Kiri Allan Speaks Out: The Night That Ended Her Career, Jacinda Ardern & The Road Back

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Odoo. All your business, on one platform. *** Three years ago, Kiri Allan was one of the most recognisable politicians in New Zealand. She was a cabinet minister, a cancer survivor and, to many people, a future leader of the Labour Party.

Then, literally overnight, everything fell apart. But the headlines from that time only ever told a small part of the story.

In this conversation, Kiri talks openly about the childhood that shaped her, being a lesbian in a deeply religious environment, surviving stage – three cervical cancer, the immense pressure of life in Parliament, and the mental health crisis that eventually brought her career to an end.

She also talks very honestly about suicidal thoughts, the shame she carried after the crash, and the slow, difficult process of learning to forgive herself and rebuild her life.

There are some incredibly heavy moments in this conversation - but there is also humour, perspective and a lot of hope.

This is Kiri Allan, telling her story in her own words.

Need to talk? 1737 – Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 at any time for support from a trained counsellor. Lifeline Call 0800 543 354 or 09 522 2999 Free text 4357 (HELP) Suicide Prevention Helpline Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOK0) Youthline Call 0800 376 633 Free text 234 Samaritans Call 0800 726 666 Aoake Te Rā – Bereaved by Suicide Service Call 0800 000 053

CHAPTERS: 0:00 Introduction 1:50 Life three years ago: The height of her career 3:26 Unpacking the fall: Shame, guilt, and the crash 8:15 The book: 'Go Hard or Go Home' 33:39 Interning for Helen Clark 34:35 Mentorship from Sir Michael Cullen 37:46 First day in Parliament: Expectations vs. Reality 46:07 Dame Jacinda Ardern and leadership 54:21 Cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment 1:05:46 Proudest moments in Parliament: Matariki and the Regional Growth Fund 1:12:30 Unfinished business in politics 1:16:54 Addressing bullying allegations and media scrutiny 1:35:48 The night of the resignation 1:40:28 Kindness from unexpected places 1:44:39 The road back: Rebuilding after rock bottom 1:57:31 Changes in mindset and life since Parliament 2:00:34 Managing anxiety and mental health 2:04:00 Defining success today 2:06:38 Emotional reflection and vulnerability 2:08:09 The meaning behind 'Go Hard or Go Home' 2:08:46 Hopes for the future