Spare a Thought

In this episode, Tom is joined by multidisciplinary designer and architecture graduate Bee Yogasivam to explore the life and legacy of Tadao Ando, one of Japan's most celebrated architects. This episode is released during Golden Week, one of Japan's three busiest holiday seasons. Ando grew up in working class Osaka, unable to attend university, he taught himself architecture from second hand university textbooks and then travelled Europe on the Trans-Siberian Railway with little money and no foreign language skills. He went on to become a renowned architect, winning the Pritzker Prize in 1995. The title track for this show is "Young Shall Grow", with thanks to Afro Cluster, Magugu, and Asha Jane. Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

Spare a Thought returns with a refreshed format. The podcast for curious minds exploring creativity, culture and stories from the margins. In this episode, Tom explores the recently published essay anthology The Waters that Raised Us, a powerful collection of unique stories, histories and imagined futures for the waters of Wales. Tom is joined by some of the books' authors. Taylor Edmonds, who is both contributor and editor, as well as Kathryn Tann and Sofia Brizio. The Waters that Raised Us is available to buy via Seren Books.  The title track for this show is "Young Shall Grow", with thanks to Afro Cluster, Magugu, and Asha Jane. Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Guest bios Taylor Edmonds is a poet, writer and creative facilitator from Barry. She is the founder of Writing for Joy, where she provides writing for wellbeing workshops for community groups, schools, hospitals and corporate clients. Taylor’s debut poetry pamphlet Back Teeth was published by Broken Sleep Books in 2022. She was the 21-22 Poet in Residence for the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales. She has received a Rising Stars Award from Literature Wales and Firefly Press for her writing for young people. Taylor’s stage debut, Demand the Impossible, written for Common/Wealth Theatre, showed The Corn Exchange in October 2025.   Kathryn Tann is a writer, editor, and creative producer based between the south coast of Wales and North Yorkshire. She is the author of the essay collection Seaglass (Calon Books, 2024), Co-founder and Editorial Director of Folding Rock Magazine, and the creator of the This Place podcast and Dwell newsletter. With a background in literature programming, including roles with New Writing North and the Durham Book Festival, she now serves on the board for York Creatives. Her work has appeared in The Guardian, The Scotsman, and Nation.Cymru, among others. Kathryn holds a 1st Class degree in English from Durham University and a distinction-level MA in Creative Writing from the University of Manchester.  Sofia Brizio is a bilingual journalist, writer, trained copyeditor, and freelance translator. She graduated in Journalism and holds an MA in Cultural and Creative Industries from Cardiff University. Currently, she is a PhD researcher at the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity (Birmingham City University). Her research examines the representation of disability in UK online news and raises questions surrounding language and identity, investigating journalistic practices and exploring how to work towards a more inclusive media landscape.  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

In this episode, Tom turns his attention to the student loan system in the UK, asking whether it is fit for purpose. You'll hear from six Plan 2 graduates: Josh, Tom, Emily, Alex, Brie and Bee, who share their experiences of a debt that keeps growing. Tom also speaks with Ollie from Rethink Repayment, a campaign pushing the UK government to fundamentally reform the system. Tom draws on a decade working in Higher Education, his own student loans, and field recordings from the Educate, Empower, Employ march he attended in November 2012 to tell the story of how we got here, and what needs to change. If you have UK student loan, you can share your experience with the UK Treasury Committee via the link below. Contributions close on Tuesday 14th April. Share your student loan experience with the Treasury Committee: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=nt3mHDeziEC-Xo277ASzSugWXtlS9G1OpuyhNtc2h8lURjBYV1pUQ0FKWEUzTEpUSkdCQktYRzRPUCQlQCN0PWcu To find out more about Rethink Repayment, sign the petition, or email your MP, head to: https://www.rethinkrepayment.com/ Sign the Rethink Repayment petition: https://www.rethinkrepayment.com/sign-the-petition If you'd like to hear more about the financial pressures facing universities, listen to Tom's previous episode on cuts at Cardiff University: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/cuts-at-cardiff-university/ The title track for this show is "Young Shall Grow", with thanks to Afro Cluster, Magugu, and Asha Jane. Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the Change. Media Network or its partners.

Reforming Tuition debt repayments in the UK  There is no episode of Spare a Thought this week, but I do need your help. I am currently developing an in-depth feature regarding the necessity of a fairer student loan repayment system in the United Kingdom. In collaboration with Rethink Repayment, this upcoming episode aims to highlight the financial realities faced by those under the Plan 2 repayment structure. Call for Case Studies We are seeking formal contributions from individuals who meet the following criteria: Student Status: English or Welsh undergraduate students. Academic Timeline: Individuals who commenced their degree between September 1, 2012, and July 31, 2023. Submission Requirements If you fall within this 11-year window, please submit a voice note to [email protected] by Sunday, April 12th. To ensure a comprehensive case study, please include: Personal Identification: Your full name. Academic Background: Your university, degree subject, and years of study. Financial Data: Your initial debt balance upon graduation versus your current outstanding balance. Contextual Reflection: If possible, record your immediate thoughts while viewing your live balance on screen to help us articulate the specific challenges of this system. Recent Features from the Archive While we finalize this report, we encourage listeners to explore our recent series on Welsh cultural history: Monumental Welsh Women: A two-part study with Emily Mary. The Welsh Language: An exploration of linguistic heritage with Ben Kitchener. The Arthurian Legend: Filmmaker Dan Freeman discusses the Welsh origins of King Arthur and the legend's influence on Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and the Star Wars mythos. Contact & Deadlines Submission Email: [email protected] Deadline: Sunday, April 12th

In this episode, Tom sits down with filmmaker Dan Freeman to ask the question: Was King Arthur Welsh? Dan is currently in production on Excalibur, an epic fantasy film set in Wales, centred on King Arthur and his knights. Tom and Dan explore the origins of the King Arthur myth and its relevance today, the innovative funding model behind the film, and how listeners can follow the production as it develops. This is the final episode in Tom's mini series on Wales. Find previous episodes on Monumental Welsh Women and the Welsh Language wherever you get your podcasts from. Filming on Excalibur is scheduled to begin in 2027. Head to www.excaliburfilm.com for more information, to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, and to take part in interactive sessions linked to the film. The title track for this show is "Young Shall Grow", with thanks to Afro Cluster, Magugu, and Asha Jane. Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the Change Media Network or its partners.

