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The Kiwi and the Emu

The Kiwi and the Emu

By Elise Lonsdale & Carolyn Peat

Carolyn from Auckland New Zealand and Elise from Melbourne Australia interview guests to get a Kiwi and an Aussie blindness perspective during the COVID-19 Lockdown 2020. #Coronavirus #Lockdown #COVID-19 Blind #VisionImpaired #NewZealand #Australia #Disability #Podcast #BlindPodcast #CarolynPeat #EliseLonsdale #Lonsdale #DATAAustalasia #LonsdaleMedia #Inclusion #Diversity
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Currently playing episode

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 12 - Toni Sharp - Taupo NZ

The Kiwi and the EmuJun 09, 2020

00:00
57:09
The Kiwi & the Emu S2 - E5 Karen & Murray

The Kiwi & the Emu S2 - E5 Karen & Murray

The Kiwi and the Emu Series 2 episode 4 - Sue Dymond Part 2

Come and join Carolyn and Elise as they interview Karen Plimmer and Murray Peat from Auckland who also appeared on this program in 2020.

Two legally blind parents now bringing up a 4 and a half-year-old daughter, Emily,  who is very vibrant. They discuss support workers, childcare, their plans for school and what it is like to have a young daughter and what it is like for that young daughter to have two Blind in low vision parents.

Transport is often an issue and managing Uber drivers can often be an issue for both parent and child, especially when the Uber driver doesn't know the difference between left and right. 


They also discuss support workers and how helpful they are to that normal every day life particularly when taking Emily out. 

Since our last discussion, both Karen and Murray have full-time and rewarding new jobs and enjoy the challenges and responsibilities that come with their new positions.

If you would like to contribute to our podcast or be a guest, (either new or a returning guest), please send an email to kiwiemu@dataaustralasia.com.au and we look forward to your contributions. 

You can find us at the link above, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, online and wherever you get your favourite podcasts. 

Aug 20, 202357:50
The Kiwi and the Emu - S2 - E4 Sue Dymond - Part 2

The Kiwi and the Emu - S2 - E4 Sue Dymond - Part 2

The Kiwi and the Emu Series 2 episode 4 - Sue Dymond Part 2

This is Part two of the interview with Sue Dymond, a lovely lady who Elise met when she first went to Ringwood Toastmasters in February 2023.

Sue has a wealth of information regarding disability, disability rights and advocacy, the Australian National disability insurance scheme, Toastmasters and has also authored her own book. She also has a daughter with Down syndrome, Chloe.

Impart two, Sue talks about her book, more about her daughter and about people's attitude towards disability in general. 

If you would like to contribute to our podcast or be a guest, (either new or a returning guest), please send an email to kiwiemu@dataaustralasia.com.au and we look forward to your contributions. 


Aug 06, 202352:26
The Ki Wi and the Emu S2 - E03 Sue Dymond Part 1

The Ki Wi and the Emu S2 - E03 Sue Dymond Part 1

The Kiwi and the Emu Series 2 episode 3 - Sue Dymond Part 1

Carolyn and Elise are back to interview Sue Dymond, a lovely lady who Elise met when she first went to Ringwood Toastmasters in February 2023.

Sue has a wealth of information regarding disability, disability rights and advocacy, the Australian National disability insurance scheme, Toastmasters and has also authored her own book. She also has a daughter with Down syndrome, Chloe.

Sue is incredibly open about her life and talks more about that in the second part of our interview including more about Chloe.

Sue runs a business that Office support coordination and advocacy services to people who are on the NDIS.

Due the vast content in this interview, we agreed to break this episode in to two parts, so the “What Cheses me Off”, “What Intrigues Me” and the “Technology” segments will appear in part two. We will publish part two of this very informative interview before the end of July, so stay tuned!

If you would like to contribute to our podcast or be a guest, (either new or a returning guest), please send an email to kiwiemu@dataaustralasia.com.au and we look forward to your contributions. 


You can find us at the link above, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, online and wherever you get your favourite podcasts. 

Jul 24, 202301:02:44
The Kiwi and the Emu - S2 - Ep 02 - Hellen Keller

The Kiwi and the Emu - S2 - Ep 02 - Hellen Keller

The Kiwi and the Emu Series 2 episode 2 - Helen Keller

Carolyn and Elise are back together to profile Helen Keller just after her birthday in June.

