The Real Women Raw Stories radio show airs fortnightly on Wednesdays at 11 am on Plains FM 96.9.
This is a space where listeners can find relatability and strength in the face of life's challenges. Hear amazing true stories and be empowered by the knowledge that you are not alone.
At the end of each episode I ask the guests for their feel good songs. You can listen to their suggestions here on the Spotify playlist.
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Episode 1: Jess Mizzi - Body Dysmorphia
We're joined by Jess, a devoted Personal Trainer, who shares her journey beyond being a mother and wife. Jess bravely opens up about her past struggles, shedding light on body dysmorphia and ways to offer support. Join us as we explore this critical topic and foster a healthier relationship with our bodies.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses body dysmorphia, which may be sensitive for some listeners.
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Episode 2: Fariya Naseem - Journey to a New Life
In this episode we hear Fariya Naseem's inspiring journey to self-discovery. Born in India, Fariya boldly ventured alone to New Zealand in pursuit of a professional degree, leaving behind her family. Against all odds, she not only survived but thrived, fueled by a desire to break free from stereotype
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Episode 3: Annie Anderson - Baby Loss
Annie will discuss her non-fiction book, "Your Soul is Wintering," which is a raw and heartfelt account of her own journey through grief. Through the loss of their daughter Lilly, Annie's story of resilience shines even brighter, offering solace and strength to those navigating similar paths.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about grief and loss, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 4: Soosie Lucas - My experience with Domestic Violence
In this episode, Soosie opens up about her experiences with domestic violence, helping us understand how she found herself in this situation and emphasizing that it can happen to anyone. Her story sheds light on the reality of living through domestic violence and addresses the age-old question, "Why don't you just leave"?
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about domestic violence, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 5: Ruth Kenny - Suicide: When the helper needed help
Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Ruth Kenny, a devoted mother, loving wife, and former speaker at Real Women Raw Stories. Ruth’s life took a dark turn in June 2020 when she faced a severe mental health crisis and attempted suicide. Despite these challenges, Ruth's story is one of incredible resilience and hope.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 6: Michelle Emery - Resilience and Recovery
In this episode, we feature Michelle Emery, a mother of four and founder of Funkdafied Dance Club. Michelle's life changed dramatically after a severe accident, but her resilience and determination helped her overcome significant challenges. Join us to hear her inspiring story of recovery.
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Episode 7: Di Foster - Journey from Terminal Cancer to Thriving
In this episode, we welcome Di Foster, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 31 and faced terminal secondary cancer at 38. Defying the odds, Di followed her "three whispers of the heart" to live life fully. Now, 14 years later, her miraculous remission without medical intervention is a testament to her resilience. Tune in to hear Di's inspiring journey and her incredible story of survival and thriving.
Episode 8: Julie Zareifh - Resilience in the Face of Loss
Join us as we chat with Julie Zarifeh, a clinical psychologist who combines extensive academic knowledge with personal experience of resilience. After losing her husband and son within weeks of each other in 2017, Julie shares invaluable insights into the power of resilience and how she applied her skills to navigate these real-life challenges. Tune in to hear her compelling story and learn practical strategies for building resilience in your own life.
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Episode 9: Debbs Murray - Entrapped to Enlightened - A Journey of Family Violence Survival
Today, we’re joined by Debbs Murray, a māmā of four and a survivor of family violence. With over 20 years in the field, Debbs has transformed her painful experiences into a powerful story of strength and hope.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about domestic violence, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 10: Sarah Platt - Being dyslexic, and late diagnosed autistic and ADHD
Sarah Platt, a full-time New Zealand artist with a background in primary school teaching. In 2021, Sarah published her book "On Being Dyslexic," detailing her personal journey through the New Zealand schooling system and her perseverance in becoming a teacher.
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Episode 11: Sarah Mizzi - Motherhood. The chapters that aren't in the manual
Sarah Mizzi will share her inspiring journey of rediscovering joy and hope in the face of profound loss. After finding love with Nick in her late thirties, they welcomed their son Stanley and were eagerly expecting their daughter Sophia. But life took an unexpected turn, and Sarah faced unimaginable heartbreak. Despite it all, she found a way to heal and move forward.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses baby loss and infertility, which may be sensitive for some listeners.
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Episode 12: Victoria Hudson-Craig - Cancer in my heart
Today, we’re joined by Victoria, who was diagnosed with melanoma at 33. After surgery, she was advised against pregnancy but defied the odds and had her daughter Ruby at 37. Soon after, she discovered untreatable heart tumors. Despite relying on unfunded medication, Victoria remains active and hopeful. Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and the determination to inspire others.
