Grey Areas with Petra Bagust

Join me as I sit down with the delightful Professor Bev Lawton, a trailblazing advocate for women's health, who shares her insights into menopause, cervical cancer prevention and endometriosis. From her early days as a GP in Newtown, Wellington, Bev highlights the importance of evidence-based knowledge and the need for a stronger focus on women's health. Bev brings such warmth and optimism to the topic of menopause, encouraging us to see it as a natural, manageable transition rather than a burden. She discusses her experience as a doctor and the importance of providing women with balanced information so we can make decisions that truly benefit our health and well-being. We delve into the exciting science of the HPV vaccine and how it’s helping to prevent cervical and other cancers. Bev explains why accessible screening is critical, sharing the success of New Zealand's new HPV self-screening program, which empowers women to take charge of their health in a more comfortable, private and accessible way. This episode is packed with insights, laughter, and actionable advice. I hope it leaves you feeling informed and motivated to advocate for yourself and others, whether it’s by understanding your own health better or supporting initiatives to close the chapter on cervical cancer. To become part of the story, head to endcervicalcancer.org.nz! Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

Fresh from a work out Dr Stacy Sims joins me for a deep dive into the specific ways women need to move our bodies as we age. A trailblazer in the science of female physiology, Stacy challenges the traditional ‘calories in, calories out’ mindset – why it can be counterproductive and how popular fitness trends often ignore the distinct needs of women, especially through perimenopause and menopause! Stacy explains how our bodies change as hormone levels fluctuate in midlife, affecting everything from muscle strength to cognitive function. She shares why it's essential to focus on resistance training and high-intensity exercise to preserve muscle quality, bone health, and even brain function. We tackle the fear of ‘bulking up’ with weight training, and the benefits of challenging the body with high intensity movement that promotes longevity. What I love about Stacy’s approach is her emphasis on creating a sustainable, life-enhancing routine rather than a quick-fix workout regimen.  Join us as we explore practical, empowering ways to stay strong, mentally sharp, and energised – no gym membership required! Plus, Kirstien Taylor from Generate joins me to discuss financial fitness and how, just like physical movement, small steps now can pay dividends later in life. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker. Disclaimer: No part of this podcast is intended as financial advice; it is intended as general information only. For more information about the Generate KiwiSaver Scheme see their Product Disclosure Statement at generatekiwisaver.co.nz/pds. The issuer of the scheme is Generate Investment Management Limited. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.

Today I’m joined by three extraordinary and radically different women who consider each other family. Each in a different decade of life – their 50s, 60s, and 70s – Jackie Clarke, Tina Cross, and Suzanne Lynch have performed together for the past two decades as The Lady Killers, and they’re still going strong. Fresh off their DIVAS! tour to sold out venues around New Zealand, we sit down to discuss music, ageing, and friendship. The stories these wāhine toa share are filled with hard-won wisdom and riotous laughter that beckons us to grab hold of every stage of life with curiosity, compassion and camaraderie whether we vote the same way or not.  Tune in as we tackle menopause, breaking down stereotypes, the perpetual pressure to present perfectly (trying saying that fast), and the vital importance of supporting one another through it all! Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

  In this episode, I sit down with psychologist, author, and menopause researcher Dr Hillary McBride to explore what it means to truly come home to our bodies - to treat them like a best friend. Hillary’s work spans critical topics like trauma, eating disorders, and women's health, with a particular focus on menopause as a transformative experience. Through her books, The Wisdom of Your Body and Practices for Embodied Living, Hillary advocates for a reconnection with our bodies, inviting us to listen to, honour, and celebrate our physical selves. Using Hillary’s vivid metaphor of our body as a home, we discuss the absurdity of ‘living on the front lawn’ and basing our worth on this external perspective. She encourages us to find our way back inside the home and make the most of the rich experiences to be found within. Hillary champions supportive environments where women can share their experiences free from judgement - her research demonstrates the positive and practical impact of women talking about menopause with each other… this information is too good not to share - come and sit with this wise soul who loves helping women find safety and solace in our very own bodies! Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