In today's episode, Tom and Ben Kitchener step back from modern policy and into the history that still shapes the Welsh language today. This is Part 2 of 2. From the Blue Books to the Welsh Not, this episode explores the policies that explicitly tried to stigmatise Welsh and shame its speakers — and the psychological weight that legacy still carries today. To close this two-parter, Ben also shares some practical Welsh phrases to help anyone start using the language in everyday life, from greetings to pub etiquette. If you missed Part 1, Tom and Ben explored the "Million Speakers" goal, the "usage gap," and the financial and political pressures of devolution — available now wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was recorded live on Substack. Follow Ben's work on Substack: https://substack.com/@saiscymreig?r=4ks8qu&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the Change Media Network or its partners.

In today's episode, Tom tries something different. Instead of a guest interview, this is the first in a series of short essays, just Tom, in his own words, reflecting on issues that matter. Essay #1 marks Long Covid Awareness Day 2026. Six years after lockdown began, an estimated two million people in the UK are still living with Long Covid, and most of us have moved on as if the pandemic is over. Tom argues it isn't. Drawing on his own experiences of the pandemic and conversations with Long Covid sufferers from previous episodes, Tom reflects on the heroes we celebrated and then forgot, the chasm the pandemic widened between the privileged and the vulnerable, and what we can all do at a personal and political level to support those still suffering. This essay references Tom's three Long Covid episodes from 2025, and one focused on young people whose education was impacted by the wider pandemic. You can find them here: Living with Long Covid Supporting those living with Long Covid Long Covid Kids Generation Covid Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the Change Media Network or its partners.

In today's episode, Tom and Ben Kitchener look past the St David's Day celebrations to explore the real mechanics and politics of the Welsh language - Cymraeg. This is Part 1 of 2. With an ambitious target of a million Welsh speakers on the horizon, this episode gets into the gap between policy and reality - specifically the "usage gap": the difference between having the ability to speak Welsh and actually choosing to use it in daily life. Tom speaks with Ben Kitchener, whose Substack Sais Cymreig explores Welsh language and culture through the eyes of an English speaker learning the language. In Part 1, Tom and Ben discuss the "Million Speakers" goal and what it would actually take to get there; the financial and political pressures of devolution and how Cardiff navigates its relationship with Westminster when it comes to funding cultural ambitions; and the brain drain - why keeping young Welsh speakers in Wales is one of the defining challenges facing the language today. In Part 2, which follows next week, Tom and Ben step back from modern policy and into history - exploring the Blue Books and the Welsh Not, the psychological legacy those policies left behind, and some practical Welsh phrases to help anyone start using the language in everyday life. This episode was recorded live on Substack. Follow Ben's work on Substack: https://substack.com/@saiscymreig?r=4ks8qu&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the Change Media Network or its partners.

In today's episode, Tom and Emily Merry conclude their two-part exploration of monumental Welsh women whose contributions to history are finally being recognised in bronze. From Elizabeth Andrews, the socialist activist who fought tirelessly for the rights of miners' wives, to Cranogwen, the extraordinary master mariner, poet and preacher who declared "gender difference is nothing in the world," this episode celebrates two remarkable women who refused to be defined by the expectations of their time. In Part 2, Tom speaks again with Helen Molyneux, co-founder of Monumental Welsh Women, about the final steps in a mission to create five statues of five Welsh women in five years and what comes next for the project. Together, Emily and Tom discuss Elizabeth Andrews, the socialist activist who organised and agitated for the women behind the miners; and Cranogwen, the seafarer and scholar who broke every boundary placed before her. With the finish line in sight, this episode reflects on what it means to finally see these women take their rightful place in the public landscape of Wales. Find out more about the Monumental Welsh Women project and support the completion of Elizabeth Andrews' statue: https://monumentalwelshwomen.com/ Support the petition for a statue of Princess Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd on the Senedd's petition website. Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

In today's episode, Tom and Emily Merry explore the lives of several monumental Welsh women whose contributions to history are finally being recognised in bronze. This is part 1 of 2.  From Princess Gwenllian, the 12th century warrior princess, to the modern-day campaign to commemorate her, this episode explores why representation in public spaces matters and how the Monumental Welsh Women project is changing the landscape of Wales. Tom speaks with Helen Molyneux, a key organiser for the Monumental Welsh Women, about the journey to create five statues of five Welsh women in five years.  In Part 1, Emily and Tom discuss Betty Campbell, Wales' first Black headteacher; Lady Rhondda, the militant suffragette and businesswoman and Elaine Morgan, the screenwriter who challenged evolutionary theory.  In Part 2, which follows later this week, Tom and Emily will discuss Elizabeth Andrews, the socialist activist who fought for miners' wives; and Cranogwen, the master mariner, poet and preacher who declared "gender difference is nothing in the world." With only one statue left to complete the original mission, this episode celebrates the women who educated, agitated, organised, and changed Wales forever. Find out more about the Monumental Welsh Women project and support the completion of Elizabeth Andrews' statue: https://monumentalwelshwomen.com/ Support the petition for a statue of Princess Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd on the Senedd's petition website. Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

