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 of resistance. In this conversation, we explore how hope shows up in our work, our communities, and o...
Jun 08, 2025•26 min•Season 7Ep. 18
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 progress made since then, and the work that’s still left to do. We talk about identity, representation, a...
May 25, 2025•31 min•Season 7Ep. 17
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 surround it. From hormonal changes and mental health to workplace support and personal relationships, Dr. D...
May 11, 2025•51 min•Season 7Ep. 16
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 process? We explore the fine balance between structure and freedom, and why rethinking the way we des...
Apr 27, 2025•34 min•Season 7Ep. 15
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 how the brilliant charity Eden’s Trust provided a safe and supportive space when she needed it most....
Apr 13, 2025•27 min•Season 7Ep. 14
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 evolved, and what does Adolescence teach us about the ways society shapes (and often fails) young people? ...
Mar 30, 2025•37 min•Season 7Ep. 13
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 allyship to the necessity of intersectional activism, we discuss how communities can resist division and...
Mar 16, 2025•36 min•Season 7Ep. 12
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, adultification bias shapes the way Black children experience education, social care, and the justice system. Jahnine brings her expertise and lived experience to unpack how adultification manifests, the long-ter...
Mar 02, 2025•44 min•Season 7Ep. 11
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 progress. We explore the reasons behind resistance, the emotional and psychological factors at play, and strategies to work more effectively with those who may be reluctant to adapt. Through personal exp...
Feb 16, 2025•28 min
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 making maternity and parenting support more inclusive. Louise shares insights into the work already happening, the impact it’s making, and her hopes for the future. We discuss why equity and inclusion ma...
Feb 02, 2025•31 min•Season 7Ep. 9
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 affects people across the spectrum and shapes workplace dynamics in ways we may not even realise. We explore why this topic is so important, how ageism manifests in the workplace, and what we can all do t...
Jan 19, 2025•30 min•Season 7Ep. 8
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 beyond. She shares her experiences in grassroots organising, her involvement with the Anti-Racist Movement (A.R.M), and reflects on the personal toll this crucial work can take. Lisa also offers her hopes a...
Jan 05, 2025•33 min•Season 7Ep. 7
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 feedback can encourage reflection, whilst poorly handled feedback can create barriers and hinder progress. Curious about how to navigate these often challenging conversations with confidence and empathy? T...
Dec 22, 2024•32 min•Season 7Ep. 6
🌟 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 with Long Covid, and provides invaluable insights on how we can all contribute to creating more inclusive and accessible environments for everyone. Want to learn more about Amy and her impactful work? 📱...
Dec 08, 2024•39 min•Season 7Ep. 5
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 can exclude, discriminate, and undermine the progression of anti-oppressive practices. By examining how words construct meaning and reflect societal values, we emphasise the importance of greater mindfulne...
Nov 24, 2024•29 min•Season 7Ep. 4
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 external, random, or undeserved factors. We explore why this topic is so important, how imposter syndrome impacts us in the workplace, and what others can do to support those navigating their own struggles with...
Nov 10, 2024•39 min•Season 7Ep. 3
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 organisation, discussing the effects of race and racism, the realities of operating with trauma, and his vision for meaningful change. This is a powerful conversation you won’t want to miss! To learn more about the ...
Oct 27, 2024•45 min•Season 7Ep. 2
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 explore what inclusivity means to us and discuss how organisations and teams can foster truly inclusive environments. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us o...
Oct 13, 2024•28 min•Season 7Ep. 1
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 helpful knowledge for you. Thank you for your support this season. We hope you've enjoyed our content. Have a great summer and we'll be back again in the autumn with some brand new conversations for you a...
May 26, 2024•21 min•Season 6Ep. 17
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. In her debut book, along with co-author Nicole Ocran, Emma explores race and identity through the lens of the mixed race experience. Emma joined us to share her thoughts, reflections and perspective on ...
May 12, 2024•40 min•Season 6Ep. 16
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 many people hold a narrow understanding of youth violence, Luke shares his experience and wisdom to help reframe perspectives. There were so many golden nuggets in this episode so we hope you enjoy. Tun...
Apr 28, 2024•54 min•Season 6Ep. 15
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 listen to this informative conversation. if you enjoy this episode then please share with your friends, leave a review and follow The Social Matters Podcast on X, Instagram and Facebook. The handle is @matte...
Apr 14, 2024•30 min•Season 6Ep. 14
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 us in fits of laughter and tears. If you are looking for some joy to pick you up then this is the episode for you. Plus, with April Fool’s Day approaching, this episode really does tick the jokes box! W...
Mar 31, 2024•27 min•Season 6Ep. 13
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 mean to you? Tune in to listen to this reflective conversation. f you enjoy this episode then please share with your friends, leave a review and follow The Social Matters Podcast on X, Instagram and Fac...
Mar 17, 2024•33 min•Season 6Ep. 12
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 acclaimed short film Amani which has now been watched over 4 millions times. He has also produced, Save Me, a social impact short film, which has themes of grooming, child criminal exploitation, and extra fami...
Mar 03, 2024•44 min•Season 6Ep. 11
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 can be their authentic selves? What are some of the barriers to being an Inclusive Leader? If you want to find out more about Hasan's work then check out the links below. https://www.mavericksunlimited....
Feb 18, 2024•44 min•Season 6Ep. 10
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 this insightful and reflective conversation. If you enjoy this episode then please share with your friends, leave a review and follow The Social Matters Podcast on X, Instagram and Facebook. The handle is...
Feb 04, 2024•36 min•Season 6Ep. 9
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 can do we do to address them? Tune in to listen to this informative discussion and share your views. If you enjoy this episode then please share with your friends, leave a review and follow The Social Ma...
Jan 21, 2024•36 min•Season 6Ep. 8
Informative, powerful, inspirational, fun and an important listen! Just some of the words we’d use to describe this episode. Nadia, Fran and Eugene were privileged to be joined by Craig Pinkney. Craig Pinkney is a nationally and internationally recognised Criminologist, Urban Youth Specialist, and esteemed CEO of several organisations, including SOLVE: The Centre for Youth Violence and Conflict and SOLVE Housing, a provider of Ofsted-Registered Children's Homes based in the West Midlands. With o...
Jan 07, 2024•54 min•Season 6Ep. 7
Merry Christmas everyone! We have a fun and informative new episode for you. In this episode, we have our own little christmas celebration and have a discussion about the Social Graces (again!). We share presents, learn more about the 'Wheel of Discussion' created by Collective Space and continue to discuss about our intersecting identities. This is a fantastic way to end the year! If you enjoy this episode the let us know on Instagram and X. Our handle is @matterspodcast. Like, subscribe and sh...
Dec 24, 2023•37 min•Season 6Ep. 6
