Episodes
-
Episode 4 (S9). Changing the Game: Representation in Sports Media (feat. Regina Suddahaza)
In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Regina Suddahaza, founder of The Girls Changing Room! Regina is leading the charge to transform spaces for women and girls in sport, while advocating for greater diversity and authentic representation of women of colour across the sports media...
-
Episode 3. Refuelling the Spark: How to Keep Going When You’re Running on Empty
Welcome back to the latest episode of the Social Matters Podcast! In this episode, we have an open discussion about what helps us to keep going when things feel exhausting, progress feels slow, and a sense of 'meh' starts to creep in. In a world where fighting for change can often leave us…
more -
Episode 2 (S9). From Risk to Reason: Centring Women in HIV Care (ft. Sophie Strachan and Nneka Nwokolo)
In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant duo Sophie Strachan and Dr Nneka Nwokolo! Sophie and Nneka work with Sophia Forum, an organisation dedicated to promoting and advocating for the rights, health, welfare, and dignity of women living with HIV through research, awareness, and policy...
-
Episode 1 (S9). Good News Stories to Kick Off the Season
Welcome back to this brand new season of the Social Matters Podcast! We are kicking off the season with a bit of light in the dark, bringing you some of the good news stories we've experienced recently. In a world that can often feel overwhelming with bad news, where do we find hope, joy and the...
-
Episode 17 (S8). Connecting With Your Why: The Heart of Social Change
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the idea of “connecting with your why,” and reflect on what this means in the context of social change, challenging discrimination and our own journeys within the DEI space. What does it mean to stay connected to your deeper...
-
Episode 15 (S8). More Than a Meal: The Hidden Impact of Breakfast on Young Lives (feat. Dr Ben Dunn)
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Ben Dunn, Head of Impact and Innovation at Magic Breakfast — a charity champion and provide nourishing breakfasts that help children and young people learn and thrive. During our conversation, Ben shares the mission behind Magic Breakfast and reflects on the...
-
Episode 15 (S8). Inside the Manosphere: Our Reflections
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the Louis Theroux Netflix documentary 'Inside the Manosphere', reflecting on our reactions, what stood out to us and the wider conversations it raises about masculinity, identity and influence. What is the manosphere, and why is it...
-
Episode 14 (S8). Sitting With Uncertainty
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the systemic concept of safe uncertainty, originally developed by Barry Mason, and reflect on what this idea means within organisations, professional practice and our own experiences in social work. What does it mean for…
more -
Episode 13 (S8). Beyond the Pitch: Equality and Representation in Refereeing (feat. Arran Williams and Karan Rai).
In this episode, we’re joined by Arran Williams and Karan Rai from the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the organisation responsible for refereeing across the professional football leagues. During our conversation, Arran and Karan share insight into the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion...
-
Episode 12 (S8). The Statements Episode: Agree or Disagree?
In this episode, we open up a conversation around Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) by responding to a series of thought-provoking statements and questions. Rather than offering simple answers, we explore where we agree, where we disagree, and —most importantly — why. Through honest...
-
Episode 11 (S8). Breaking Cycles of Domestic Abuse: Starting With the Baby (feat. Lauren Seager-Smith)
In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Seager-Smith, CEO of For Baby’s Sake, a pioneering charity working to break cycles of domestic abuse and transform life-chances for whole families — starting with the baby. During our conversation, Lauren shares the vision behind For Baby’s Sake and…
more -
Episode 10 (S8). Health Is Not Equal: Confronting Health Inequities
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we take a critical look at health inequities, the unfair and avoidable differences in health outcomes that continue to impact individuals and communities every day. Why do some people live longer, healthier lives simply because of where they’re...
-
Episode 9 (S8). Beyond Trauma: Supporting Lives Affected by Violence (feat. Dr. Ron Dodzro)
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Ron Dodzro, an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder and Director of Psychologists The Streets Deserve (PTSD). With over a decade of experience across health, justice and community settings, Dr. Ron brings powerful insight into the real-world impact...