Tom delves into the Spare a Thought archives for the Rewind to celebrate St David's Day on 1st March with conversations focused on Wales and Welsh identity. In this episode, you'll hear from four guests recorded in Spring 2025: Gwern Gwynfil, Director of New Wales and former CEO of Yes Cymru, discusses how St David's Day traditions have evolved, the changing attitudes towards the Welsh language, Wales' hidden historical achievements, and the inadequate devolution settlement that leaves Wales as an "afterthought" to Westminster. Will Hayward, Wales-based journalist, former WalesOnline writer, and host of the For Wales, See Wales podcast, explores the Welsh media landscape, public understanding of the Senedd, and the challenges of reporting on Welsh politics when baseline knowledge is so low. Professor Laura McAllister, Vice President of UEFA, Professor at Cardiff University, and former Wales Women's Football Captain, alongside Lowri Roberts, sports consultant and interim CEO of Bristol City Women's FC, discuss the historic fifty-year ban on women's football (1921-1971), the strategic investment that led to Wales Women qualifying for their first major tournament, and the transformative impact of big tournaments like the Euros on Welsh sport. We want to hear from you! Take our quick listener survey by 4th March and you'll be entered to win 1 of 3 £50 gift cards to a business of your choice. Your feedback helps us grow. Survey link: https://shorturl.at/kXABW  Next week, Tom returns with the first of three brand new episodes in a Wales-focused mini-series, continuing the St David's Day celebration well into March. You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/   Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/    You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

Tom delves into the Spare a Thought archives for the Rewind to return to the show’s most downloaded episode Paternity Leave, released on 18th November 2025 to celebrate International Men’s Day.  In this episode, Tom profiles the work of The Dad Shift and its co-founder George Gabriel.  The UK has the worst paternity leave in the UK, the Daft Shift is looking to change that. A not-for-profit, the Dad Shift is a group of men, dads and other parents campaigning for better paternity leave in the UK.  Co-founder of the organisation, George, details how he got into activism, how The Dad Shift got started, the aims of the not-for-profit and what you can do to support.  You can find out more about The Dad Shift by heading to: https://dadshift.org.uk/ you can also follow them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tiktok You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/   Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/   You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

Tom delves into the Spare a Thought archives for the Rewind to return to an episode from 23rd September 2025, A Matricentric Future. Tom interviews friend and founder of Womb CIC, Sinnead Ali. Sinnead opened a new studio space in Cardiff last summer. The conversation covers Sinnead's journey from working at Cardiff Students' Union with Tom to traveling and becoming a yoga teacher. They discuss the inspiration behind Womb CIC, including Sinnead's personal experience with health issues, her work in Singapore hosting women's circles, and her training in pre-and post-natal yoga. Sinnead explains the term "matricentric" and how it influences the studio's holistic approach to wellness. Together Tom and Sinnead talk about how a matricentric future would centre the needs of mothers, leading to a ripple effect that benefits all of society. The conversation also highlights the Womb Festival, which focused on "bringing back the village" and supporting people during the fourth trimester. Sinnead shares how the festival's location in Grangetown, the most ethnically diverse ward in Cardiff, was chosen to be a welcoming and safe space for the community. Tom and Sinnead also discuss the challenges of the asylum system in the UK, the work of charities like Asylum Justice, and the importance of community-based services to support parents. To follow the latest news and events from Womb CIC head over to https://www.instagram.com/womb.sanctuary/  You can book sessions at the studio via https://www.wombcic.co.uk/  Sinnead’s yoga studio Womb on 99 Woodville Road, Cathays, CF24 4DY Follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia.  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/. Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production.  The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

In today’s episode, Tom speaks to five members of the Friday Writers Club run by Briony Goffin at Cardiff Writers Studio. Together they discuss the radical act of writing. Writing as an act of defiance, in dark times, in dark months.  In a world where AI can generate text instantly, what does it mean to sit down and put your own words on the page? What drives us to create? And how do we keep going when that voice in our head tells us we're not good enough? Tom has interviewed Briony Goffin previously. Check out Episode 8, Spare a Thought for Creativity: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/the-rewind-creativity/ He also interviewed the Director of the Be the Change. Media network, Lily Mott on the subject of Living a Creative Life: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/living-a-creative-life/ This is the last episode of Season 4. Spare a Thought will be back for a special 50th episode in the spring. Until then 'Rewind' episodes will be released on a regular rhymth, allowing listeners to dive into the Spare a Thought archive.  You can find out more about the Cardiff Writers Studio here: https://www.cardiffwritersstudio.co.uk/  Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

In this rewind episode, Tom revisits a conversation about creativity with Briony Goffin, originally released on New Year's Day 2025. As we continue to navigate creative expression in 2026, this episode offers timeless wisdom on where ideas come from and how to sustain a creative practice. Briony Goffin is a writer, tutor, and mentor who teaches creative writing at Cardiff University and specialises in facilitating creative writing experiences in community and healthcare settings. Tom has been attending Briony's classes for close to 10 years, and their conversation explores the foundations of creative work. Together they discuss where ideas originate, the process of getting back into writing after a break, and what it means to facilitate creative workshops in diverse settings. Briony shares insights from her years of experience helping people find their creative voice, whether they're university students, community groups, or individuals in healthcare environments. This episode perfectly tees up next week's conversation, The Radical Act of Writing, exploring how creative expression can be both personally transformative and politically meaningful. If you're considering taking up writing or another creative pursuit in 2026, this conversation offers inspiration and practical wisdom to help you begin. Learn more about Briony Goffin and the Cardiff Writers Studio here: https://www.cardiffwritersstudio.co.uk/ You can follow the Cardiff Writers Studio on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cardiff_writers_studio/  Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Read Tom's LinkedIn newsletter: https://shorturl.at/ZRNAU  Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. The views and opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network or its partners.

