Te Kāinga Wāhine Podcast

In this Kaputī Break, Amy reflects on a powerful kōrero that emerged from a recent Te Ara Whaiaro session and the shared discomfort that can arise when we are asked to truly look at ourselves. She unpacks how Te Ara Whaiaro was created, using the pā harakeke as an analogy for reflection, growth, and understanding our place within the bigger picture. This episode gently invites wāhine to turn the m...

In this Kaputī Break, Amy shares a powerful kōrero that arose from inside Te Ara Whaiaro, a six-week reflective practice group in TKW membership. She breaks down what decision fatigue really is, how it builds throughout our days, and why even the smallest choices can feel heavy when our energy is already drained. Through real life examples from whānau, business, and everyday routines, Amy offers g...

In this Kaputī Break, Amy brings a kōrero inspired by Te Ara Whaiaro, a self-leadership framework she has been exploring with wāhine inside Te Kāinga Wāhine.  This episode offers an honest look at how easily we convince ourselves that thinking, researching, or planning counts as progress when, in reality, the real shift occurs in the doing. Amy shares her own journey of drawing a line in the sand,...

In this Kaputī Break, Amy delves into the recent government changes affecting kura and whānau across Aotearoa, as well as the invisible load carried at these times. She shares openly about the fears, the armour, and the responsibility that comes with standing for Te Tiriti o Waitangi and advocating for our people. Courage grows in the spaces where we choose to rise. If the shifts in Aotearoa have...

Step into the very first Kaputī Break ☕ where Amy opens the door to the kōrero held inside Te Kāinga Wāhine. These quick, real conversations are brewed for busy wāhine Māori who want something real to sit with over a cuppa. In this episode, she brings an analogy about planting trees and challenges us to rethink how we build relationships, make decisions, and hold the long-term future in mind. It’...

In this episode, Amy sits down with Cat Rikihana to kōrero about her transformative journey in leadership and self-discovery. Cat shares how her time in the LEAD programme helped her step out of her comfort zone, develop powerful leadership narratives, and use visualization as a tool for growth. We explore the courage it takes to trust and back yourself, the importance of making bold decisions, an...

In this episode, Amy McLean explores the powerful impact of the words we use—both about ourselves and with others. She unpacks how subtle phrases like “I’m just” or “I’ll try” or “I should” can chip away at our mana and keep us playing small, while intentional language can shift our energy and bring us into alignment with our purpose.  Drawing from real-life examples and recent insights from the L...

In this episode, Amy McLean explores the courage it takes to step into visibility as wāhine. Why does being seen often feel so daunting? Amy unpacks the fears—of judgment, rejection, and even success—that can hold us back.  This kōrero reminds us that leadership comes in many forms—loud or quiet, bold or grounded—and that true courage lies in showing up as our authentic selves. Discover practical...

In this episode of Weaving Futures with Te Kāinga Wāhine, Amy McLean reflects on the recent Te Mana o Ngā Wāhine event, unpacking the power of collective leadership and the importance of trusting the journey. Sometimes, the most impactful moments are those we could never even hope for. Amy shares the story of how a casual conversation turned into a movement that brought wāhine together to connect,...

In this episode, Amy McLean takes us behind the scenes of the upcoming Te Mana o Ngā Wāhine event. She shares how this wāhine-led event came to life, inspired by the need for stronger wāhine representation on leadership stages. We break down why representation matters and why it needs to be meaningful. Amy unpacks the significance of mana wāhine and explores how wāhine Māori can reclaim their spac...

In this episode, Amy explores the art of listening as a fundamental leadership tool, both within our whare and in the wider world. She reflects on the changing dynamics of parenting her daughters and how truly listening to their unique needs has transformed her approach to leadership. Amy shares insights on how listening deeply allows us to understand, support, and empower those around us, whether...

In the final episode of this three-part series on building resilience, Amy explores the phenomenon of Tall Poppy Syndrome and its impact on wāhine in leadership. She dives into the kūmara mentality and the balance between humility and celebrating success. Drawing on personal experiences and reflections, Amy discusses how we can build resilience and navigate the challenges of external validation wh...