They also discussed Toastmasters, the pathways program, and its lack of accessibility to people who are blind and have low vision, hybrid meetings and Club officer training.

In New Zealand, they have just changed many laws and regulations pertaining to single use plastic bags and containers.

Elise and Carolyn also discussed the independent NDIS provider movement and had a conversation about the changes with a Voice Dream Reader, scanner, and writer.

Because the discussion was around such a well-known advocate and activist, Helen Keller. we led into a conversation about the suffragettes in the women's suffrage movement in general.

Looking forward to a speedy recovery with your Voice Carolyn and you can kiss that frog goodbye, you may get lucky and he will turn in to a handsome prince for you.

If you would like to contribute to our podcast or be a guest, (either new or a returning guest), please send an email to kiwiemu@dataaustralasia.com.au and we look forward to your contributions. 


You can find us at Spotify, Apple Podcasts, online and wherever you get your favourite podcasts. 


Jul 05, 202345:53
The Kiwi and the Emu Series 2 - Welcome Back
Jun 07, 202334:41
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 36 - Helen Watley - Belen New Mexico USA

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 36 - Helen Watley - Belen New Mexico USA

What is it like to have the Coronavirus? In this special addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 36 you’ll find out! We have our first guest on the show from the United States of America, Helen Watley from Belen New Mexico

Helen has a job with a company and also runs her own business, both of which she now does from home because she cannot get in to Albuquerque around 36 miles from her actual home, no left turn here, LOL!

Helen talks about the lockdowns in New Mexico and discusses what is happening in the rest of the United States.

She also talks about her own experience with Coronavirus, (COVID-19), and how it also affected her husband and young son

Join us for the next 1 hour and 40 minutes where you’ll be truly captivated in what Helen has to tell us.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Nov 28, 202001:40:17
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 35 - Bronwen Scott - Melbourne VIC Part II

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 35 - Bronwen Scott - Melbourne VIC Part II

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 35, It is when we have the second part of our two part interview with Dr Bronwen Scott.

Bronwen is an orientation and mobility specialist and also works in the field of cortical vision impairment.

Bronwyn also shared with us her experiences working with people both before and during the recent COVID-19 lockdowns in Melbourne and around Australia.

In this episode, Bronwyn goes into the more commonly known aspects of orientation and mobility and how that changed for her during the recent lockdowns.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Nov 22, 202001:13:12
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 34 - Bronwen Scott - Melbourne VIC Part I

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 34 - Bronwen Scott - Melbourne VIC Part I

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 34, It is both our first two part episode and Elise does an outside Broadcast from the beach at Dromana and takes a walk along the cafe and restaurant strip. Using her make-believe futuristic Apple Watch, she then teleports back to the porch at Mumma Kazz’s place to continue the Interview where Carolyn and her speak with Dr Bronwen Scott who is an orientation and mobility specialist and also works in the field of cortical vision impairment.

Bronwyn also shared with us her experiences working with people both before and during the recent COVID-19 lockdowns in Melbourne and around Australia.

In the second part of this interview, Bronwyn goes into the more commonly known aspects of orientation and mobility and how that changed for her also during the recent lockdowns. That comes up in our next episode which will be episode 35 and part 2 of this discussion.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Nov 17, 202001:12:02
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 33 - Jonathan Godfrey - Palmerston North NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 33 - Jonathan Godfrey - Palmerston North NZ

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 33, We travel to Palmerston North New Zealand and speak with Dr Jonathan Godfrey, National president of blind citizens New Zealand and a lecturer in statistics at Massey University.

Jonathan loves talking about his hobby farm, he shares with us many fun anecdotes around how they had to do things different on the farm.

Jonathan also shares with us how the stage 4 lockdown affected him and his family back in March and April 2020.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Nov 13, 202001:29:14
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 32 - Kate & Joshua - Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 32 - Kate & Joshua - Melbourne VIC

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 32, We travel to Melbourne’s north west and talk to Kate and Joshua Grogan. Kate is the supporting Mum and Josh is our first school aged student to appear as a guest on our show.

As you can imagine, there are certain challenges as a vision impaired student in their first year at high school. So, adding the challenges of being homeschooled and surviving the COVID-19 lockdowns in Victoria makes for a very interesting conversation.

