Culture is more than something we inherit – it’s something we create, question, and carry forward.Host Neisau Tuidraki (Kokonati Talk, Vosa) sits down with Isabella Naiduki (Digressions of a Fijian) and Talica Tamanitoakula and Christine Aukusitino (Two Brownish Girls) for a talanoa on arts and culture as identity, resistance, and record‑keeping.

Moving across diasporic experience, taboo topics, and creative practice, the episode unpacks stereotypes, cultural appropriation versus appreciation, and what it means to make Pacific culture visible – and accountable – through audio storytelling. Podcasting emerges as a way to document change, preserve voices and family histories, and create space for Pacific women’s stories in a male‑dominated podcast landscape.

It’s a reminder of the power of telling our own stories – for our families, our communities and those who come after us.

Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @betweenthewavespod or email us at betweenthewavespod@proton.me

Between the Waves is co-created by Mere Nailatikau, Elvina Ogil, Kalani Reyes, Arieta Tora Rika, Neisau Tuidraki and Heather Jarvis, as part of doctoral research supported by the University of Tasmania.

It is recorded and published from the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, in Naarm (Melbourne) Australia, and we pay our respects to Elders, Past and Present.

Our theme music is by Tropic Thunda and graphic design by Kitiana of Dua Studio.

This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Institutional funding can open doors — but who controls the story once you walk through them? Host Mere Nailatikau (Vosa S2) brings together Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson (An Impossible Choice), Neisau Tuidraki, and the Mama Ts — Katrina Ma'u Fatiaki and Talita Tu'ipulotu-Kefu (Vosa S3) — for a talanoa about the realities of collaborating with institutions like The Guardian and the World Bank while keeping Pacific voices, values, and editorial freedom at the centre. They share the negotiations, the pushback, and the moments where holding the line mattered. Essential listening for anyone navigating the space between funding and authenticity.

Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @betweenthewavespod or email us at betweenthewavespod@proton.me

Between the Waves is co-created by Mere Nailatikau, Elvina Ogil, Kalani Reyes, Arieta Tora Rika, Neisau Tuidraki and Heather Jarvis, as part of doctoral research supported by the University of Tasmania.

It is recorded and published from the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, in Naarm (Melbourne) Australia, and we pay our respects to Elders, Past and Present.

Our theme music is by Tropic Thunda. and graphic design by Kitiana of Dua Studio.

This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Distance doesn't dilute your story — sometimes it sharpens it. Host Arieta Tora Rika (Vosa, Sydney) connects with Dr. Mere Tari Sovick (Coming to the Mat, Seattle USA) and Amy Maslen Miller (Samoan Scientist, Aotearoa NZ) to talk about what drives Pacific women in diaspora to pick up the mic, and what happens when their podcasts become resources for schools, universities, and communities hungry for Pacific perspectives. From STEM representation to menopause, traditional knowledge and doing your research, they cover the ground that isn't being covered anywhere else. Their advice? Define your why, pick up your phone, and don't wait until you feel ready. Oh - and record your elders while you can.

Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @betweenthewavespod or email us at betweenthewavespod@proton.me

Between the Waves is co-created by Mere Nailatikau, Elvina Ogil, Kalani Reyes, Arieta Tora Rika, Neisau Tuidraki and Heather Jarvis, as part of doctoral research supported by the University of Tasmania.

It is recorded and published from the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, in Naarm (Melbourne) Australia, and we pay our respects to Elders, past and present.

Our theme music is by Tropic Thunda. and graphic design by Kitiana of Dua Studio.

This podcast is powered by Pinecast.