The Social Matters Podcast

Nadia, Fran, Eugene

Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social issues from their front room/studio. Expect debate and hard hitting real talk with a sprinkle of top drawer humour to keep it moving.

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20 episodes
Updated April 26

Episodes20

Newest first

April 26 · 46 min
Episode 17 (S8). Connecting With Your Why: The Heart of Social Change
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the idea of “connecting with your why,” and reflect on what this means in the context of social change, challenging discrimination and our own journeys within the DEI space. What does it mean to stay connected to your deeper motivations for doing this work? In spaces where conversations about inequality and discrimination can be complex, emotional and at times overwhelming, how can grounding ourselves in our “why” help us to keep going with intention and integrity? In this episode, we discuss the different reasons that draw people into social change work, and how those motivations can evolve over time. We reflect on our own “whys,” exploring the personal experiences, values and moments that have shaped our commitment to challenging discrimination and working within DEI. We also explore the realities of this work, the tensions, the emotional weight and the risk of disconnection, and consider how reconnecting with our “why” can support resilience, honesty and a deeper sense of purpose. Rather than seeing purpose as something fixed, we think about it as something that shifts, grows and is continually revisited. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own motivations, what drives them to care about social change and how staying connected to that “why” can shape the way they show up in the work and in the world. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
April 12 · 31 min
Episode 15 (S8). More Than a Meal: The Hidden Impact of Breakfast on Young Lives (feat. Dr Ben Dunn)
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Ben Dunn, Head of Impact and Innovation at Magic Breakfast — a charity champion and provide nourishing breakfasts that help children and young people learn and thrive. During our conversation, Ben shares the mission behind Magic Breakfast and reflects on the vital role a nutritious start to the day plays in shaping a child’s ability to learn, connect and thrive. He explores how something as simple as breakfast can have a profound impact on educational outcomes, overall wellbeing, and a lot more! Ben also highlights the long-term impact Magic Breakfast is striving for, and why tackling child hunger is essential to creating a fairer, more inclusive education system. This is a thoughtful conversation about the power of early support and the difference it can make in a child’s life. Ben reminds us that when children are properly nourished, they are better equipped to engage, grow and reach their full potential. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 Website: magicbreakfast.com 📲 Instagram: @magicbreakfast_uk 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
March 29 · 36 min
Episode 15 (S8). Inside the Manosphere: Our Reflections
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the Louis Theroux Netflix documentary 'Inside the Manosphere', reflecting on our reactions, what stood out to us and the wider conversations it raises about masculinity, identity and influence. What is the manosphere, and why is it gaining traction among young boys and men? In a digital world shaped by algorithms, online communities and powerful personalities, how are ideas about gender, power and belonging being formed and reinforced? In this episode, we discuss the key themes from the documentary, unpacking the narratives it presents and the impact these spaces may be having on young people. Drawing on our own perspectives and experiences, we reflect on the appeal of the manosphere, the role of social media, and how messages around masculinity, success and relationships are being communicated and absorbed. We also explore the potential risks and harms, alongside the broader societal context that allows these movements to grow. What responsibilities do we all hold in responding to this? And how can we create space for more balanced, healthy and nuanced conversations about masculinity? This episode invites listeners to think critically about online influence, gender narratives and the importance of supporting young people to navigate complex spaces. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
March 15 · 27 min
Episode 14 (S8). Sitting With Uncertainty
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the systemic concept of safe uncertainty, originally developed by Barry Mason, and reflect on what this idea means within organisations, professional practice and our own experiences in social work. What does it mean for professionals and organisations to hold both safety and uncertainty at the same time? In systems that often prioritise control, answers and certainty, how can curiosity, reflection and openness create space for more thoughtful and ethical practice? In this episode, we discuss how the concept of safe uncertainty can challenge rigid decision-making and encourage organisations to move away from defensive cultures towards environments that value learning, collaboration and reflection. Drawing on our experiences in social work and organisational systems, we explore the tensions between accountability and curiosity, and how fear, risk management and hierarchy can sometimes limit meaningful dialogue. We also reflect on how adopting a stance of safe uncertainty can support better relationships with the people we work alongside, recognising complexity, valuing different perspectives and resisting the pressure to rush towards simple answers in complex situations. This episode invites listeners to think differently about certainty, organisational culture and the importance of curiosity in practice. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
March 1 · 30 min
Episode 13 (S8). Beyond the Pitch: Equality and Representation in Refereeing (feat. Arran Williams and Karan Rai).