Josh talks about his technology, the support he gets from both his mother and support person at school, his vision impairment and how this affects his learning and research skills.

Despite the challenges, Josh enjoys good marks at school and enjoys learning.

Don't forget to stay tuned for the lighter moment section but with Josh and his Mum, the whole show is a lot of fun, so please enjoy.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Sep 29, 202001:10:01
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 31 - Nerissa & Ian - Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 31 - Nerissa & Ian - Melbourne VIC

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 31, We speak with Nerissa and Ian Cassell who are Elise and Karen’s Auntie and Uncle who an’t , that is to say that everybody who is a grownup who comes over to your house when you were three and four years old had to be called “Aunty and Uncle” as that is what we did in those days.

Karen Lonsdale, AKA ‘Mumma Kazz Lonsdale”, is back to help her sister, Elise Lonsdale and her co-host Carolyn Peat to interview these two very special people in their lives.

Nerissa and Ian are from Melbourne, however before COVID-19 would often travel in there Mobile home to many interesting places around Australia as they are Grey nomads and all their own children are now off their hands.

Nerissa and Ian had a great social life prior to COVID-19 and frequented many pubs in the south eastern suburbs of Melbourne participating in trivia. They also enjoyed many fish and chip nights at various friends places including Elise’s home in Ringwood and partys at Mumma Kazz’s now world famous front porch.

As a person who has low vision, Nerissa also talks about a highly visual game that she plays on her iPad called “SongPop”, which due to changes in the modern versions of that app is becoming increasingly difficult to play.

This is quite a colourful episode as Elise and Nerissa reminisce about the first day they met when Elise was only four years old. They talk about that colourful journey speech that Elise did in Toastmasters which is also available on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/54zx-7G vSLQ

Don't forget to stay tuned for the lighter moment section.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Sep 24, 202001:24:05
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 30 - Carolyn Peat - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 30 - Carolyn Peat - Auckland NZ

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu, We have made it all the way to Episode 30, where we return to Auckland NZ and interview one of our own, Carolyn Peat. Karen Lonsdale, AKA, Mumma Kazz Lonsdale returns this time in a fuller role to help her sister, Elise Lonsdale to Interview Carolyn.

Carolyn describes her role working on a review committee, her role at BlindCitizens New Zealand and dining in the dark. She also tells us what life was like prior to the Coronavirus.

Just before the Coronavirus pandemic really got underway, her father had an accident which required many months in hospital and much rehabilitation. Carolyn also discusses how this impacted on her family, visiting hours, access to her father and how the restrictions affected him.

Don't forget to stay tuned for the lighter moment section.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Sep 11, 202001:17:06
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 29 - Adam Morris - Coffs Harbur NSW

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 29 - Adam Morris - Coffs Harbur NSW

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 29, We go to the mid north coast of New South Wales to talk to the blind Australian of the year, Adam Morris.

Adam describes what his life was like for him and his wife, Di prior to the Coronavirus and the shutdowns in New South Wales. He describes how things are now in NSW. Adam also talks about his interest in Judo.

Don't forget to stay tuned for the lighter moment section.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Sep 07, 202047:53
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 28 - Maggie Rush - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 28 - Maggie Rush - Auckland NZ

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 28, We speak with Maggie Rush from West Auckland New Zealand.

Maggie describes her life prior to COVID-19, talks about her craft group, blindness groups that she attended and how the lockdowns in NZ have affected her family and friends.

Maggie is a lot of fun to talk to and I'm sure you will agree, this will be a great episode. Please enjoy.

Don't forget to stay tuned for the lighter moment section.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found.

Sep 01, 202001:19:03
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 27 - Elise Lonsdale - Dromana VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 27 - Elise Lonsdale - Dromana VIC

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 27, It is Elise Lonsdale’s turn to sit in the Corona Chair and face her own Niece, Madison Rendall and her co-host Carolyn Peat.

When it was announced in July that Melbourne was going into a second stage three lockdown, Elise accepted an invitation from her sister, Karen Lonsdale to spend that time with her and the rest of the family rather than be on her own.

Elise talks about the way she feels about the second lockdown, the way government have handled it and how much she appreciates spending time with the family and reacquainting herself and family values.

Who gets to pack the dishwasher, who cooks the meals, who shouts fish-n-chips on a Friday night and how much homeschooling gets done?