This is the final episode of Curly's War, a mini series of the Spare a Thought podcast based on the self-published book by Tom's grandfather, Walter George Blaza. In this concluding episode, Tom is joined by his brother Matt and cousin Alex to share their personal memories of Walter - the grandfather they knew. They discuss the war memorabilia cabinet that fascinated them as children, Grandad's resourcefulness and self-sufficiency, and the contrast between his adventurous wartime years and the quiet, sheltered life he led in the Leicestershire countryside. The conversation explores how reading Walter's own words gave them new insight into his bravery, his moral compass, and why a farm boy from Shackstone was the perfect candidate to become a commando. In the second half, Tom and co-host Emily Merry reflect on the process of making this series - what they've learned about war, storytelling, and the importance of preserving family histories. They discuss the value of first-hand accounts versus academic histories, and why it matters to seek out and share these stories before they're lost. Links to previous episodes of Curly’s War: Introduction: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-introduction/ Episode 1: The Interwar Years: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-1/ Episode 2: Joining the Royal Marines: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-2/ Episode 3: From D-Day to the Winter War: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-3/ Episode 4: War’s End: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-4/  You can follow Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.

This is Episode 4 of Curly's War, a mini series of the Spare a Thought podcast based on the self-published book by Tom’s grandfather, Walter George Blaza. In this episode, Tom and Emily cover the final months of the conflict, from the brutal raids at Waspik through to the liberation of occupied Germany. Walter details the harrowing reality of winter warfare along the Maas, including high-stakes prisoner raids and hazardous listening patrols. The story then shifts to a period of respite in the town of Goes, where Walter and his friend Jack experience Dutch hospitality, complete with strict rules about wooden clogs, and witness the local administration of justice following the occupation. The episode concludes with what Tom considers to be the most profound moments of the book: Walter's life in the ruins of occupied Germany. They discuss an extraordinary evening in Hanover where former enemies compare battle scars over drinks, the unexpected tailoring services provided by prisoners of war, and a poignant love story with a young woman named Anneliese that made the eventual order to return to England a moment of sorrow rather than just joy. Note: This series has been extended! A fifth bonus episode reflecting on Walter’s post-war life and the man he became, the quiet, reserved gardener who held these incredible stories, will be released soon.  Links to previous episodes: Curly’s War Introduction: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-introduction/ Curly’s War Episode 1: The Interwar Years: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-1/ Curly’s War Episode 2: Joining the Royal Marines: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-2/ Curly’s War Episode 3: From D-Day to the Winter War: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-3/ You can follow Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.

In today’s episode, Tom explores how to navigate a creative life in a world that often feels structured against it. From algorithmic gatekeepers and AI interviews to the pressures of instant gratification, the path for young creatives is increasingly complex. Tom is joined by Lily Mott, director of the Be the change. Media Network production, to discuss the transition from broadcasting to participating. They share personal stories of creative leaps: from Lily’s first voice memo during a protest to Tom’s four-part series documenting a historic trip through the USA.  Together they give examples of the persistence required for this journey, such as Amelia Dimoldenberg’s years of work on YouTube, Tom’s brother’s decade-long path to becoming an artist in a big city, and Olivia Dean’s elevation from playing to empty fields to breaking chart records. These were not overnight success stories, they were built over time.  Drawing on the wisdom of figures like George Orwell and Albert Camus, this conversation moves through the three pillars of a creative journey: finding your field, sustaining the work through winter and doubt, and making a meaningful contribution to the world.  This episode asks: if we have more agency than we realise, how do we stop waiting for a platform and start building the community we want to see?   Watch Lily Mott’s TED Talk on Political Content Moderation on Social Media: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqDO0B82ENY Watch Lily’s speech at The Children's Media Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EF3azSIuN5A Follow the Be the Change Media podcast: https://www.instagram.com/bethechangepodcast/ Follow Lily Mott on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilymott3/ Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Read Tom's LinkedIn newsletter: https://shorturl.at/ZRNAU  Get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/

This is Episode 3 of Curly's War, based on the self-published book by Tom's grandfather, Walter George Blaza.  Walter participates in secret reconnaissance missions days before D-Day. After the invasion, 41 Commando is deployed to liberate the Netherlands, where he witnesses extraordinary acts of kindness from the starving Dutch population. Tom and Emily discuss the assault on Flushing, winter warfare along the River Maas and the moral complexities of occupation. Links to previous episodes are provided below: Curly’s War an Introduction: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-introduction/ Curly’s War Part 1: The Interwar Years: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-1/ Curly’s War Part 2: Joining the Royal Marines: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/curlys-war-episode-2/   You can follow Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.

In today's Christmas special, Tom explores the often-overlooked refugee story at the heart of the nativity. After the birth of Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and the infant had to flee to Egypt to escape King Herod's violence, becoming refugees dependent on the kindness of strangers in a foreign land. Tom speaks with Rosa Brown from the Welsh Refugee Council about the realities facing refugees and asylum seekers in Wales today, and the work being done to create a nation of sanctuary. He's also joined by three chaplains from Cardiff University - Reverend Delyth Liddell, Reverend Joe Smith, and Father John Patrick Thomas - who reflect on what the Christmas story teaches us about welcome, hospitality, and hope. This episode asks: if one of our oldest and most celebrated stories is fundamentally about displacement and hospitality, what does that mean for how we respond to those seeking sanctuary today? Support the Welsh Refugee Council's Winter Appeal: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/29468#!/DonationDetails Find out more about the Welsh Refugee Council: https://www.wrc.wales Keep up to date with Tom's work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ And get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes wherever you get your podcasts from or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.

This is the second episode of Curly's War, based on a self-published book of the same name by Tom's grandfather, Walter George Blaza. Curly's War recounts Walter's life during World War Two as a Royal Marine and Commando, including his training, involvement in D-Day and the Liberation of the Netherlands. In Episode Two, Tom and Emily take listeners from the autumn of 1939 through Walter's extraordinary transformation from civilian bricklayer to elite Commando. After rejecting a farmer's offer of exemption from military service, the young Walter volunteers for the Fleet Air Arm but instead finds himself posted to the Royal Marines in Plymouth. What follows is a harrowing journey through Stonehouse Barracks, dangerous patrols off Scapa Flow, near-death experiences with experimental balloon bombs, and ultimately, the brutal twelve-week Commando training at Achnacarry in Scotland, where less than half survived the course to earn the coveted Green Beret. You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.  Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.    

