49. Navigating the Mystery: Mental health, Grief, Sisterhood & my return to Āio with Tarikura Kapea & Robbie Fear

There comes a moment in many of our lives when everything we thought was certain begins to unravel. In this deeply personal episode, I step out from behind the interviewer's seat and into the hot seat myself. Joined by one of my besties, somatic and narrative therapist Robbie Fear, I share the story behind my year-long pause from Āio. We explore the heartbreak of grieving a future that never came to be, navigating the end of a loving relationship, losing friendships, rebuilding community, and what it means to begin again when every foundation beneath you has shifted. I also speak candidly about my journey with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), the impact it had on my mental health, and the practices, support and healing that helped me find my way back to myself. This conversation is an invitation into the messiness of being human. It is about learning to use our voice, asking for what we need, embracing community, and trusting that even in seasons of uncertainty, something beautiful is quietly being rebuilt. In this episode we explore: My year away from Āio and why I stepped back Living with PMDD and its impact on mental health Grieving relationships and imagined futures Conscious uncoupling and healing after heartbreak Friendship, community and the courage to ask for support Boundaries, authenticity and reclaiming your voice Building a purpose-led business with integrity Trusting the mystery and beginning again Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation in the context of PMDD. If you're moving through something similar, please listen gently and reach out for support if you need it. CONNECT Tarikura Kapea Instagram | @tarikura_ Robbie Fear  Instagram | @robbienofear ĀIO Instagram | @aio.thepodcastTikTok | @aio.thepodcastWebsite | www.aiothepodcast.com Cacao Discount Earth Women  Website | earthwomen.nz CODE: AIO15  For 15% off your next order.  Rongoā Māori Course Learn how to work with RongoāMāori safetly and effectively Āio x Awhina Henry Rongoa Foundations