-
Episode 8 (S8). Faith in Focus: Exploring Religion and Spirituality Today
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore religion and spirituality, a topic that continues to shape identities, values and the way we understand ourselves and others in an increasingly complex world. What do religion and spirituality mean today? How do they influence our...
-
Episode 7 (S8). The Kamelion app: Youth Mental Health, Reimagined (feat. Vivian Tanaka)
In this episode, we’re joined by the insightful Vivian Tanaka, creator of Kamelion, a gamified mental health and personal development app for 11–18-year-olds. Rooted in Positive Psychology, co-designed with young people, and centred on curiosity and discovery, Kamelion is transforming the way…
more -
Episode 6 (S8). Allyship in Action
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we discuss allyship almost three years on from our first episode on the topic, a conversation that remains essential for building stronger, fairer communities. What does allyship really mean? How does it show up in our everyday lives, our...
-
Episode 5 (S8). What Does It Mean to Be British in the Current Climate?
In this episode, we dive into an important and timely question: what does it mean to be British today? Against the backdrop of a rising far-right movement and growing social divides, we explore how ideas of identity, belonging and community are being shaped and challenged in the UK right now.…
more -
BONUS EPISODE. The Next Chapter: Inside the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding
In this episode, The Social Matters Podcast team takes you inside the launch of the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding, a two-day international event hosted by Durham University and created by Professor Carlene Firmin. The Centre marks a new chapter in how we understand and respond to the...
-
Episode 4 (S8). Turning Experience into Empowerment. (feat. Jade Barnett)
In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Jade Barnett, co-founder of Power2Prevail, an organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable young people to see that their past and present circumstances don’t define their future. Jade’s work focuses on supporting care-experienced young people as...
-
Episode 3 (S8). Loneliness: A Quiet Conversation We Need to Have
We’re back with a brand new episode of the Social Matters Podcast! Released just two days after World Mental Health Day, this conversation explores into a topic of loneliness. What does loneliness really mean? How does it show up in our lives, our work and our communities? In this episode, we...
-
Episode 2 (S8). From Hackney, With Love: The Human Cost of Gentrification. (feat Richard Yeboah)
In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Richard Yeboah, author of From Hackney, With Love: An Intimate History of Gentrification. Richard grew up in Hackney and saw first-hand how the area changed. Rising rents, new neighbours, and long-time communities feeling the squeeze. In our...
-
Episode 1 (S8). Moments or Movements? Rethinking Social Change in EDI
We’re back with the first episode of Season 8 of the Social Matters Podcast! To kick things off, we’re jump right into a conversation about the idea of moments vs movements in the context of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). From campaigns to events, moments can spark awareness and...
-
Episode 18 (S7). The Quiet Power of Hope
In this final episode of the season, we reflect on the theme of hope: what it means to hold onto it, nurture it, and protect it, especially in times that feel unjust. We’re living in a world where discrimination and division remain ever present, and the noise of those who want to divide can often...
-
Episode 17 (S7). Breaking Barriers in Women’s Football (feat. Kerry Davis)
In this episode, we’re honoured to be joined by a true trailblazer: Kerry Davis, the first Black woman to represent England at football. Kerry shares her incredible journey through the game, from her early days breaking barriers to representing her country on the international stage. With honesty...
-
Episode 16 (S7). What No One Told Us About Menopause (feat. Dr. Elise Dallas)
In this episode, we have a powerful and much-needed conversation about menopause—what it is, what it isn’t, and the realities so many experience in silence. We’re joined by Dr. Elise Dallas, who brings her professional expertise to the discussion. She helps us unpack the physical, emotional, and...