Content warning: This episode features personal experiences of living with long Covid. While some listeners may find aspects of this discussion difficult and triggering, we believe these stories are important to share. Listener discretion is advised. In today’s episode, Tom focuses on Long Covid Kids, a charity supporting children and young people living with Long Covid. Tom shares the stories of 5 children and young people who are part of The Long Covid Kids Choir, a unique choir led by Merel van der Knoop.  Merel outlines the work of the charity, the mission of the choir, and the supportive community created from it. This episode is a powerful reminder that for many thousands of children and young people around the UK, Covid remains a debilitating illness that has changed their lives.  To find out more about Long Covid Kids, follow them on Instagram or head to their website Follow the Long Covid Kids Choir on X and follow Merel on Instagram  Keep up to date with Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  And get the latest news on the podcast via the Spare a Thought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes including Living with Long Covid and Supporting those Living with Long Covid wherever you get your podcasts from or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.

This is the first episode of Curly’s War based on a self published book of the same name by Tom’s grandfather, Walter George Blaza. Curly’s War recount’s Walter’s life during World War Two as a Royal Marine and Commando, including his training, involvement in D-Day and the Liberation of the Netherlands.  To kick off this 4-part mini series, Tom and co-host Emily Merry take listeners back to the mid 1920’s, when Walter and his older brother Bill break into the grounds of the Gopsall estate to go on an adventure. The rest of the episode is dedicated to exploring life in interwar Leicestershire, the campaign for women’s suffrage, the creation of the BBC, the politics of the 20’s and 30’s, and the factors that influenced the start of the war. You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.  Opinions shared by the guests and hosts of this show are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Be the change. Media Network.

In today's episode, Tom interviews Karen Jacobsen, the Henry J. Leir Professor of Global Migration at the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy at Tufts University to discuss how refugees transform the cities in which they are hosted in.  Karen discusses how she progressed a career in forced migration, the history of refugees, how city governments often diverge from national governments and the role of policy in shaping the treatment of refugees. Tom and Karen also discuss her new book Host Cities - how refugees are transforming the world's urban setting. The book uses Cairo and Tripoli, Lebanon as case studies. You can purchase Karen's book from: Yale University Press https://yalebooks.co.uk/book/9780300254693/host-cities/ Amazon UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Host-Cities-Refugees-Transforming-Settings/dp/0300254695 TG Jones https://www.tgjonesonline.co.uk/Product/Karen-Jacobsen/Host-Cities--How-Refugees-Are-Transforming-the-Worlds-Urban-Settings/15685618  You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. 

In today’s episode Tom marks International Men’s Day (19th November) by profiling the work of The Dad Shift and its co-founder George Gabriel.  The UK has the worst paternity leave in the UK, the Daft Shift is looking to change that. A not-for-profit, the Dad Shift is a group of men, dads and other parents campaigning for better paternity leave in the UK.  Co-founder of the organisation, George, details how he got into activism, how The Dad Shift got started, the aims of the not-for-profit and what you can do to support.  You can find out more about The Dad Shift by heading to: https://dadshift.org.uk/ you can also follow them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tiktok You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. 

In this special introductory episode, Tom launches a new four-part mini-series of Spare a Thought titled Curly’s War, joined by his producing partner, Emily Merry. This series is inspired by Tom’s grandfather’s self-published memoir Curly’s War, written 25 years ago. The book recounts Walter George Blaza’s experiences as a Royal Marine Commando during the Second World War, from his early training, to taking part in the D-Day landings, and ultimately to the liberation of the Netherlands. Across the series, Tom will read selected excerpts from Walter’s first-hand account, using his grandfather’s voice as the thread that guides us. Each reading is followed by a deeper historical exploration, drawing out personal stories and broader social contexts. Alongside the military narrative, the series will shine a light on the often-overlooked dimensions of wartime life, including: Life and community in rural Leicestershire The role of women during WWII (including the history of women’s football) The realities of military training The experience and impact of the liberation of the Netherlands This series is both a personal act of remembrance and an invitation to explore how ordinary lives shape and are shaped by extraordinary times. Follow Tom's work: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Stay connected with the show: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ Listen to all previous episodes: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts. Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

In today’s episode Tom speaks to Professor Les Back, a lecturer of Sociology at the University of Glasgow about 1979 TV episode of Open Door called It Aint Half Racist Mum. Together Tom and Les discuss the impact social work had on Les’s career as an academic, the life and legacy of Stuart Hall, one of the creators of cultural studies in the UK. The central focus of the pod this week is a TV episode Hall presented with actress Maggie Steed called It Ain’t Half Racist on Open Door, which was released in 1979. Through the conversation in today’s episode, you will see many parallels with the contemporary discourse in the public sphere, media and politics about immigrants, migration and racism. You can watch It Ain’t Half Racist Mum on iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0jy3ytj or you can find the episode on YouTube. Follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. 

To honour Black History Month, Tom is joined by Be the change. Media’s host of The Forgotten Generation Podcast Troy Njenje Mbanga. Together Tom and Troy discuss the life and legacy of Dr Dororthy Height, often referred to as the “godmother” of the Civil Rights movement.  Tom’s research is based off an interview with Dr Height, available to watch on Youtube: A Conversation with Dorothy Height - National Portrait Gallery: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfA9Am-rZTw  You can follow updates about The Forgotten Generation Podcast via instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theforgottengeneration.podcast/ and you can catch-up on previous episodes on: Spotify: https://shorturl.at/kck3I Apple podcasts: https://shorturl.at/fou41  And everywhere else: https://theforgottengenerationpodcast.podbean.com/  Troy’s recommendations for The Forgotten Generation Podcast: National Youth Strategy https://theforgottengenerationpodcast.podbean.com/e/the-forgotten-generation-national-youth-strategy/  Interview with Eden Byrne https://theforgottengenerationpodcast.podbean.com/e/the-forgotten-generation-with-eden-byrne/  One Year Anniversary episode: https://theforgottengenerationpodcast.podbean.com/e/one-year-of-the-forgotten-generation-podcast/  Alongside exploring the achievements of Dr Height, Tom reviews a Common/Wealth Theatre Company production called Demand the Impossible, a part-performance, part punk-gig, part-sensory experience, exploring police injustice and the undercover infiltration of activist networks. Follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. 