In Part 2 of this three-part series on building resilience, Amy explores the complex dynamics of the Queen Bee Syndrome and its impact on wāhine leadership. Through candid kōrero, she examines how this phenomenon manifests, the challenges it poses, and its broader implications on wāhine Māori. Drawing from personal anecdotes and research, Amy highlights how some women, after fighting hard to reach...

In Part 1 of this three-part series on building resilience, Amy dives into the challenging yet important topic of overcoming the fear of being judged by our own people. That’s right - we said it out loud! Drawing from personal experiences and collective stories, Amy explores the complexities of reconnecting with Māoritanga, navigating identity, and the impact of internal and external critique. She...

In this episode, Amy McLean reflects on the unique elements of leadership programs designed for wāhine Māori. She answers a thought-provoking question posed by a fellow facilitator: why do wāhine Māori need their own leadership programmes? Amy dives into the importance of context, the significance of creating spaces that resonate with wāhine Māori, and how leadership transcends traditional roles....

In this episode, Amy tackles "comparisonitis" and how it affects our sense of self-worth and success. Drawing from recent conversations and personal experiences, she unpacks the illusion created by social media and the dangers of comparing our behind-the-scenes with others' highlight reels. Amy emphasizes the importance of recognizing our unique journeys and the value of authentic s...

In this episode, Amy McLean explores the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care to maintain high energy levels and perform at your best. Sharing personal stories and practical insights, Amy discusses how recognising your own needs and honouring them can lead to sustainable success in both personal and professional life. We dive into the necessity of good sleep and regular kai...

In this episode, Amy dives into the experiences of cultural labour and how this can lead to unexpected responsibilities to moments of growth. Amy explores the challenges and rewards of navigating te ao Māori in today's world. We discuss practical strategies for both supporting and sharing cultural responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of collective learning and empowerment. Whether you...

In this episode, Amy dives into the essence of whakawhanaungatanga and its significance in creating meaningful relationships. She shares her recent experiences working with diverse groups and emphasizes the importance of understanding and connecting beyond job titles. We explore how whakawhanaungatanga fosters deeper connections, the impact of introducing oneself through ties to whenua, awa and mo...

In this episode, Amy delves into the concept of life's seasons and how they shape our experiences and growth. Drawing inspiration from Te Whare Tapa Whā, we explore the ebbs and flows of life and work, reframing challenging times as essential periods of growth and preparation for what’s next. Amy shares practical insights on recognizing and navigating different seasons in our lives, whether t...

In this episode Amy dives into the pātai: Can everyone be a leader?  We challenge traditional notions of leadership and empower you to step into your own leadership potential, by unpacking your understanding of what leadership is.  We're here to change the perspective on titles and roles, and instead learn practical ways to influence and impact others in all areas of your life. Tune in for a...

In this episode, Amy shares a personal journey of opting out of alcohol in her life. She explores societal pressures, self-reflection, and the power of choosing your truths. We dive into the dynamics of social environments, challenging norms, and crafting meaningful connections beyond social expectations. Looking for more? We write a weekly newsletter that talks on all the good stuff about and for...

In this episode we dive into the power of true self-honesty. Amy explores the consequences of saying "yes" out of obligation versus following your intuition. It’s a conversation on the importance of aligning commitments with passion and purpose. You're invited to consider your relationship with obligation and reclaim agency over your time and energy. Looking for more? We write a wee...

In this episode, Marketing Coach & Strategist Emmaleen shares her career journey in marketing, across industries and countries. With a focus on serving introverted women entrepreneurs, Emmaleen’s insights talk to embracing one's authentic self when diving in to marketing.  Join us as we kōrero on the power of self-awareness, intentional practice, and resilience in navigating marketing as...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative journey of Ahenata-May Daniels, Reo Māori kaiako and founder of Te Hūnuku. Ahenata-May shares her experiences of reconnecting with her whakapapa and language, emphasizing the importance of intentional practice and self-discovery. Discover the power of tears as a form of healing, the significance of observing and connecting with the taiao, and the pr...