The tide is rising toward Megan’s 50th birthday, and we surf the currents of childhood memories to uncover how mermaids, like the best stories, delight us with their symbolic depth. We reflect on my relationship with my mother, navigating the murky waters between closeness and independence. Megan shares how her mother transformed into an exuberant grandmother, becoming a lighthouse guiding her toward metamorphosis despite her own unfulfilled dreams. We wade into the depths of parenting and self-love, exploring the complexities of aging amid impossible societal expectations. This episode rides the wave of generational bonds that, while often frustrating, anchor us. As our conversation ebbs and flows through themes of self-acceptance and re-enchantment, we question conventional metrics of success and the power of ‘voice’ in shaping our narratives. Splashing through literature and art, we celebrate the significance of community and meaningful connections, steering us toward a more magical sense of purpose. Join us as we surf these enchanting waves together! Song Credit: Korimako, performed by Aro, written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker, published by Songbroker.

There were three things Susie Ferguson was never going to do; climb Mt Everest, run a marathon or write a book. However a serendipitous podcast interview with my good friend Frank nudged her to capture her experiences as a war correspondent, radio journalist and woman - the result is "Bloody Minded."  Susie shares her experiences of being bullied and even publicly shamed by a teacher while navigating the tricky dynamics of an all-girls school.  Her candid reflections on enduring undiagnosed endometriosis while reporting from Iraq, display her resilience and humour.  From her love story with husband Lee, to the intense bonds formed in war zones,and the challenges of transitioning into motherhood, Susie’s book is moving and memorable. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of adaptability, determination, and the bonds that define our lives. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

I sit down with the delightful Nici Wickes, a beloved cookbook author with a talent for making culinary adventures accessible and joyful, as she shares her wisdom on no-fuss cooking, building confidence in and out of the kitchen, and her latest book ‘More from A Quiet Kitchen.’ We tackle body image and health, confronting societal expectations, and shifting our focus from our appearance to our wellbeing along the journey to ageing with self-acceptance. Nici also gets real about prioritising mental health as we explore themes of solitude, self-expression, and the serenity found in cooking for oneself.  Whether it's in the kitchen, navigating boundaries, or finding peace in the chaos, this conversation is a heartfelt invitation to celebrate ourselves and savour some of life’s simplest pleasures. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

Join us for the first episode of Grey Areas Season 6 as we sit down with award-winning journalist, doco-maker and loveable rogue Patrick Gower to discuss his unfiltered memoir, This Is the F#$%ing News. In this candid conversation, Paddy gets vulnerable about the toxic cocktail of alcoholism, bullying and work addiction that brought about a mental breakdown – and would ultimately lead him to embrace authenticity and give up the booze for good. Having overcome inner turmoil and his self-described “massive ego”, Paddy shares how he has turned his darkest moments into a source of purpose. His story is a testament to the power of confronting personal demons and emerging stronger on the other side. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

Kia ora! I'm Petra, and welcome to Grey Areas, back for its sixth season. We're diving deep into the conversations that matter—those tricky, often unspoken topics that can powerfully shape our lives. Throughout this season, I sit down with incredible New Zealanders who aren't afraid to tackle the tough stuff. We explore subjects like endometriosis, our complex relationships with our bodies, singleness, loneliness, and the inner dialogue we all have—sometimes critical, sometimes empowering. I'm excited to bring you conversations with amazing guests, including journalist Paddy Gower, broadcaster Susie Ferguson, and beloved cook and author Nici Wickes.  Plus we'll look ahead to life's next chapters—beyond the hormones and emotional turbulence—asking ourselves, "What does it mean to be retirement-ready?" and "What do we want from the next season of our lives?" Because we all know it's about more than just money, (even though that helps!) This season, we're also welcoming our first international guest, Dr. Hillary McBride, who will share her wisdom on how we can reconnect with our bodies in meaningful ways. Creating Grey Areas is some of the most fulfilling work of my life, and I'm so grateful to have you on this journey with me. Together, we have the opportunity to engage in conversations that just might spark revolutionary thinking. So come, join me around this virtual campfire as we launch Season 6. New episodes drop weekly starting October 3rd on rova or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Getting up at stupid-o’clock every weekday morning to perform in front of the nation requires a certain type of strength and stamina. Add perimenopause to the pressure cooker of live television and you’ve got yourself a potent cocktail of challenges. Part of Jenny-May Clarkson’s secret is the dynamic partnership she’s forged with her husband Dean. In this episode they share the story of their second-chance-at-love romance, and how their differences complement each other in raising twins, working hard, and navigating major life transitions. Jenny-May also shares about receiving her moko kauae (traditional Māori tattoo), and how understanding and embracing her heritage has invited her inner critic to take a back seat. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

