In this first part of our kōrero, I sit down with Dame Anne Salmond—a thinker whose mind is vast, and whose heart is very much rooted in the soil of Aotearoa. Dame Anne is an anthropologist, writer, and one of our most decorated scholars, but what shapes her most is relationship - whakapapa, whenua, and whānau. We start where all good conversations should: at the kitchen table. Dame Anne tells me about her wild and wonderful upbringing in a family of nine kids, where dinner was frequently like a full-blown debate club, and learning happened between bites. We talk about difference - political, personal - and why being able to think, laugh and disagree together is something worth holding on to. She also shares the love story behind Waikereru, Longbush Reserve, the eco-sanctuary she and her husband Jeremy created near her childhood haunts on the outskirts of Gisbourne, and how that land became a place of healing, beauty, and belonging for them both. This part of the conversation is full of life - stories of childhood, whakapapa, parenting, joy, grief, restoration, and deep connection to place. It's the foundation for the rich ideas we explore in part two. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.Support the show: https://greyareas.nz/support
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1:01:59
Your body’s not betraying you - it’s whispering | Dr Libby Weaver
In this episode I sit down with biochemist Dr Libby Weaver, a nutritionist, speaker, and author of 13 books (soon to be 14). Libby brings a holistic lens to wellbeing, combining science, nutrition, and emotional insight in a way that’s both practical and also deeply human. We explore the gap between what we know and what we do, and why that gap exists. Libby unpacks the power of belief systems – how they quietly shape our choices, our habits, and even our health. We talk about stress, sugar cravings, hormone changes, perimenopause, self-talk, and the importance of iron, all woven through with her gentle encouragement to be curious, not critical. What I loved most is Libby’s message that our bodies are not betraying us – they’re whispering to us. And if we pause to listen, we might just discover the kind of deep wisdom and clarity we’ve been hunting for in all the wrong places. This kōrero is science-meets-soul, and a gentle nudge toward greater kindness – to ourselves, and to our brilliant, hardworking bodies. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.Support the show: https://greyareas.nz/support
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1:14:52
Public scrutiny & personality types | Amanda Luxon
In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Luxon. Amanda is a former teacher, Myers-Briggs coach, lifelong learner – and yes, the ‘First Lady’ of New Zealand. Our conversation isn’t about politics (though it inevitably comes up), but about difference, understanding, and friendship – because even though in many ways we’re chalk and cheese, we’ve been friends for years. We first connected over our shared passion for fighting human trafficking, but on a long summer walk earlier this year, we found language for just how differently we see the world – and how fascinating and enriching that can be. Amanda shares her deep love of the Myers-Briggs personality typing framework, which has helped her understand her own strengths as an ISTJ, and helped her see me, an ENFP, with more clarity and appreciation. There’s humour, honesty, and a whole lot of heart in this kōrero as we explore how personality differences play out in parenting, partnership, and even public life – and how making space for our differences can bring us closer. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.Support the show: https://greyareas.nz/support
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1:28:08
Breaking silence - you’re not alone | Ali Mau
In this latest episode I am joined by acclaimed journalist and author Ali Mau, who’s new memoir, No Words for This, has just hit shelves. This powerful and vulnerable conversation covers Ali’s experiences with childhood sexual abuse, the life-changing phone call from her sister and her journey to speaking publicly. We also delve into complex family dynamics and the significant power of knowing you're not alone. Ali also tells us about her game-changing new charity, Tika, the twists and turns of her career, and her way of riding into a better work/life balance. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.Support the show: https://greyareas.nz/support
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1:01:02
Love, grief & Alzheimer’s | Michael Hurst + Jennifer Ward-Lealand
In this episode we delve into the captivating love story of legendary actors Michael Hurst and Jennifer Ward-Leland, whose "showmance" has blossomed into a beautiful partnership spanning over four decades. Michael and Jennifer open up about their personal lives, sharing heartwarming memories (such as the excitement of buying their first Toyota), and reflecting on their rich experiences in the world of theatre. From navigating the challenges of aging and caregiving to exploring the emotional depths of performing in a play centered around dementia, this episode offers sincere insights into the power of love and art. Discover how the stage serves as a platform for empathy and community, and how the phenomenon of "Dr Theatre" can mask physical pain in the moment and provide a unique emotional release. Don't miss this heartfelt discussion as we celebrate the enduring love and theatrical collaboration between Michael and Jennifer. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.Support the show: https://greyareas.nz/support
Kia ora and nau mai haere mai to Grey Areas with me, Petra Bagust. This is about growing up and going grey, in Aotearoa New Zealand because I’m getting older. And so are you. So how do we do it well?
I reckon we can do it with a bit of gorgeousness and gusto and break that ‘getting old’ mould just a little. Or maybe more than a little.
So join me as we climb into some of those topics that just aren't so clear-cut, maybe are a little chewy, a little crunchy… and let’s journey our way through them.
I've got a group of wonderful wāhine, and the odd beaut bloke, to chat with, and we're going to share some wisdom that we've discovered along the way. And I’d love for you to share your wisdom with me too, because everybody has something to offer.
New Zealand