In this powerful and deeply human episode, I sit down with my dad to explore his story, from growing up disconnected from his Māori roots to finding spiritual meaning, healing from trauma and redefining what it means to be a man.

We talk about his childhood, the moment he truly felt connected to his culture and the messages he received about masculinity, leadership and identity.

He opens up about his experiences with addiction, the lessons he's learned along the way and his transition from a single army soldier to a husband, father and social worker.

This episode is raw, real and rich with wisdom.

It’s a conversation about pain, pride, presence, forgiveness and what he would say to the boy he used to be.

Content Warning:

This episode contains discussion of addiction, sexual abuse, violence, self-harm and pornography.

Please take care while listening.

If you’d like to contact Tiaki directly to share your feedback, you can email him at tiakileathers@xtra.co.nz

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