Erika Butters is revolutionising disability rights through technology that puts decision-making power back where it belongs—with the individual.

Her platform Volition serves as a digital preference bank where people with disabilities can document, store, and share their likes, dislikes, and support needs, addressing a profound human rights issue that everyone deserves to make their own decisions, regardless of cognitive ability.

Erika walks us through the concept of supported decision-making, explaining how current legal frameworks often strip decision-making rights from people with intellectual disabilities. Rather than accepting this situation, she demonstrates how technology can bridge communication gaps by capturing preferences expressed through vocalizations, body language, and other non-verbal cues.

By giving individuals control over how their information is shared, Volition enhances what Māori culture calls "mana"—a person's standing, value, and inherent dignity. In a world where disabled people are often disempowered, this technology returns agency to those who need it most.

Visit volition.org.nz to learn more about this innovative platform that's changing how we think about decision-making, disability, and dignity.

Support the show

The Culture Ministry we specialise in building sustainable businesses through productive and effective work cultures.

We do this through:

🟡 Culture Audits, Surveys, Benchmarking and Data Work

🟡 Crafting Culture Strategy that connects with Organisational Purpose

🟡 Long term leadership programs to advance leadership teams in building sustainable and inclusive cultures. What that leaders say, do, and measure, has a massive impact on your culture and the sustainability of your business.

🟡 Providing structure and tools for Employee Resource Groups to be successful, and drive better business outcomes.

We love working with organisations who know change is needed.

Go to https://www.thecultureministry.com/ to learn more

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Ever wondered what happens when businesses do good work in their communities, but never measure or talk about it? In this conversation with Haemia Melling, founder of Impact Ink, we dive deep into the world of Environmental Social Goverance (ESG) consulting and discover a revolutionary approach to balancing corporate success with community impact.

Hamia shares her journey from childhood dreams of teaching to banking, performing arts, and finally establishing her own consultancy focused on helping businesses and not-for-profits work together more effectively.

She has identified a crucial gap in the market – while many New Zealand businesses engage in excellent community and sustainability work, they rarely measure its impact or share these stories effectively.

The heart of our conversation explores Haemia's "Good Mahi Model," a pricing structure that subsidises not-for-profit work through corporate client fees. This creates a ripple effect where businesses can amplify their community impact simply by choosing to work with Impact Inc.

Whether you're a corporate leader looking to enhance your ESG strategy, a not-for-profit seeking sustainable funding models, or someone interested in creating more purpose-driven work, this conversation offers valuable insights into building businesses that balance profit with purpose.

Connect with Haemia on LinkedIn or visit impactInk.co.nz to learn more about implementing the Good Mahi Model in your organisation.

Support the show

The Culture Ministry we specialise in building sustainable businesses through productive and effective work cultures.

We do this through:

🟡 Culture Audits, Surveys, Benchmarking and Data Work

🟡 Crafting Culture Strategy that connects with Organisational Purpose

🟡 Long term leadership programs to advance leadership teams in building sustainable and inclusive cultures. What that leaders say, do, and measure, has a massive impact on your culture and the sustainability of your business.

🟡 Providing structure and tools for Employee Resource Groups to be successful, and drive better business outcomes.

We love working with organisations who know change is needed.

Go to https://www.thecultureministry.com/ to learn more

Sign up to our newsletter.

If you enjoyed this episode and maybe learnt something please share with your friends on social media, give a 5 star rating on Apple podcasts and leave a comment. This makes it easier for others to find A Dog Called Diversity.

A Dog Called Diversity is proud to be featured in Feedsp...

Ever wondered if the cognitive struggles of menopause might actually be preparing your brain for something better? In this conversation with Tracy Minnoch-Nuku, founder of Sexy Aging, we explore a perspective on menopause that transforms it from a dreaded decline into an empowering transition.

Tracy shares how her 35-year career in the fitness industry collided with her own perimenopause journey, leading her to create a brand that challenges stereotypes about aging.

The term "sexy" isn't about sexual attraction but about feeling confident and vibrant – something women deserve to experience at every age.

While hot flashes might be the poster child of menopause, this conversation focuses on the less discussed mental health impacts that often blindside women.

Brain fog, anxiety, and mood changes aren't just annoying symptoms – they're part of a neurological transformation that Tracy beautifully describes as "pruning the tree." When you understand what's happening and support your body through it, you emerge with greater clarity about what truly matters.

The revelation that strength training might be the true "magic pill" for menopause management will inspire you to view your gym sessions differently. At 55, Tracy is stronger than she was when bodybuilding at 25 – powerful evidence that physical decline isn't inevitable.

Her practical advice on breathing techniques, hormone therapy considerations, and lifestyle modifications offer actionable strategies you can implement immediately.

Whether you're approaching menopause, currently navigating its challenges, or supporting someone who is, this conversation provides the knowledge and perspective to transform this natural transition into one of the most empowering chapters of life.

Learn more about Tracy's work here and listen to her podcast here.

Support the show

The Culture Ministry we specialise in building sustainable businesses through productive and effective work cultures.

We do this through:

🟡 Culture Audits, Surveys, Benchmarking and Data Work

🟡 Crafting Culture Strategy that connects with Organisational Purpose

🟡 Long term leadership programs to advance leadership teams in building sustainable and inclusive cultures. What that leaders say, do, and measure, has a massive impact on your culture and the sustainability of your business.

🟡 Providing structure and tools for Employee Resource Groups to be successful, and drive better business outcomes.

We love working with organisations who know change is needed.

Go to https://www.thecultureministry.com/ to learn more

Sign up to our newsletter.

If you enjoyed this episode and maybe learnt something please share with your friends on social media, give a 5 star rating on Apple podcasts and leave a comment. This makes it easier for others to find A Dog Called Diversity.

A Dog Called Diversity is proud to be featured in Feedsp...