In this episode of Spare a Thought, Tom is taken in a time machine to 2030 by author, activist and environmentalist Rob Hopkins to show us how we averted the climate crisis and reshaped our relationship with nature and the planet. During their conversation Rob tells Tom about working in a Tibetan monastery in Tuscany Italy, what he learned from a maverick teacher in Ireland about permaculture and he describes what the future tastes, smells and looks like.  You can follow Rob on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robhopkins5085/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yoodooright1968  Visit Rob’s website and sign up to his newsletter the Time Traveller’s Gazette: https://www.robhopkins.net/  You can purchase Rob’s book How to Fall in Love with the Future here: https://www.robhopkins.net/the-book/  Rob and Mr Kit have made an immersive music and video experience called Field Recordings from the Future: https://www.fieldrecordingsfromthefuture.co.uk/home  Kinsale Energy Descent Action Plan: http://www.transitiontownkinsale.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/kinsaleenergydescentactionplan.pdf  Follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/. Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. 

In this episode Tom interviews Charlie Edmonds from Civic Square, an organisation demonstrating neighbourhood-scale civic infrastructure for social, ecological, economic, and climate transition. Together Tom and Charlie discuss the gap between the idealistic vision of architecture students are taught at university vs the profit driven private practice they work in. Charlie outlines his own journey from architect to Mission Co-Lead for Neighbourhood transitions. Charlie outlines the three demonstrators Civic Square are building: Neighbourhood Doughnut  Neighbourhood Transitions  Neighbourhood Public Square The conversation across this episode tells a really important story: neighbourhood buy-in and co-design are essential for navigating climate change.  Head to Civic Square’s website to see what projects they are working on: https://civicsquare.cc/ Attend free events hosted by Civic Square: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/civic-square-30350377814  Read Civic Square and Dark Matter Lab’s report into the impact that rising temperatures will have on urban settings in the UK over the next 100 years: https://medium.com/neighbourhood-public-square/3%C2%BAc-neighbourhood-582903b050b2 Read Civic Square and Dark Matter Lab’s chapter on Endowing the Future: https://medium.com/neighbourhood-public-square/endowing-the-future-65041b0f88cd  Civic Square’s work is based around Dan Hill’s Designing Missions: https://shorturl.at/uFcSO  Civic Square’s Doughnut Demonstrator is based off Kate Raworth’s Doughnut Economics: https://www.waterstones.com/book/doughnut-economics/kate-raworth/9781847941398  The Danish project Doughnut for Economic Development: https://www.effekt.dk/doughnut-for-urban-development  You can follow Tom’s work via his Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Keep up to date with Spare a Thought via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/. Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. 

This episode marks a special milestone: Spare a Thought’s 1st Birthday! A huge thank you to every listener, guest, and supporter who has helped us reach 33 episodes and nearly 2,000 downloads!  Your host, Tom Spare, takes a moment to reflect on the show's journey - from its beginnings with The Political Dispatch to becoming a standalone show - and gives a special shout-out to the Founding Director of Be the Change. Media Network, Lily Mott, on her recent shortlist nomination for Cardiff University’s 30(ish) Awards. In honour of Black History Month and as part of our 'Educating for the Future' series, Tom is joined by Clarice Rodney, the Operations Manager of the Black British Book Festival . Clarice shares her career path and tells the story of how the festival began and how it has grown into a vital space for writers and readers. Together, Tom and Clarice discuss the powerful role of reading and storytelling in understanding our world, referencing the words of James Baldwin, and how the festival acts as an essential voice in a complex and often divisive media landscape. Clarice also shares invaluable advice for emerging writers, particularly those from Black and other marginalised communities, on getting their work published and seen. The conversation looks ahead to the Black British Book Festival, which takes place on October 19th at the Barbican Centre in London. You can book your tickets to the Black British Book Festival via the Barbican’s website: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2025/event/black-british-book-festival-2025 Listen to Keyari Page’s Shadow and Light: https://shadowandlightpod.podbean.com/ Listen to the previous episode of Spare a Thought with Sinnead Ali: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/a-matricentric-future/ Listen to the most recent episode of The Political Dispatch - Trouble in France and Britain's Far Right March: https://thepoliticaldispatch.podbean.com/e/trouble-in-france-and-britains-far-right-march/  And Olivia Dean’s latest album The Art of Loving is available to buy and stream wherever you get your music from. Head to Olivia’s website for more information about her music and upcoming tour: https://www.oliviadeano.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production.  Follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia.  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/.

Tom interviews friend and founder of Womb CIC, Sinnead Ali who has recently opened a new studio space in Cardiff. The conversation covers Sinnead's journey from working at Cardiff Students' Union with Tom to traveling and becoming a yoga teacher. They discuss the inspiration behind Womb CIC, including Sinnead's personal experience with health issues, her work in Singapore hosting women's circles, and her training in pre-and post-natal yoga. Sinnead explains the term "matricentric" and how it influences the studio's holistic approach to wellness. Together Tom and Sinnead talk about how a matricentric future would centre the needs of mothers, leading to a ripple effect that benefits all of society. The conversation also highlights the Womb Festival, which focused on "bringing back the village" and supporting people during the fourth trimester. Sinnead shares how the festival's location in Grangetown, the most ethnically diverse ward in Cardiff, was chosen to be a welcoming and safe space for the community. Tom and Sinnead also discuss the challenges of the asylum system in the UK, the work of charities like Asylum Justice, and the importance of community-based services to support parents. To follow the latest news and events from Womb CIC head over to https://www.instagram.com/womb.sanctuary/  You can book sessions at the studio via https://www.wombcic.co.uk/  Sinnead’s yoga studio Womb on 99 Woodville Road, Cathays, CF24 4DY Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production.  Follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia.  You can listen to all previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts or head to https://spareathought.podbean.com/.

