The Difference podcast
The Difference is a podcast by and for support workers in Aotearoa New Zealand's mental health and addiction sector. Hosted by Alexia Black, Project Lead at Te Pou, this four-episode series dives into the real experiences of support workers, sharing the stories of support workers with honesty, heart, and humour.
Each episode features authentic kōrero with a diverse range of guests - support workers, leaders, and those with lived experience - discussing the challenges and rewards of the role. From worker wellbeing and vicarious trauma to leadership, workforce retention, and reflective practice, The Difference explores the realities of support work with candour and hope.
This podcast is about connection, empowerment, and making a difference. Whether you're already in the workforce, managing a team, or considering a career in support work, these conversations will resonate, inspire, and remind you why this mahi matters.
Tune in for uplifting, insightful, and sometimes hilarious conversations that celebrate the incredible people making a difference every day in our workforce.
Listen to season one
Episode one
I didn’t go through all that for nothing | Using lived experience in your mahi with Izzy Young from Real and James Huata from Moana House.
Episode two
You can’t pour from an empty cup | Worker wellbeing and vicarious trauma with Jonathan Miller from Pathways.
Episode three
I had to dig deep | Reflective practice with Tashie Hoffman from Springhill Treatment Centre.
Episode four
The best job in the world | Leadership with Tremain Tauhinu from Mahitahi Trust.
Listen to season two
Episode one
Whānau - the biggest providers of mental health support | Whānau support with Jade Caulfield from Yellow Brick Road and Anne McGregor from Atareira.
Episode two
They still want to be seen; they still want to be heard | Supporting older people with Janeta Vasega (Vaka Tautua) and Lanie Palm (Equip).
Episode three
The job I've always wanted | Peer support workers in EDs with Dave Snell (Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora) and Hamish Bowker (Kites Trust).
Episode four
We need a village | Supporting parents with Margaret Vitale (Odyssey) and Bianca Taute (PADA and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora).
Episode five
Always do good… and if you can’t – at least learn from it | Ethics and boundaries with Josh Monson (Stepping Stones Trust) and Caro Swanson (Te Pou).
Episode six
See people for who they are | Support work from a cultural lens with Janifa Bhamji (Kāhui Tū Kaha) and Lydia Gafoi (Penina Trust).