In this episode, we’re joined by Arran Williams and Karan Rai from the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the organisation responsible for refereeing across the professional football leagues. During our conversation, Arran and Karan share insight into the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work taking place within PGMO, and why creating a culture of belonging is essential to the future of the game. They reflect on the importance of representation across refereeing pathways, the barriers that have historically limited access, and the practical steps being taken to widen participation and opportunity throughout the leagues. We explore what diversity and inclusion mean in the context of elite sport, the challenges referees can face both on and off the pitch, and how intentional leadership can help shape environments where officials from all backgrounds feel valued, supported and able to thrive. This is an open and thoughtful conversation about culture, representation and long-term change in refereeing in football. Arran and Karan remind us that meaningful inclusion doesn’t happen by accident, it requires commitment, visibility and sustained action. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 LinkedIn: PGMO 📲 Instagram: @fa_pgmol 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
February 15 · 28 min
Episode 12 (S8). The Statements Episode: Agree or Disagree?
In this episode, we open up a conversation around Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) by responding to a series of thought-provoking statements and questions. Rather than offering simple answers, we explore where we agree, where we disagree, and —most importantly — why. Through honest discussion and reflection, we unpack common assumptions, tensions, and misconceptions around EDI. We consider how language, policy, lived experience, and organisational culture shape the way EDI is understood and practiced, and where good intentions can sometimes miss the mark. This episode invites listeners into the nuance behind the headlines, recognising that EDI is not just a checklist or a debate topic, but an evolving commitment that affects real people and real outcomes. We challenge each other’s viewpoints, share practical insights, and reflect on what meaningful inclusion can look like in action. Expect thoughtful dialogue and space to think more deeply about your own position. Tune in, reflect, and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
February 1 · 25 min
Episode 11 (S8). Breaking Cycles of Domestic Abuse: Starting With the Baby (feat. Lauren Seager-Smith)
In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Seager-Smith, CEO of For Baby’s Sake, a pioneering charity working to break cycles of domestic abuse and transform life-chances for whole families — starting with the baby. During our conversation, Lauren shares the vision behind For Baby’s Sake and reflects on why supporting parents is one of the most powerful ways to protect babies and create lasting change. She talks about the importance of early intervention, beginning in pregnancy, and how working compassionately with parents can help families move forward in positive and meaningful ways. We explore how cycles of abuse take hold across generations, the realities faced by families affected by trauma and adversity, and why prevention — not just crisis response — must be central to how we think about safeguarding. Lauren also challenges us to rethink traditional approaches to family support, emphasising the need for empathy, trust and long-term commitment to change. This is a thoughtful conversation about early intervention around domestic abuse. Lauren reminds us that meaningful change starts early, and that it is important to invest support at this stage. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 Website: forbabyssake.org.uk 📲 Instagram: @forbabyssake 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
January 18 · 33 min
Episode 10 (S8). Health Is Not Equal: Confronting Health Inequities
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we take a critical look at health inequities, the unfair and avoidable differences in health outcomes that continue to impact individuals and communities every day. Why do some people live longer, healthier lives simply because of where they’re born, the colour of their skin, or the resources available to them? How do systemic inequality, discrimination, and underfunded services shape who gets access to care, who is heard, and who is left behind? In this episode, we discuss how health inequities are created, sustained, and normalised across our health and social systems. We speak about power, privilege, and responsibility, centring the lived experiences behind the statistics and challenging the narratives that place blame on individuals rather than systems. We also explore what change could look like. This episode will invite you to reflect, question, and act, offering perspectives on how we can move beyond awareness towards justice, equity and collective responsibility for health. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
January 4 · 31 min
Episode 9 (S8). Beyond Trauma: Supporting Lives Affected by Violence (feat. Dr. Ron Dodzro)
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Ron Dodzro, an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder and Director of Psychologists The Streets Deserve (PTSD). With over a decade of experience across health, justice and community settings, Dr. Ron brings powerful insight into the real-world impact of trauma, inequality and violence. During our conversation, Dr. Ron reflects on his work supporting young people affected by trauma and shares the motivation behind setting up Psychologists The Streets Deserve. He talks about how trauma often shows up far beyond the therapy room, the realities of working with people impacted by violence, and why culturally informed, community-based approaches are so important for meaningful healing. Drawing on his research, writing and clinical practice — featured in Forbes, The Voice, The Psychologist and The Clinical Psychology Forum — Dr. Ron challenges us to rethink how trauma is understood, assessed and treated, especially in communities that are too often overlooked. This is a thoughtful and eye-opening conversation about trauma, justice and the importance of listening to lived experience. Dr. Ron reminds us that effective mental health support must be grounded in empathy, equity and community. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 Website: psychologiststhestreetsdeserve.com 📲 Instagram: @theaccessiblepsychologist 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Dec 21, 2025 · 35 min
Episode 8 (S8). Faith in Focus: Exploring Religion and Spirituality Today