Tom interviews Jay Chard, a PhD student from the University of South Wales who is researching the role universities play in a just climate transition.  Together Tom and Jay discuss the terminology used by climate scientists, they explore the meaning behind climate justice and debate the role universities play in helping to adapt during ecological, environmental, social and economic change. Are universities complicit in climate breakdown? What is their role in fighting climate change? And are universities preparing their students to deal with the challenges climate change brings? Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production. Follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia You can listen to all the previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ to listen now.

Join Tom as he interviews Sam Cullis London Breeze Film Festival founder and Executive Director. Amongst other roles, Sam is Tom’s former Film studies teacher. Together they discuss Sam’s career path into the film world, the influence of former teacher Ray Wilkinson on both their lives, how new filmmakers can break into the industry, as well as discussing the timeline of the London Breeze Film Festival and look ahead to the Festival, which takes place in October.  The London Breeze Film Festival takes place between 22nd and 26th October. You can find out more about the festival via their Instagram and check their website: https://londonbreezefilmfestival.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production. Follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia You can listen to all the previous episodes of the show wherever you get your podcasts from or head to: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ to listen now.

In this episode, Tom speaks with Chris Thorpe, an apprenticeship coordinator and project manager at a photonics company. Chris discusses the importance of getting kids into STEM fields, his own non-linear career path, and how technology will shape the world of work for the school leavers of today.  Spare a Thought is a Be the Change Media Network production. Follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia For exclusive insights and reflections, subscribe to Tom's Substack: tomspare.substack.com 

Tom hears from five members of Generation Covid, a cohort of young people whose education and lives were completely changed by the pandemic. This episode shares the stories of Will, Izzy, Emily, Eden and Emma as they recall navigating the early days of lockdowns. A sudden end to childhood, few formal goodbyes, and a jarring start to adulthood. In Season 2, Tom also collated the accounts of 12 people who have lived with Long Covid, and in a follow-up episode, explored how society can better support them. You can listen to those episodes below: Living with Long Covid: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/living-with-long-covid/ Supporting those living with Long Covid: https://spareathought.podbean.com/e/supporting-those-living-with-long-covid/ Subscribe to Spare a Thought and follow us on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia. For exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and extended reflections, subscribe to Tom’s Substack: tomspare.substack.com Spare a Thought is a Be the Change. Media Network production.

In the final episode of Going Spare in the USA, Tom flies to Washington, D.C., on the eve of the US Presidential Election polling day. He finds a city holding its breath and watches a tense election night unfold from a crowded pub in the shadow of Capitol Hill. In the days that follow, Tom visits the Capitol Building and a museum dedicated to the Palestinian people, and finds a moment of peace at the Lincoln Memorial. The series concludes with a final reflection on his journey and the state of a nation as a new era of politics begins. Subscribe to Spare a Thought and follow us on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia. For exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and extended reflections on the US, subscribe to Tom’s Substack: tomspare.substack.com. Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

Tom takes an epic Amtrak train journey, crossing four states to get from New Orleans to Atlanta. Onboard he meets a couple travelling to New York, talks voodoo and paranormal activities with an Amtrak worker and stays in a sketchy motel once he reaches Atlanta.  Join Tom as he explores the lives of two Georgia’s greatest sons: Martin Luther King Jr, and former President Jimmy Carter.  Subscribe to Spare a Thought and follow us on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia. For exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and extended reflections on the US, subscribe to Tom’s Substack: tomspare.substack.com. Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

Content warning: This episode makes brief references to drug use and death. This is Going Spare in the USA, a four-part mini-series following Tom Spare’s journey across America in the lead-up to the 2024 US Presidential Election. Part 2: The Big Easy Leaving behind the buzz of New York, Tom dives into the unique rhythm of New Orleans. From a chaotic arrival and a memorable Uber ride to vibrant markets and the soulful history of jazz, he gets an authentic taste of NOLA’s rich culture. Along the way, he meets resilient locals and witnesses the subtle yet striking ways politics shape everyday life. But amid the magic, moments of stark reality emerge, prompting deeper reflection on the American experience. Listen to Going Spare in the USA: Part 2 – The Big Easy now. Subscribe to Spare a Thought and follow us on Instagram: @spareathoughtmedia. For exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and extended reflections on the US, subscribe to Tom’s Substack: tomspare.substack.com. Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

This is Going Spare in the USA, a four episode mini series focused on Tom Spare's trip to the US in the lead-up to the US Presidential Election in November 2024. What started as a meticulously planned cultural immersion in the Big Apple, exploring the grandeur of the New York Public Library, discovering the magic of Carnegie Hall, losing himself in the political treasures of Argosy Bookstore, and witnessing a groundbreaking "Romeo and Juliet" on Broadway takes an utterly unexpected turn. Listen to Going Spare in the USA Part 1: Trump Headlines the Garden. Subscribe to Spare a Thought today and follow Spare a Thought on Instagram. If you want a deeper dive, including exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and additional reflections on the US, subscribe to Tom's Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ You can also follow Spare a Thought on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

Cast your minds back to October 2024. The US Presidential race is neck and neck between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and three-time Republican pick, President Donald Trump. Amidst the political drama, Tom Spare flew out to New York City to start an epic two-week journey traveling the United States as voting day fast approached. In a new four-part series, join Tom as he recounts his travels, accidentally finding himself in the middle of a political rally, hearing the music of New Orleans, learning about the humble beginnings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and witnessing election night unfold in Washington DC. Subscribe to Spare a Thought today and follow Spare a Thought on Instagram. If you want a deeper dive, including exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and additional reflections on the US, subscribe to Tom's Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