In the Lighter Moments segment near the end, Madison gets to discuss her love of hair, makeup, fashion and clothing and how much she appreciates having her Aunty Elise around the home to help with her homeschooling.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Aug 24, 202058:52
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 26 - Maria Chapman - Wollongong - NSW

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 26 - Maria Chapman - Wollongong - NSW

In this addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 26, we go to Wollongong New South Wales to talk to Maria Chapman. Maria looks after her elderly Italian mother and her indigenous husband. She discusses the impact on her mother's social life at the local RSL, shopping centre and other activities as well as how it has affected her husband’s indigenous support group.

Maria also discusses the impact on her own personal life as well as her fears of how the virus may affect her two love ones who are living in the same house as her if they were to contract it.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Aug 22, 202001:02:34
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 25 - Lana and Don Thompson - Perth WA

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 25 - Lana and Don Thompson - Perth WA

In this special addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 25, we talk to Lana and Don Thompson from Perth WA.

They tell us about the things they did before the Perth shutdown in march and how they have emerged. Western Australia is enjoying relatively normal life compare to other parts of Australia right now.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Aug 17, 202001:27:13
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 24 - Mary Schnackenberg & Clive Lansink - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 24 - Mary Schnackenberg & Clive Lansink - Auckland NZ

In this special addition of the Kiwi and the emu,Episode 24, we talk to Mary Schnackenberg & Clive Lansink from Auckland NZ.

They tell us about Mary’s Braille transcription business, the advocacy that they do for people and how they were supporting people to ask the right questions when it comes to disability support through the level four lockdown in New Zealand.

Clive and Elise discussed Law and border closures and there is always plenty of talk about guidedogs.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Aug 10, 202001:25:41
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 23 - Kylee Maloney - Palmerston North NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 23 - Kylee Maloney - Palmerston North NZ

Episode 23 of the Kiwi and the Emu.

In episode 23 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we travel to Palmerston North New Zealand and speak with Kylee Maloney who is an award-winning broadcaster, public speaker and musician. 

Kylee discusses how the level four lockdown affected her and her household. 

She gives us an insight into depression and how her confidence has been knocked around when travelling and attending noisy events such as her trivia nights.

Depression is a serious factor when it comes to blind people and the way the various COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions have affected our blindness and low vision community.

Kylee also discusses her experiences with Toastmasters and how going Online to Toastmasters meetings and contests have not been the best option for her.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision and now on occasion cited guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.   

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.



Jul 27, 202001:00:47
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 22 - Lea Nagel - Statewide Vision Resource Centre

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 22 - Lea Nagel - Statewide Vision Resource Centre

Episode 22 of the Kiwi and the Emu.

This is the first episode where we speak with somebody who is not actually blind or has low vision. Lea Nagel from Victoria’s Statewide Vision Resource Centre, SVRC, speaks to us on how their flagship support skills program has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lea talks to us about the lead up to the first Victorian lockdown and how they needed to move the Support Skills Program from a weekly event where kids who are blind or have low vision attend the centre to an online version.

The online version of the Support Skills Program has worked and Lee speaks to us how this was achieved and some of the fun and lighter moments during the transition. She also praisers both staff and students of the Support Skills Program on how well everyone has enjoyed the experience and how much people have learned.

The topic of Braille and literacy also comes into the conversation and it is too SVRC’s Credit that Braille is such an important part of their contribution to the lives of School age children who are blind or have low vision in the state of Victoria.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision and now on occasion cited guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jul 23, 202059:21
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 21 - Jamie Kelly - Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 21 - Jamie Kelly - Melbourne VIC

Episode 21 of the Kiwi and the Emu.

From our first episode in Victoria’s second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, where Carolyn is still in Auckland New Zealand but Elise has taken up residence at a sisters place on the Mornington Peninsula, we produce this recording from the famous porch where the Lonsdale family have held many great parties over the years.

These days, we cannot use our sound system, TV or party lighting equipment on the famous portch due to not being able to have visitors to the home, however, Elise uses this space as her make-shift office and studio. So, you’ll hear the birds, dogs barking and many other cool outdoor sounds as we interview Jamie Kelly from Vision Australia.

Jamie Kelly is in his 29th year of working in the library at Vision Australia. He discusses the changes to his work and family life throughout both the first and second set of Victorian lockdowns.

