles, the 7 Hermetic Principles, living in the present moment, relationships, and breaking thought and behavioral patterns. 0:00 Intro 7:30 The Impact of Spirituality 13:30 Life Happening For You 19:27 Embracing Obstacles 24:50 PLOM Disease 28:...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 1 min
I had an amazing kōrero with my best friend and wife, Hinepanea Rewiri , where she opened up about her journey as a māmā to our two sons. She shared the challenges she's faced with postpartum and reflected on what has supported her during this season of self-discovery, exploring who she is beyond being a mother and a wife. We also took some time to discuss our marriage and the personal and shared growth we've experienced over the years. Her intention with this episode was to be open and honest a...
Sep 18, 2024•52 min
In this episode, we sit down with Te Wehi , a renowned moko artist and kaihaka, whose life is a testament to the richness of te ao Māori. Raised by his grandparents, Te Wehi's early years were immersed entirely in te reo Māori, fostering a deep connection to te ao Māori and a passion for toi Māori. His journey through kapa haka has taken him across the globe, showcasing the beauty of our culture. Join us as we share a kōrero about Te Wehi’s upbringing, the significance of kapa haka, insights on ...
Aug 22, 2024•1 hr 11 min
In this episode, I dive into the key insights from last week’s ‘Cultivate Clarity, Ignite Your Purpose’ Masterclass, where I shared two simple yet powerful questions that sparked massive shifts in my own personal journey: What would you like your life to look like? What are your values? Answering these questions provides profound clarity and helps you align your actions with your purpose in everyday moments. If you've been on a personal development path but find yourself feeling stuck, the upcom...
Aug 22, 2024•13 min
In this episode with Te Kanapu, we explore how Te Reo Māori has been a gift that keeps on giving. We discuss te reo Māori and tikanga, finding purpose, working at a government level, co-writing hit songs "I Am" and "Māori ki te Ao" with Stan Walker, being among heroes, and sharing experiences with gambling harm. 0:00 - Intro 3:37 - Purpose 8:16 - The Gift That Keeps On Giving 11:10 - Breaking Down Tikanga 18:22 - He Who Waits Will Receive 22:29 - Co-Writing 'I Am' 27:24 - Being Among Heroes 33:5...
Aug 08, 2024•59 min
Tame Malcom speaks about being a twin, his upbringing in Rotorua, and his love for the bush. He shares different tikanga and pūrakau related to the ngahere, his te reo Māori journey, being a pāpā, organising kura reo taiao, and kōrero about different manu aligning with Tipuārangi. 0:00 Intro 5:00 Love for the Bush 6:20 Mauri of the Ngahere 9:35 Tikanga and kawa 10:10 Playing Sounds to the Forest 10:47 Sounds of the Ngahere 11:49 Story of Rata 14:20 Connected to Environment 15:15 My Reset Place 1...
Jul 25, 2024•46 min
Hohepa Tuahine speaks about his upbringing, moving from place to place, and feeling the void of te reo Māori. He shares his journey of revitalizing te reo Māori in his mid-20s, lessons from his eldest daughter, researching Matariki, and his love for working in the māra, aligning with Tipuānuku. 0:00 Intro 3:15 Moving Around 4:40 The Void 5:40 Importance of Stability 7:45 Being Intentional 8:30 Circumstances Change 10:10 Our Kids are Mirrors 12:00 Proud of You Being You 13:30 Worried About Te Reo...
Jul 19, 2024•53 min
In this episode, we share space with Dr. Diana Kopua , a Māori psychiatric specialist who incorporates pūrākau Māori through Mahi a Atua to support whānau in distress. We discuss her upbringing, spiritual connection, journey through medical school, stance against racism, standing in your power and kōrero related to Waitī, one of the nine stars of the Matariki cluster linked to the sea. 0:00 Intro 3:30 Path to becoming a doctor 5:30 Building Confidence 7:30 Spiritual Connection 9:20 The Concept o...
Jul 10, 2024•1 hr 3 min
Papa Mark Kopua is renowned for his expertise in whakairo and moko. He has carved seven wharenui and has significantly contributed to the practice of moko. His talent extends beyond the arts; he is also a gifted storyteller. Through his art and the sharing of pūrakau related to Atua Māori and kōrero tuku iho (ancient wisdom), he imparts valuable lessons and insights through Mahi a Atua alongside his wife Doctor Diana Kopua as well as kōrero pertaining to Matariki. 0:00 - Intro 5:24 - Story of Up...
Jul 04, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Professor Rangi is a pioneer in Māori astronomy and in particular Matariki. His research and unique ability to share knowledge has led to Matariki now being a public holiday in Aotearoa, New Zealand. It's been 5 years since he last sat across from me and in this conversation we dive into Matariki, meaningful Matariki moments, Matariki and healing, the concept of time, his desire to step back and what he plans to focus his energy on next. Comment your feedback below and subscribe for future episo...
Jun 27, 2024•50 min
Whirimako is known for her music and using music to uplift te reo Māori. This conversation we dive into her upbringing, personal growth, the music industry, moving home from Australia and giving yourself the permission to express your gift. Whirimako speaks into Waitī and her unique experiences of gathering and preserving foods growing up the river in Ruatoki. Waitī is the star associated to fresh water within Matariki. Comment your feedback below and subscribe for future episodes. 'Seeds of Mat...
Jun 20, 2024•49 min
