A podcast exploring what it takes to grow participation culture in Aotearoa. We go inside community development as it actually happens — the breakthroughs, the setbacks, and everything in between. Now in our second season, we're continuing to follow the journey of communities across Aotearoa as they build something new together.
For the final episode of season two, Cissy, Duncan and Lucy-Mary reflect on what this phase of the project has revealed. From lessons they have learned, to assumptions that needed unlearning, and questions they are still grappling with. They also discuss the inadequacy of quantitative measures when it comes to understanding what is happening on the ground and what it might mean to look for alternative signs of good health going forward.
10 Aug 2026
S2 EP5: Speed & Variety
This episode focuses on questions of speed and variety. Our hosts discuss the importance of attuning to the rhythm of each place, rather than applying a set tempo. They also share how ‘common-denominator activities’ like cooking, gardening and repairing are great for attracting a variety of people and connecting across difference. The episode concludes by reflecting on different cultural understandings of time and how this work involves holding these in tension.
3 Aug 2026
S2 EP4: Don’t Leave it to the Professionals
What makes a good community weaver? Our hosts turn their attention to the people doing this work and the kinds of qualities that are needed. From knowing how to strike up a conversation, to being able to think critically, listen deeply, and move forward without necessarily having consensus. They also consider the strengths and limitations of insider versus outsider perspectives, and how the two can be brought together in partnership.
27 Jul 2026
S2 EP3: Taking a Pragmatic Approach
After the inner turmoil of the previous episode, Cissy, Duncan and Lucy-Mary discuss how to move forward with pragmatism. They consider what it means to balance ideals with reality, when to draw on outside expertise, and how to support community-led action without taking ownership. The episode also introduces the idea of building community-sufficiency, as opposed to self-sufficiency, and the importance of working collaboratively with others in the community development sector.
20 Jul 2026
S2 EP2: In the Turmoil
Our hosts return for a juicy discussion around some of the tensions and anxieties that come up when trying to grow participation culture. From knowing when to step forward and when to step back as a community weaver, to the challenges of trying to do something new when there is a pull towards familiar ways of working. They also discuss the need to be real about how society has changed over the years and the material pressures that impact how people feel able to participate.
13 Jul 2026
S2 EP1: How to Gain Traction
Hosts Cissy, Duncan and Lucy-Mary kick off season two by exploring one of the core principles of participation culture: relationships before ideas. They discuss how sometimes this means starting in places where people already gather, while other times, opportunities for connection might need to be created to help get the ball rolling. Tune in to hear them reflect on what it takes to build traction now that they are really ‘in the middle of it.’
5 Dec 2024
Episode 6: Metaphors That Are Emerging
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.
5 Dec 2024
Episode 5: What are we seeing as our principles meet practice
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.
28 Nov 2024
Episode 4: What a mapping exercise throws up
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.
28 Nov 2024
Episode 3: Out of our heads and into the streets
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.
21 Nov 2024
Episode 2: Slow Down to Move Fast
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!
21 Nov 2024
Episode 1: Let’s Get This Party Started
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.
Host of In the Middle of It?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
