Writing

I live in Hamilton, a city on the Waikato River in the
heartland of Aotearoa-New Zealand

Recent Blogs

75 musical opportunities

75 musical opportunities

This is a list of some of the options for musicians.
The possibilities go way beyond “classical or pop music?” or “what instrument do you play?”
Each item uses a different range of skills and talents.
Which items draw your attention? What feels interesting?

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Hobby or hustle? The messy business of music and money, take one

Hobby or hustle? The messy business of music and money, take one

Music and money have an uneasy relationship, in a world where money is the measure of value. When I talk about what I do as a coach, the first question is: “is this for professional musicians?”
But I don’t think there’s a consistent divide between professional and amateur musicians. And music is also magical, transformational.

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Fun and fizzy ways into herbalism

Fun and fizzy ways into herbalism

Learning about herbalism is an enjoyable way to build connection with plants as well as creating more personal wellbeing. The range includes both clinical herbalists and practical home remedies.
In this blog I’m sharing some of my favourite fun and fascinating ways into herbalism.

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My friends the plants

My friends the plants

Having a personal connection with plants is crucially important to help each of us live well in challenging times.
Here are five amazing things that plants do for humans:
1. They feed us
2. They delight our senses
3. Nervous system support
4. Plants expand human consciousness
5. Plants can help us cope constructively with climate change.

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How to Start—and Stick With—a Personal Spiritual Practice

How to Start—and Stick With—a Personal Spiritual Practice

Do you long for a regular spiritual practice, but struggle to make it stick? You’re not alone. In this practical guide, I share the insights and practices that helped me build a meaningful personal routine—from compassionate meditation and sacred sound to nature connection and daily rituals. Whether you’re spiritual but not religious, or simply looking for ways to feel more grounded, you’ll find inspiration and encouragement to create a practice that truly supports you—every day.

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Nothing Sacred? A Spiritual Journey Beyond Belief

Nothing Sacred? A Spiritual Journey Beyond Belief

What does it mean to be spiritual without belonging to a religion? In this heartfelt blog post, I explore my journey from a secular scientific upbringing to a rich, personal mysticism shaped by nature, music, mental health, and deep ecology. I write candidly about what was once unspeakable in my family: soul, spirit, and the sacred. This is the first step in writing about the connection between music and soul.

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Strumbling in: music and friendship

Strumbling in: music and friendship

On Saturday afternoons, you’ll find me making music with my friends.
Our group is collectively known as the Strumbles.
It’s much more than a ukulele group. It’s musical play, friendship, a chance to use our voices collaboratively. And much more.
Our sweet spot is jamming together, in someone’s living room, on the back porch or at a party.

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Introducing a new modality: Wisewoman

Introducing a new modality: Wisewoman

In a world overflowing with information and complexity, sometimes we don’t need more data—we need wisdom. The Wisewoman modality offers grounded, confidential support based on life experience, not just expertise. It’s about helping others navigate challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether through listening, mentoring, or guiding decision-making, this approach empowers people to trust themselves. If this resonates with you, let’s talk.

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One magic day

One magic day

In New Zealand it’s spring. That’s the wrong season for Hallowe’en.
But, in our death defying, death-denying culture, a festival that celebrates and honours the dead is worth noticing
I think we can celebrate both Hallowe’en and spring.

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The worms are turning

The worms are turning

We can’t opt out of being part of the cycles of life and death.
For me, worm farming is an aspect of this.
It’s a small, hands-on gesture towards rewilding my kitchen, my household and my garden.
Worm farming is the kind of composting that works for me.
It’s an intriguing combination of grounding and humble and weird.

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