-
Episode 15 (S7). Who Makes the Rules? The Fine Line Between Structure and Exclusion
In this episode, we have a conversation about the complicated world of rules and inclusion—how structures meant to create order can sometimes exclude, and what it takes to build spaces where everyone feels included and as though they belong. Rules are meant to keep things fair, safe, and…
more -
Episode 14 (S7). Grief Isn't linear: Navigating Grief and Loss (feat: Imogen)
In this episode, we have an important and long-overdue conversation about grief and loss—our relationship with them, the support systems that carry us, and how we learn to live alongside deep emotional pain. We’re joined by Imogen, who shares her personal journey navigating the loss of a loved…
more -
Episode 13 (S7). Navigating the Teenage Experience – Lessons from Netflix’s Adolescence
In this episode, we dive right into the Netflix series Adolescence—what it reveals about systemic issues in today’s world, the societal lessons it offers, and how it reflects the challenges of being a teenager. Adolescence is more than just a phase; it’s a critical period of self-discovery,...
-
Episode 12 (S7). Multidirectional Solidarity in Uncertain Times
In this episode, we delve into multidirectional solidarity—what it means, why it’s essential, and how it can drive real change, especially in the face of challenges to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. As Donald Trump and others seek to roll back these efforts, we explore why...
-
Episode 11 (S7). Unpacking Adultification (feat. Jahnine Davis)
In this episode, we sit down with Jahnine Davis to explore adultification—what it is, how it impacts children, specifically Black children, and why it’s a crucial issue we need to address. From being perceived as older than they are to facing harsher expectations and reduced protections,...
-
Episode 10 (S7). Navigating Resistance—Understanding Reluctance & Overcoming Challenges
In this episode, we talk about working with reluctance and resistance—what it means, why it happens, and how to navigate it effectively. Whether it’s resistance to change in the workplace, hesitation in professional relationships, or challenges in team dynamics, reluctance can create barriers to...
-
Episode 9 (S7). How the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is Championing Diversity and Inclusion (feat. Louise Oliver)
In this episode, we explore the crucial work of building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture with Louise Oliver, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Lead at the National Childbirth Trust (NCT). From systemic barriers to meaningful progress, we unpack the challenges and opportunities in...
-
Episode 8 (S7). Breaking the Age Barrier: Confronting Ageism in the Workplace
In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked yet pervasive issue of ageism—the bias that can lead to stereotyping and discrimination based on a person’s age. Whether it’s subtle remarks about being “too young” to lead or assumptions that older workers can’t keep up with technology, ageism...
-
Episode 7 (S7). Anti-Racist Activism (feat. Lisa Zaranyika)
HAPPY NEW YEAR, PEOPLE! In this episode, we are delighted to be joined by the brilliant Lisa Zaranyika. Lisa is a Social Worker, Educator, Anti-Racist activist, and currently the Director of Community and Culture at Young Minds. We delve into Lisa’s Anti-Racist activism within social work and...
-
Episode 6 (S7). Having Feedback Conversations
In this episode, we delve into the nuances of feedback conversations and their vital role in personal and professional growth. Feedback has the potential to strengthen relationships, foster understanding, and drive positive change—when delivered and received with care. We explore how effective...
-
Episode 5 (S7). Disability and Accessibility in the Workplace (feat. Amy Butterworth)
🌟 WOW, WOW, and WOW! This is an episode you cannot miss. We had the incredible privilege of sitting down with Amy Butterworth, an Accessibility and Inclusion Consultant who is making waves in the world of workplace accessibility. Amy shares her inspiring journey, including her lived experiences...
-
Episode 4 (S7). The Power of Language
In this episode, we explore how language shapes our thinking and influences the contexts we live in. Words have the power to foster inclusion, build bridges, or erect barriers. We discuss how intentional, inclusive language can promote belonging and empower communities, while negative language…
more -
Episode 3 (S7). Imposter Syndrome
In this episode, we dive into the all-too-relatable experience of Imposter Syndrome—the fear that others will eventually uncover your perceived weaknesses and question your competence in the same way you do. This self-doubt often comes with a tendency to misattribute hard-won successes to…
more -
Episode 2 (S7). Race, Resilience, and Responsibility in Leading Change (feat. Ben Lindsay OBE).