Jamie speaks at length about how his work at vision Australia has changed and also philosophises on his fears and anxieties about travelling around as a blind person during the current pandemic.

As a father of four school age children, Jamie also talks about how he is managing the home school situation and the online learning here in Victoria.

Jamie brings to this discussion many new points that have not yet been discussed by previous guests on our show.

Karen Lonsdale, Elise’s sister and host makes a cameo appearance near the end of this show.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jul 14, 202001:21:40
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 20 - Faye Baxter - Ballarat VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 20 - Faye Baxter - Ballarat VIC

Episode 20 of the Kiwi and the Emu.

Elise is back after 3 days away to do the editing. On return to Melbourne, she had to leave again and set up with her sister on the Mornington Peninsula prior to the latest round of level 3 restrictions being placed on the whole Melbourne metropolitan area. This is why 10 days have elapsed between the recording of this interview and its publishing as a podcast.

In episode 20, we speak with Faye Baxter from the Blind Alliance who was the convener of a conference that was just about to run before March’s lockdowns. Faye also discusses her life as a medical intuitive and other roles she has held with Vision Australia and BCA.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jul 12, 202001:02:38
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 19 - Tewai and Latoa Halatau Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 19 - Tewai and Latoa Halatau Auckland NZ

Episode 19 of the Kiwi and the Emu. Today we talk to Tewai and Latoya Halatau from Auckland. We learn about their work with the disability community in the Pacific and we hear about their business Vision Pacific that offers support to the disability community. We explore how Maori and Pacific People had to process their funerals and put aside some cultural practices during lock down,

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jul 10, 202056:55
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 18 - Nicola Owen & Paul Brown - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 18 - Nicola Owen & Paul Brown - Auckland NZ

In this edition of the Kiwi and the Emu, Episode 18, we talk to Paul Brown and his partner Nicola Owen, who were given an international award by the American Council for the Blind for their work with audio description during New Zealand’s lockdown. We will find out what they did and talk about their company Audio Describe Aotearoa. We also talk about how they participated in the Black Lives Matter March in Auckland.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jun 30, 202001:09:04
TheKiwi and the Emu - Episode 17 - David and Christine Pocock

TheKiwi and the Emu - Episode 17 - David and Christine Pocock

In this special edition of the Kiwi and the Emu, Episode 17, we visit with David and Christine Pocock from Melbourne's outer eastern suburbs.

They went on a cruise and returned home to face two weeks of self-isolation immediately followed by the level 3 Victorian lockdown.

Find out what happened when David needed to go to hospital, the toilet broke and how much trouble Christine went to get permission to have a plumber come to their home to make repairs.

David lost his eyesight several years ago related to his Muscular Dystrophy. This is a story of how David copes with his condition and how Christine supports him. It is also a great conversation around how they both dealt with the lockdowns and how People like Elise were able to utilise technology such as Zoom Cloud Meeting to allow David and Christine to consult with David’s speech therapist. It is also a story about how technology could also be used to facilitate David’s ongoing Access Technology training and his Physiotherapy should they not be able to attend those face to face appointments.

David attends a woodworking class at Vision Australia which, due to the pandemic was moved online via Zoom Cloud Meeting and shows us a kit model of a bike that he had made under instruction while attending the on-line classes.

The Pococks also discuss family values, their grand children’s home schooling and how their church managed online services and meetings.

This story has many twists and turns, so strap yourself in for a 90-minute great conversation like nun other in this series.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jun 25, 202001:32:57
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 16 - Aine Kelly-Costello - Norway

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 16 - Aine Kelly-Costello - Norway

Episode 16: today we talk to Aine Kelly-Costello who is currently living in Norway with her parents. She left New Zealand to study in Sweden and was living there until April of this year. We will hear her impressions of living in Europe during this time and the challenges that posed. We also hear about the challenges of being a blind student studying abroad.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment. 

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.  


Jun 23, 202056:20
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 15 - Emma Bennison - Hobart TAS

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 15 - Emma Bennison - Hobart TAS

In episode 15 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we travel to Tasmania to speak with Emma Bennison, an accomplished Musician and current CEO of Blind Citizens Australia, (BCA). Emma talks about her personal journey through the lockdowns in Australia and having elderly family in Queensland, now two closed borders away from her back in Tasmania where she lives with her husband and sons.

