Soften Up Bro – Heemi Kapa-Kingi on the Māui Complex & Men’s Healing
Description
In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Heemi Kapa-Kingi, a tāne Māori dedicated to shifting the narrative around men’s wellbeing.
We dive into the concept of The Māui Complex – a framework Hemi describes as the relentless drive Māori men carry to be competent in every area of life, and the feelings of unworthiness that follow when they inevitably fall short.
Heemi also shares the heart behind his kaupapa “Soften Up Bro”, a direct challenge to the outdated mentality of “Harden Up.”
Together, we kōrero about:
✨ Emotional intelligence and getting out of our own way
✨ How physical and emotional pain are often linked
✨ The impact of unrealistic expectations on Māori men
✨ Practical, simple tools tāne can use to self-regulate and reconnect
✨ Why softness is not weakness — but a source of strength
This episode is a must-listen for tāne and whānau alike — it’s filled with wisdom, compassion, laughter and tangible ways to shift from survival to self-awareness.
BIG mihi to Hui Tāne for making this series possible!
🔗 Follow Heemi Kapa Kingi here https://www.instagram.com/tautoru.media/?hl=en
🔗 Follow Hui Tāne Updates: https://www.facebook.com/p/HUI-TĀNE-National-Māori-Mens-Mental-Health-Wellbeing-Conference-2025
🔗 Mental Health Support1737 – Need to Talk?📞 Call or text 1737 anytime. (NZ)
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