Having children and becoming a mother is a huge part of our collective cultural script. When you’re single, the question is ‘when are you going to find someone?’ When you find someone, the question becomes ‘when are you having children?’ So what about the many women who don’t have children, either by choice, circumstance or because they’re unable to? Otherhood is a newly published book of essays on being childless, childfree and child-adjacent. Lil O’Brien and Kathryn van Beek are two of the editors of this anthology, which charts the challenges, joys and griefs that being without children brings, and has also inadvertently created space and a lovely community for people who aren’t mothers. Ka pai! Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

In a culture of unhealthy comparison and burdensome perfectionism, how do we cultivate an openness to getting it wrong? … Like, really get down and dirty with failure and understand how necessary it is for growth and basically learning anything at all. Dr Jin Russell’s intimidating bio reads like the ultimate perfectionist’s achievement list. She’s a Consultant Developmental Paediatrician at Starship Children’s Health and a researcher in public health, investigating the impact of poverty on children. She’s won clinical awards, competitive research grants, has multiple degrees including a PhD, and sits on several boards. She’s spoken publicly on behalf of vulnerable children. Oh, and she’s a mum – no biggie. Yet in spite of her achievements and accolades, she’s keenly interested in what failure can produce in us, and how to pursue excellence without being weighed down by the impossible pursuit of perfection. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

The world of investing has long been dominated by men, but did you know that the women who do invest typically do better than their male counterparts? Honestly, it’s never been easier with the technology now available to us, so let’s figure out what positive action we can take because the good news is it’s never too late to get amongst it. Victoria Harris is passionate about women taking control of their financial futures. Along with her podcast co-host, Sophie Hallwright, she founded Raising The Curve to help wāhine do just that. Later in the episode Kirstien Taylor from Generate Kiwisaver talks about the simple things that we can do now to better prepare ourselves for retirement. Check out Victoria and Sophie's podcast The Curve. Disclaimer: No part of this podcast is intended as financial advice; it is intended as general information only. For more information about the Generate KiwiSaver Scheme see their Product Disclosure Statement at generatekiwisaver.co.nz/pds. The issuer of the scheme is Generate Investment Management Limited. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

There are moments in time where issues that have lurked in the shadows reach a tipping point and break into the public consciousness. Now is such a time for neurodiversity and ADHD. We are ready for healthier, more embracing conversations about how different brains work. TV presenter and actor Sonia Gray is on a quest to make life better for neurodiverse children and their families since her own tempestuous journey with daughter Inez. Her experiences and research has also led to discovering some of the mysteries of her own brain and how she’s uniquely wired! This is personal. Sonia opens a window into the difficulty of raising neurodiverse children in a world that often doesn’t value difference, and explores the pain of being misunderstood. Sonia shares her public journey as an advocate, as well as her private journey towards loving self-acceptance. For more podcasts on the topic check out Sonia's own podcast series No Such Thing As Normal, as well as the ADHD episode of Are You Mental? by Mick Andrews. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

Open a refreshing window to the world of creativity with Dr. Selina Tusitala Marsh as we riff on creativity and poetry. Turns out you don’t have to give it up after high school. Selina, an accomplished poet, academic, and illustrator, shares profound insights and captivating tales from her journey, which includes becoming NZ’s official poet (aka Poet Laureate), an unconventional marriage break up, and being honoured as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. From the physicality of marathons to the tranquillity of walking, we discuss the evolution of our creative lives and the surprises ageing invites us into.  With her trademark wisdom and wit, Selina shares the transformational role of poetry in empowering Pasifika leaders and reflects on the expansive nature of creativity, such as making a cup of tea with love… does it taste any different? Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

