Being Real Parents

Gentle parenting is everywhere right now, but many parents feel confused, exhausted, or worried they’re getting it wrong. In this episode, Anna and Kate unpack where gentle parenting comes from, what the research actually tells us, and why kindness and clear boundaries go hand in hand. A practical, reassuring kōrero about raising children with connection and realism in everyday family life.

Anna is joined by Bex Lipp from Wildling Books for an honest and heartfelt kōrero about parenting. Bex shares her experience of raising neurodivergent tamariki, home schooling, and finding her own rhythm as a mum. Bex’s story is full of insight, courage, and connection. Tune in for real talk on autism, motherhood, and the power of trusting yourself.

"Anna sits down with Aaron Hāpuku from the University of Canterbury for a thoughtful kōrero about Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and why understanding it matters for all of us.
Together, they explore how Te Tiriti is not just historical or political, but can guide how we work, parent, lead, and relate to each other every day.
This kōrero offers an accessible starting point for anyone wanting to better understand Te Tiriti and feel more confident bringing its values into everyday life."

Today on the podcast Anna is joined again by Elizabeth Goodwin from Awhi Ngā Mātua. They talk about what Awhi Ngā Mātua is, who it’s for, and how parents can connect with this powerful community. Awhi Ngā Mātua supports parents and carers of intellectually disabled, neurodivergent and medically fragile tamariki, offering connection, understanding and practical support. This kōrero is for any parent wanting to feel less alone and more supported.

Kate and Juliet reflect on their year as working mums, sharing the real moments, the things that wobbled, and what helped them through. It’s a gentle, relatable kōrero about navigating busy lives, setting simple intentions, and remembering we don’t need to have everything sorted to move into a new year with hope and steadiness.