In the Middle of It

We’ve reached the end of season one! In this episode, the team reflects on their journey of building a participation culture in Aotearoa and the metaphors that capture its promise. They discuss the “magnets” that pull us back into old habits and the importance of nurturing relationships before plans. Join us for a deep dive into what’s been learned and what lies ahead.

What happens when theory meets practice – when principles and actions interlock? In this episode, we bring the two together to explore what emerges and how we grapple with it. Johnnie Freeland (Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua, Ngāi Tūhoe) joins the conversation, sharing his “binocular approach,” alongside Glenview weaver Charles, to help us unpack what it means when we put it into action.

We dive into the ins and outs of mapping exercises, exploring what they uncover on the ground and how what shows up on the page can reveal deeper insights that shape the project. We’re joined by Nae, Libby, and Jaelyn – community weavers based in Glenview and Wellsford – to share their perspectives.

No plan survives contact with the real world. This episode unpacks the mantra we’ve embraced: relationships before ideas. What led us here? We also catch up with Marten Schievink, Senior Advisor at the Department of Internal Affairs, to hear what drew him to this project.

This episode explores the shifts we’ve observed in community development across Aotearoa and how these have shaped our mahi. We chat with Hamish Lindop, Innovation Coach at Auckland Council, and Maree Bevan, Strength Coach and Community Facilitator, who contribute to the conversation. Tune in for the scoop!

Kicking off a six-part series on building a participation culture in Aotearoa, hosts Cissy, Duncan, and Lucy-Mary sit down to reflect on how they got to this point, the importance of a “warm handshake,” and why relationships drive sustainable community efforts. Listen in for stories from the field and lessons learned so far.