In the Middle of It

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.’

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.

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.

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.

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.