Emma discusses her role at BCA and how her organisation is handling the pandemic. She also shares how BCA are running online happy hours for its members via Zoom.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and wherever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jun 19, 202048:11
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 14 - Lauren & Neil - Melbourne VIC/Wellington NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 14 - Lauren & Neil - Melbourne VIC/Wellington NZ

In episode 14 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we talk to Lauren Hayes in Melbourne and Neal Jarvis in Wellington who are in a relationship and are separated by the closed border between our two countries.

They discuss how the lockdowns occurred simultaneously in both New Zealand and Australia and how the deaper level 4 in New Zealand affected Neil.

They were kind enough to talk about their emotions as they are still separated with no known date as to when the borders may re-open.

Carolyn and Elise thank them for being so open in the podcast.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and where ever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jun 16, 202001:12:32
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 13 - Martine & Gary - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 13 - Martine & Gary - Auckland NZ

In episode 13 we visit the Auckland home of Martine Abel-Williamson and her husband Gary Williamson. Martine runs her own business as an Access Advisor and has been involved with Blindness advocacy through both Blind Citizens New Zealand and the World Blind Union. Gary works for Blind and Low vision NZ as part of the contact centre and he loves his sport. Their guide dogs also make a brief appearance in this interview.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and where ever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jun 11, 202052:23
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 12 - Toni Sharp - Taupo NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 12 - Toni Sharp - Taupo NZ

In Episode 12 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we visit the middle of the North Island of New Zealand  and see how Toni Sharp from Sharp Kitchens is getting on. Toni is also a very accomplished Toastmaster. Toni also talks about some of her adventures while in Stage 4 Lockdown walking around town with her guide dog Patsy.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and where ever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Jun 09, 202057:09
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 11 - Lauren Henley - Newcastle NSW/Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 11 - Lauren Henley - Newcastle NSW/Melbourne VIC

In Episode 11 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we talk to Lauren Henley in Newcastle NSW but who actually lives in Melbourne Victoria and is staying with her family during the COVID-19 situation but still works on line for a Melbourne based organisation. Lauren is also a director of Blind Citizens Australia, (BCA).

Lauren shares with us how quickly she needed to get out of Melbourne and back to Newcastle to be with her family when everything closed down in March.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and where ever good podcasts are found. You can also use the links below to find it on the Anchor site.

Podcast Series Link: https://anchor.fm/kiwiandemu

Warm Regards

Elise Lonsdale

Jun 07, 202050:12
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 10 - Martin Stewart - Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 10 - Martin Stewart - Melbourne VIC

In Episode 10 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we stay in Melbourne Victoria and see how Martin Stewart is getting on with his advocacy work with BCA, how he is personally handling the COVID-19 situation and discuss the ways Government have communicated its message to the public.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

You can find the Kiwi and the Emu Podcast in Apple Podcast, Spotify, Downcast, Overcast and where ever good podcasts are found.

Jun 04, 202049:15
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 9 - Jordie Howell - Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 9 - Jordie Howell - Melbourne VIC

In Episode 9 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we go to Melbourne Victoria and see how Jordie Howell is going with her music, choir, teaching and mobility since the COVID-19 restrictions came in. Jordie sings at Christ Church South Yarra and she discusses how different Easter was in 2020 due to the local restrictions in Victoria. She also shares with us her experiences of attending church services online and singing on line.

Most of the podcasts in this series starts with the formal interview with our guest and ends with the lighter moments where our guests get the opportunity to share more with us. So, don’t forget to hang around after the formal interview segment.

Please enjoy the music in parts of this episode.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people and their work, home life and families.

Jun 01, 202046:29
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 8 - Chrystal Alexandroff - Sunshine Coast QLD

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 8 - Chrystal Alexandroff - Sunshine Coast QLD

In Episode 8 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we go to Queensland’s  Sunshine Coast and see how Chrystal Alexandroff is getting on with her 16 year old son who is returning to school. She talks about her going shopping with her support workers and how the lockdowns affected that and how her son is learning to drive and sitting his piano exams.

We find out about some of the lighter moments that happened.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people who are blind or have low vision.

May 30, 202036:48
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 7 - Ali Pearce - Shire of Moorabool VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 7 - Ali Pearce - Shire of Moorabool VIC

In Episode 7 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we go to a little place just out side of Melbourne and chat to Ali Pearce. Ali is a Kiwi-Ausssie (Kwaussie) and has family on both sides of the ditch. She also works at Dining in the Dark and has another job with a culture group.