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Episode 13: Jodie Shaw - My Journey to Solo Motherhood
Today we're joined by Jodie Shaw, an inspiring woman who made the brave decision to have a baby on her own. She'll share her experience of navigating the emotional and practical aspects of this life-changing decision, the challenges she faced, and the joy she found in becoming a mother. Join us as Jodie opens up about her unique path to parenthood and offers insights for others considering this journey.
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Episode 14: Kitty Rush - Losing my Mum and Sister just 14 months apart
Today, we are honored to have Kitty Rush join us, someone who has experienced profound personal loss. At just 20 years old, Kitty tragically lost her mother, and 14 months later, she endured the heartbreak of losing her sister. We’ll explore Kitty’s story of resilience, how she coped with the weight of grief at a young age, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Episode 15: Kellee Berry - Mastering Your Mind: Unlocking Potential
Today, we have a special guest, Kellee Berry, a renowned mind coach who has helped countless individuals transform their thinking, break through mental barriers, and unlock their true potential. In this episode, we’ll dive into Kellee’s approach to coaching, the key mindset shifts that lead to personal growth, and how to cultivate mental resilience in your everyday life. Stay tuned for a conversation that will leave you feeling motivated and ready to take control of your own mind!
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Episode 16: Lisa Tregenza: Trauma Survivor to Trauma Coach
Today on Real Women Raw Stories, we’re joined by Lisa, an inspiring woman who has turned her personal experience with family harm into a powerful mission to support trauma survivors. Through resilience and determination, she rebuilt her life and became a successful businesswoman. Lisa is here to share her incredible journey, the challenges she overcame, and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about trauma, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 17: Healing and growth with Sonja Courtis
Today, we’re joined by Sonja Courtis, a woman who turned personal trauma into a mission to empower others. After facing profound challenges, Sonja rebuilt her life with purpose and she now helps women reclaim their power and create lives they love.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 18: Moira Murphy: The Story Behind Real Women Raw Stories
Today, we introduce you to Moira Murphy, a woman passionate about sharing authentic stories and creating a safe space for exploring life’s toughest moments. Moira is the visionary behind Real Women Raw Stories, a platform that celebrates resilience, vulnerability, and transformation. In this episode, Moira shares her journey, the inspiration behind the event, and how it all came to be.
Listen here on Spotify and Apple
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about domestic violence, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
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Episode 19: Anna McVeigh - Healing Trauma Through Self and Somatic Care
Today, we welcome Anna McVeigh, a counsellor, therapist, and group facilitator based in South Brighton, Christchurch. With a holistic approach, Anna integrates mind, body, and spirit in her work, drawing on a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including Narrative Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, and Havening. Join us as Anna shares her journey, her therapeutic approach, and insights into the transformative power of holistic healing.
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Episode 20: Ellen Petersen - My journey with Gastric Sleeve Surgery in 2020
Today, we’re joined by Ellen Petersen, who shares her inspiring journey of transformation after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery in 2020.Ellen’s story is one of courage, self-discovery, and reclaiming her health. Let’s dive into her powerful experience and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
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Episode 21: Philly McMeekan - My journey with Alopecia
In this episode of Real Women Raw Stories, we sit down with Philly McMeekan to discuss her journey with alopecia. She shares what alopecia is, how it presents, and the emotional challenges that come with hair loss. Philly opens up about misconceptions, the treatments available, and how she has navigated confidence in a world that often misunderstands the condition.
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Episode 22: Christa Jellyman – My journey with Cushing’s Disease
In this episode, Christa shares her journey from being an active young woman to navigating the challenges of Cushing's disease. After years of unexplained symptoms, she finally got the diagnosis she'd been searching for.
Christa opens up about her diagnosis, the treatments she underwent, and how she pursued her dream of motherhood. Through resilience, she has rebuilt her life, offering an inspiring story of perseverance and hope.
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Episode 23: Kathy Guidi – My journey from Finance in San Francisco to somatic practice in New Zealand
Welcome to Real Women Raw Stories. Today, we’re joined by Kathy, who traded a high-powered finance career in San Francisco for a new life in New Zealand as a somatic practitioner. We’ll explore what sparked this dramatic shift, how it shaped her journey, and what somatic practice really is. If you’ve ever considered a big life change, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!
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Episode 24: Jessie Johnson - Building a Village: How Dew Drops Supports New Parents
In this episode, we learn about Dew Drops, a service dedicated to supporting new parents in New Zealand. Founder Jessie Johnson shares how her personal experiences shaped her passion for helping families navigate the challenges of early parenthood. We’ll explore the essential services Dew Drops provides, the struggles many parents face today, and Jessie’s vision for the future of parent support. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building a strong village for new families.
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Episode 25: Shell Withers - A case of the ole bipolar
Today, we’re joined by Shell Withers, who was unexpectedly diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 35.
She shares her journey and the realities of living with bipolar disorder—the stigma, the challenges of treatment, and what she wishes more people understood. Let’s dive in.