In this powerful and timely episode of The Hello Frequency Podcast, the wonderful Shawn and I explore what it means to live with empathy and responsibility in Aotearoa New Zealand, and beyond, indeed. We dive into shared histories and the concept of being consciously tangata tiriti, examining how each of us is both a guest and conscious contributor on this land. 

We talk about curating experiences and, perhaps more poignantly, curating empathy, which is, as Shawn eloquently puts it, “actively trying to meet someone where they are”. We reflect on what it looks like to be in our own shoes, while walking alongside others in theirs. And to recognise that when empathy feels difficult, finding common ground can open the door to deeper connection, particularly through the lens of whakawhanaungatanga, a sense of care and connection. 

At the same time, we acknowledge that empathy is not an unqualified good. When situations are unsafe, the priority must shift to finding safety. We also discuss why it matters not to slot people into homogenous buckets, and how offering the benefit of the doubt in moments of chaos invites humanity without ever risking harm. 

We dig into less-heard parts of Sri Lankan history, honouring stories that seldom surface. Shawn generously shares their experience of living with ADHD, helping us better understand neurodiversities and how they shape our ways of being, relating and advocating. By speaking about this openly, we take it out of the realm of pathology and back into humanity. 

Ultimately, we call for what we term radical empathy, a kindness that might unsettle some, that exists beyond the left/right binary, and that demands more of inclusive advocacy spaces than lip-service alone. It’s an episode about listening, walking along, stumbling, unlearning, and standing up together. 

We hope you’ll join us, bring your own authentic take on empathy, and practise it in the realities you navigate.