In this episode, Tom chats with Lizzie Spikes, an artist who lives in north Wales and is the co-founder of Driftwood Designs, an Aberystwyth based company who publish and produce a range of gifts, homewares, prints and cards. Together Tom and Lizzie talk about the role Wales plays in Lizzie’s art, the importance of community and taking things slow when starting up a business.   You can find out more about Driftwood Designs by heading to their website: https://driftwooddesigns.co.uk/  Don't forget to subscribe and rate Spare a Thought! Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ And you can also subscribe to Tom’s Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

In this episode, Tom chats with Amanda Hamilton, Director and Patron of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP). They delve into the crucial role paralegals play in helping the public gain access to the justice system. Amanda shares insights into her fascinating career in law, how she rose to become CEO and now patron of NALP, and the significant impact of legal aid cuts from 2010-2015 on access to justice. Discover the skills needed to become a paralegal and how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is impacting the legal profession. Learn more about NALP via their website: https://www.nationalparalegals.co.uk/ Don't forget to subscribe and rate Spare a Thought!  Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spareathoughtmedia/ And you can also subscribe to Tom’s Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

The world’s media has very little access to Gaza. Reports from aid agencies and local news sources suggest 2 million people are at risk of famine. Amidst the horror, the people of Gaza endure. In this special edition of Spare a Thought, Tom shares Dalia’s story.  Dalia is a Business Administration student who lives in Gaza. Life under the Israeli blockade is dire. Despite this she volunteers, supporting her community, working with organisations, advocating for human rights, for children, young people and women. She has a dream. She wants her voice to become part of the change she wants to see in her country because: “I truly believe that real change doesn't start from the top. It starts with one person, with one heart, and with one small idea…that travels further than we ever imagined.” You can listen to Tom’s interview with the International Rescue Committee on getting aid to Gaza from the Political Dispatch podcast here: https://thepoliticaldispatch.podbean.com/   If you are able to, there are a number of charities supporting aid to Gaza: Choose Love: https://chooselove.org/  Doctors without Borders: https://www.msf.org/  The International Rescue Committee: https://www.rescue.org/uk  To hear more about Spare a Thought follow us on our new Instagram account.  Listen back to previous episodes of the show here: https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

Tom talks to Dr Julia Patterson, the Chief Executive of EveryDoctor. EveryDoctor is a campaigning organisation fighting for patients, staff and the future of the NHS.  This episode focuses on Julia’s journey from NHS doctor to campaigner and the personal costs of campaigning, what Wes Streeting’s reforms mean for NHS England, Julia’s book Critical and much more. You can find out about the work of EveryDoctor by heading to their website: https://everydoctor.org.uk/. You can also follow Julia on Tiktok and Bluesky.  To hear more about Spare a Thought follow us on our new Instagram account. You can also subscribe to Tom’s free Substack newsletter. Listen back to previous episodes of the show here: https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

Tom talks to Kim Mamhende, the Chief of Staff at The CAE, a Swansea-based charity that supports migrant, immigrant, refugee and asylum seeking communities in Wales.  Together Tom and Kim’s conversation centres on the work of the CAE, how work helps migrants and immigrants integrate into society, why the UK wouldn’t run without migrants and what role entrepreneurialism plays in bringing communities together. You can find out about the work of The CAE on their website: https://www.caentr.org follow them on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.  Follow Spare a Thought’s new Instagram account and you can subscribe to Tom’s free Substack newsletter. Listen back to previous episodes of the show here: https://spareathought.podbean.com/  Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production.

Tom talks to Will Hayward, a Wales based freelance journalist, columnist and podcaster. Together they talk about how Will got into journalism, his books about Wales, the Welsh media environment and who is most likely to become next First Minister after the 2026 Senedd Elections.  You can subscribe to Will’s Substack here: https://willhaywardwales.substack.com/ and listen to his podcast For Wales, See Wales here: https://forwalesseewales.buzzsprout.com/ Spare a Thought is a Be the change. Media Network production. You subscribe to Tom’s Substack here: https://tomspare.substack.com/ 

In this episode of Spare a Thought, Tom speaks with Luke Young, Head of Policy at Citizens Advice. Luke has previously worked for organisations including NUS Wales, Stonewall, the Senedd, and the Labour Party. Tom and Luke discuss the people who shaped Luke’s worldview, the work of Citizens Advice, the unique challenges facing Wales, recent UK Government changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and three policy changes Luke would introduce to improve the lives of millennials and young people in the UK. If you have been impacted by anything discussed in this episode, you can find support and information at the Citizens Advice website: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ For the latest updates, follow Tom on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ and subscribe to his newsletter on Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/

This month Spare a Thought celebrated 1,000 downloads. As a way to celebrate, Tom has put together a retrospective of Season 1, to look back at the conversations he had with the first cohort of guests.  You can find the links to the individual episodes from Season 1 below: Spare a Thought for the Iris Prize Spare a Thought for Refugees Spare a Thought for International Students Part 1 Spare a Thought for International Students Part 2 Spare a Thought for International Students Part 3 Spare a Thought for Dima Hamden Spare a Thought for the RNLI Spare a Thought for Creativity You can find all previous Spare a Thought episodes here: https://spareathought.podbean.com/ You can also subscribe to Tom’s Substack: https://tomspare.substack.com/ And follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparetom/ 

In this episode of Spare a Thought, Tom speaks with Paul Hargreaves, CEO of Cotswold Fayre, a UK-based wholesaler committed to ethical and sustainable business. Paul is also the author of two influential books, Forces for Good, which explores how businesses can help create a better world, and The Fourth Bottom Line, a guide to flourishing in a new era of compassionate leadership. Together, they discuss how Paul came to found Cotswold Fayre, why businesses can and should be forces for good, and how compassionate leadership can strengthen both company culture and financial performance. The conversation also explores Britain’s broken relationship with food, and how individuals and organisations alike can lead more purposeful, fulfilling lives. You can find out more about Paul, his businesses, work and books at https://www.paulhargreaves.co.uk/  You can follow Tom on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/