Each week, we’ll explore important issues affecting our lives and communities, bringing together people with lived experience and experts with knowledge in the field. By placing real stories alongside research evidence, we hope to create honest conversations, challenge assumptions, and deepen understanding.

The podcast is facilitated by Dr Catherine Leonard (Ngāi Tahu), Research Director and co-director of Ihi Research. Catherine holds an Education Doctorate and brings more than two decades of experience across psychology, education, research, evaluation, and organisational leadership.

Her career has included working as a psychologist with tamariki and whānau, ten years as a senior university lecturer, and serving as Chief Executive of Te Tapuae o Rehua, a subsidiary of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. Since 2014, Catherine has led research and evaluation across wellbeing, Whānau Ora, family harm, education, social services, and community-led change.

Her expertise in kaupapa Māori evaluation, qualitative research, and social-impact research brings a thoughtful and critical lens to every conversation.