We find out about some of the lighter moments that are happening to Ali and she talks about how she contacts her family on line wile the border between Australia and New Zealand is still closed.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people.

May 27, 202054:42
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 6 - Karen and Murray - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 6 - Karen and Murray - Auckland NZ

In Episode 6 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we go to Auckland New Zealand and see how Karen and Murray Peat are getting on parenting and working during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Today we hear from blind parents Murray and Karen Plimmer about caring for their 17 month old daughter Emily and trying to work during the lock down. We hear what challenges this posed for them.

We find out about some of the lighter moments that happened.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people who are blind or have low vision.

May 23, 202055:38
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 5 - Nicki & Arthy - Bunbary WA

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 5 - Nicki & Arthy - Bunbary WA

In Episode 5 of the Kiwi and the Emu, we go to Western Australia and see how Nicki Muir and Arthur Pirika are getting on with the regional restrictions placed on West Australians. Not only does the larges state in the Commonwealth of Australia have its border closed to the rest of the country, at one stage during the Coronavirus crisis that state was divided into 9 regions. Nicki talks about not being able to see her mother, not being able to go shopping for clothing after surgery and how they both are coping being totally blind and doing the supermarket shopping when deliveries were affected.

They also discuss how Western Australia is protecting the various indigenous communities with in that state.

In the casual section near the end of this episode, we discuss everything from radio, social distancing, China, jobs, the economy and how the world in general is affected.

Carolyn Peat from Auckland New Zealand and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne Australia interview blind and low vision guests about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people who are blind or have low vision.

May 21, 202052:13
The Kiwi and the Emu Episode 4 - Taron Taylor - Melbourne VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu Episode 4 - Taron Taylor - Melbourne VIC

In episode 4 of the Kiwi and the Emu, Taron Taylor from Melbourne discusses her Tourette Syndrome, Autism, Blindness and how the COVID-19 shutdowns have affected her ability to access support workers and go shopping. Taron is a huge Harry Potter fan.

Carolyn from Auckland and Elise from Melbourne interview guests on how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people who are blind or have low vision.

Essential Services

May 18, 202036:51
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 3 - Sina Tanoi - Auckland NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 3 - Sina Tanoi - Auckland NZ

In Episode 3, we talk to Sina Tanoi from Auckland. Sina works in administration at Auckland City Hospital and also works in the Hospitality sector at Dans le Noir Auckland. We will find out what life was like working at the Hospital during lockdown. How Sina kept in contact with family and friends and how her faith in God gave her strength during this time.

May 13, 202033:36
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 2 - Darren Bone - Leongatha VIC

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 2 - Darren Bone - Leongatha VIC

A new Blindness related podcast - The Kiwi and the Emu. Carolyn from Auckland and Elise from Melbourne interview guests on how the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns across Australia and New Zealand are affecting people who are blind or have low vision.

In Episode 2, Darren Bone in rural Victoria talks about his work in a pizza shop and how the COVID-19 lockdowns have affected him and his family. We discuss both the NRL and the AFL and Carolyn and Elise have their normal banter.

in our 3rd episode, we will talk to a lady in Auckland who works in a major city hospital. All of our guests will either have low vision or be totally blind.

The Kiwi and the Emu should soon be available in your favourite podcast app. Just look for “The Kiwi and the Emu”.

May 11, 202024:17
The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 1 - Pauline Melham - Christchurch NZ

The Kiwi and the Emu - Episode 1 - Pauline Melham - Christchurch NZ

In Episode 1, Carolyn Peat from Auckland and Elise Lonsdale from Melbourne interview Pauline Melham who is the Manager of Disability Support Services at a Christchurch tertiary institution. Pauline talks about her life before the Covid-19 lockdown in New Zealand and how her life has been affected during the lockdown. She also tells us how her and her husband are dealing with the changes as New Zealand opens up again. Pauline tells us about students now having to learn on line rather than in the classroom and how she as a vision impaired manager now deals with the speed of the Internet, how her computer works and how her access technology behaves. Pauline also expresses her concerns for her family and friends back in the United Kingdom.

Carolyn and Elise also banter over New Zealand Rugby League players coming over to Australia to play in the NRL.

May 10, 202026:03