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the incredibly inspiring Ben Lindsay OBE. As the CEO of the award-winning charity Power the Fight, Ben is dedicated to empowering communities to end violence affecting young people. He shares his experiences leading this impactful…
more -
Episode 1 (S7). Creating Inclusive Environments
Welcome to Season 7 of the Social Matters Podcast! After a refreshing summer break, we're back just in time for winter, ready to bring you insightful conversations, valuable knowledge, and a bit of fun along the way. In this first episode of the season, we dive into the topic of inclusivity. We...
-
Episode 17 (S6). Introducing Difference
FINAL EPISODE OF THE SEASON!!!!! We've come to the end of another road. Our 6th season goes out with a bang! In this episode, your favourite trio of social workers talk about how Introducing Difference can help to create change. This episode is full of fun, laughter, intrigue and hopefully some...
-
Episode 16 (S6). The Half Of It: Exploring the Mixed-Race Experience (ft Emma Slade Edmondson)
In this episode, your favourite trio of social workers are joined by the brilliant Emma Slade Edmondson. Emma is the co-author of a brand new book 'The Half Of It'. Emma is a London-base creative strategist, journalist and recent TEDx speaker - she specialises in social change and sustainability....
-
Episode 15 (S6). Reframing Perspectives on Youth Violence (feat. Luke Billingham)
This episode is an absolute banger! Your favourite trio of social workers were join by the brilliant Luke Billingham. Luke is a Youth and Community worker, Research Associate and Author and joined the Social Matters Podcast to discuss his work and perspective on youth violence. In a society where...
-
Episode 14 (S6). What is Organisational Trauma?
Your favourite trio of social workers are back for their 14th instalment of the season! In this episode, we explore what is meant by Organisational Trauma. What does this mean? How does trauma show up in your organisation? How can organisations respond to the experience of trauma? Tune in to…
more -
Episode 13 (S6). A Look Back At Some Pure Vibes & Laughter
The clocks just went forward by an hour, the days are longer and brighter so we thought it will be a good moment to look back at some of our favourite 'check-ins' over the past 6 years. From our very first episode where we bumbled our way through explaining the podcast, to some episodes that left...
-
Episode 12 (S6). Let's Talk About International Women's Day
In this episode your favourite trio have a conversation International Women's Day and Women's History Month. From celebrating the contributions of women to exploring some of the interpersonal, structural and systemic challenges that women face in society today. What does International Women's Day...
-
Episode 11 (S6).Uplifting & Enriching Approaches to Youth Engagement (ft. Amani Simpson)
THIS IS A MUST LISTEN EPISODE! We were extremely lucky to be joined by the brilliant Amani Simpson for this informative, moving and powerful episode. Amani Simpson is an award winning social entrepreneur, film maker, campaigner and youth coach. He is the producer and the protagonist of the...
-
Episode 10 (S6). Inclusive Leadership (feat. Has Khair)
This was a fun one! In this episode, we were joined by a 'Badass' CEO, Executive Coach and friend of the podcast Hasan Khair. Hasan shares his wealth of knowledge on what Inclusive Leadership means to him. What does it take to be an Inclusive Leader? How can you create an environment where people...
-
Episode 9 (S6). Let's Talk About Professionalism in the Workplace
In this episode your favourite trio have a conversation about the notion of Professionalism. What does it mean to be Professional? What are the benefits and constraints of Professionalism and how does our relationship with Professionalism impact how we are in the workplace? Tune in to listen to...
-
Episode 8 (S6). What is Unconscious Bias?
Your favourite trio of social workers are back with another insightful episode discussing what their understanding is of Unconscious Bias. This is a term that is used in a number of different contexts but what does it actually mean? How can we become more aware of our Unconscious Biases and what...
About this show
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social issues from their front room/studio. Expect debate and hard hitting real talk with a sprinkle of top drawer humour to keep it moving.
Hosted by
Nadia, Fran, Eugene