Hot on the heels of launching her new book Evolving, Judy Bailey sat down with Petra to talk all things ageing. At 72 years old, Judy has a sparkle that's infectious. Her credentialed career as a journalist, along with her natural curiosity and sense of fun make her an ideal guide to navigate the landscape of ageing, and explore the latest research on how to do it well. It’s exciting to hear that since leaving television, Judy is having some of the most fulfilling years of her life! Naturally, they haven’t been without trials, including navigating her husband Chris’s cancer diagnosis. Be encouraged by Judy’s insights and enthusiasm and take meaningful action for your future now, knowing you can do it with a twinkle in your eye, throughout your golden years. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

We're kicking off Season 5 with our LIVE recording of a fun and fascinating panel discussion tackling pleasure, intimacy, and love in midlife and menopause with writer Niki Bezzant and relationship coach Meg Cowan. Niki Bezzant is a trained journalist whose book This Changes Everything: the honest guide to menopause and perimenopause has, for thousands of New Zealanders, shed light on the oddly overlooked experience of women and ageing. Diving into sexuality, intimacy and desire in her upcoming book The Everything Guide Niki tackles a raft of ‘sex myths for grown-ups’ and shows us we’re not alone in navigating the highs and lows of our sexual journeys. Meg Cowan is a sex & relationship coach who’s created The Couples Guide to Hotter Sex in 10 Days! and The Shame-free Sex Course, delivering empowering practical skills to people all around the world. Meg is pro-pleasure, practical and positive - and believes we can all find our way to magnificent sexual expression whatever our season. The night also featured a special musical appearance from Aro - the creators of the Grey Areas waiata/theme song Korimako. Catch Aro's brand new album out 19th April!

Kia ora! Petra here and we’re getting ready for Season 5! 5 feels like a milestone… off to school and all that, growing up literally - thanks for coming on this journey with me - hasn’t it been fun and also fascinating!?!  We have built up quite the collection of stories and questions to travel with us into our next season - hopefully with more compassion, humour and  courageous can-do. Let’s keep going!  Who would have thought we’d talk about vulval skin health, pelvic floors, boobs bones and all the things menopause! There is plenty left to yarn about, so many great stories to share and I hope that in sharing stories of our wonderful guests and their ‘grey areas’ - you feel more at home in your own skin, head and heart. This season I’m joined by more fabulous guests including authors Judy Bailey, Niki Bezzant and Selina Tusitala Marsh, presenter Sonia Gray and sex coach Meg Cowan. We go fossicking about in experiences of perfectionism and adult diagnosis of ADHD, take personal journeys into creativity, relationship changes like separation and even ageing on purpose, as well as a particular highlight of mine - talking about pleasure, intimacy and love in mid-life with two awesome wāhine - live on stage - that’s right we did a live event and I LOVED IT! So join me for Season 5 of Grey Areas with Petra Bagust! New episodes drop weekly from April 18th on rova, or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

The magic of female friendships is pretty undeniable - as is the role they play in shaping us. Join us for an inspiring kōrero with long-time BFFs, broadcaster Stacey Morrison and fashion designer Kiri Nathan, who have been the epitome of friendship for over 25 years. From their first meeting at the Smoke-Free Fashion Awards to navigating marriages, children, and their respective careers, their journey is a testament to the power of enduring, intentional friendship. Stacey and Kiri also share their thoughts on the importance of boundaries with friends, and being mindful of our energy and capacity. We also discuss the challenges of being vulnerable and learning to let go of the pursuit of perfection. P.S. Stacey was a guest in Season 2 of Grey Areas - check out her kōrero too! Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.

What does it take to become a legendary netball player? What's the journey like, and how does finding a new identity in a foreign land shape your life and an illustrious sporting career spanning over 20 years? Join me this episode for a kōrero with iconic netballer and Silver Fern, Irene Van Dyk. We hear about her experience as an immigrant athlete in New Zealand, her experience with the media, and the decisions she made around motherhood. Irene opens up about the conversation she had with Dame Noeline Taurua in the lead up to her retirement. She also has a message for all the parents of kids playing netball - tune in to hear it. Of course, we check in on how perimenopause is treating Irene and we get to hear Irene's famed laugh almost the entire conversation because oh, how we laughed!  P.S. Can't get enough? Dame Noeline Taurua was a guest on Season 03 of Grey Areas - have a listen to her episode too! Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker.