The Social Matters Podcast

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 motivations for doing this work? In spaces where conversations about inequality and discrimination can be compl...

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 vital role a nutritious start to the day plays in shaping a child’s ability to learn, connect and thrive....

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 gaining traction among young boys and men? In a digital world shaped by algorithms, online com...

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 professionals and organisations to hold both safety and uncertainty at the same time? In systems that often priorit...

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 work taking place within PGMO, and why creating a culture of belonging is essential to the future of th...

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 discussion and reflection, we unpack common assumptions, tensions, and misconceptions around EDI. We consider...

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 reflects on why supporting parents is one of the most powerful ways to protect babies and create lasting chang...

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 born, the colour of their skin, or the resources available to them? How do systemic inequality, discri...

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 of trauma, inequality and violence. During our conversation, Dr. Ron reflects on his work supporting y...

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 beliefs, our sense of purpose and the choices we make in everyday life, in our personal and work context?...

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 young people engage with their wellbeing. Vivian’s work focuses on helping young people better understand...

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 workplaces and the wider society we’re all navigating? In this episode, we explore the many layers of allysh...

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. What does “Britishness” mean in a society that’s increasingly diverse but also increasingly polarised? How...

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 safety of young people, recognising that protection must extend beyond the home to the spaces where ado...

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 they navigate the journey towards independence, employment and self-belief. Through mentorship, trainin...

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 explore the many faces of loneliness, from the quiet, passing moments of disconnection to the deeper, more...

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 conversation, he blends personal stories, research and local voices to unpack what gentrification really looks...

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 conversation but what does it take to translate that energy into long-term change? We explore the tension betwe...

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 feel loud. But amidst it all, hope persists, not as blind optimism but as a deliberate, powerful act o...

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 and humility, she reflects on the challenges she faced as a Black woman in women's football, the...

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 social impact of menopause, while also challenging the stigma and misinformation that too often surroun...

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 organised, and in many situations, they do just that. But who gets to make them, and who gets left out in the p...

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 one. She speaks honestly about how grief has shaped who she is, her evolving relationship with loss, and...

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, identity formation, and navigating systemic pressures. But how has the experience of being a teenager evolve...

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 standing together across different minoritised groups is more important than ever. From the power of ally...