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore religion and spirituality, a topic that continues to shape identities, values and the way we understand ourselves and others in an increasingly complex world. What do religion and spirituality mean today? How do they influence our beliefs, our sense of purpose and the choices we make in everyday life, in our personal and work context? In this episode, we unpack the many ways faith, spirituality and personal belief systems show up, from deeply personal practices to their wider impact on communities, workplaces and society. We talk openly about the tensions, misunderstandings and assumptions that can arise around religion and spirituality, as well as the moments of connection, comfort and meaning they can offer. We also reflect on how curiosity, respect and dialogue can help bridge differences and create space for more inclusive conversations. This episode is sure to spark reflection and discussion, offering thoughtful perspectives on how we can engage with religion and spirituality in ways that are open, empathetic and grounded in mutual understanding. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Dec 7, 2025 · 36 min
Episode 7 (S8). The Kamelion app: Youth Mental Health, Reimagined (feat. Vivian Tanaka)
In this episode, we’re joined by the insightful Vivian Tanaka, creator of Kamelion, a gamified mental health and personal development app for 11–18-year-olds. Rooted in Positive Psychology, co-designed with young people, and centred on curiosity and discovery, Kamelion is transforming the way young people engage with their wellbeing. Vivian’s work focuses on helping young people better understand their emotional world through playful learning, personalised pathways and interactive tools that make mental health support feel accessible, relevant and even enjoyable. By putting young people at the heart of the design process, Kamelion offers a space that reflects their voices, their needs and their lived experiences. In our conversation, Vivian shares the spark that led to Kamelion’s creation and why she believes co-design is essential for meaningful youth mental health support. She talks candidly about the challenges young people face today, and how a discovery-led, strengths-based approach can help them in navigating a challenging world. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of young people's voice in shaping the future of mental health support. Vivian’s work shows us that wellbeing grows when young people feel seen, supported and encouraged to explore who they are becoming. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 📲 Instagram: @kamelion_app 🌍 Website: kamelion.co 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Nov 23, 2025 · 28 min
Episode 6 (S8). Allyship in Action
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we discuss allyship almost three years on from our first episode on the topic, a conversation that remains essential for building stronger, fairer communities. What does allyship really mean? How does it show up in our everyday lives, our workplaces and the wider society we’re all navigating? In this episode, we explore the many layers of allyship, from the quiet, intentional actions that make someone feel seen and supported to the bigger, collective efforts that can challenge inequality and drive meaningful change. We talk about why allyship can feel uncomfortable or uncertain at times, and why that discomfort is often part of the learning journey. This episode is sure to get you talking and will leave you with practical approaches we can all take to stand alongside different groups in ways that are genuine, accountable and impactful. This episode is a reminder that allyship isn’t a badge, it’s a continuous practice rooted in empathy, curiosity and action. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Nov 9, 2025 · 37 min
Episode 5 (S8). What Does It Mean to Be British in the Current Climate?
In this episode, we dive into an important and timely question: what does it mean to be British today? Against the backdrop of a rising far-right movement and growing social divides, we explore how ideas of identity, belonging and community are being shaped and challenged in the UK right now. What does “Britishness” mean in a society that’s increasingly diverse but also increasingly polarised? How do we hold onto shared values when fear and exclusion are on the rise? Together, we discuss the current context, the stories, symbols and power dynamics that influence who gets to belong and whose voices are pushed to the margins. Tune in, reflect, and join the conversation. Instagram: @matterspodcast LinkedIn: Social Matters Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Nov 4, 2025 · 1 hr 34 min
BONUS EPISODE. The Next Chapter: Inside the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding
In this episode, The Social Matters Podcast team takes you inside the launch of the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding, a two-day international event hosted by Durham University and created by Professor Carlene Firmin. The Centre marks a new chapter in how we understand and respond to the safety of young people, recognising that protection must extend beyond the home to the spaces where adolescents spend their lives: schools, neighbourhoods, online and among peers. Joined by a remarkable panel of guests whose collective work has shaped safeguarding policy, practice and research across the UK and beyond, this episode brings together: Jimmy Paul, Head of the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit and advocate for public health approaches to preventing violence. Ben Lindsay OBE, founder and CEO of Power the Fight, community leader and social entrepreneur dedicated to tackling violence affecting young people. Jahnine Davis, Director of ListenUp and national expert on adultification bias and the safeguarding of Black children. Luke Billingham, youth worker and researcher focused on social infrastructure, education, and youth policy. Aika Stephenson, solicitor and co-founder of Just for Kids Law, recognised for her pioneering work in youth justice. Professor Carlene Firmin, founder of Contextual Safeguarding and leading researcher on adolescent safety in social contexts. Together, these voices reflect the depth and diversity of the global movement for Contextual Safeguarding uniting research, lived experience, and frontline practice to build safer communities for adolescents everywhere. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow. You can also find out more about the great work at the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding at https://www.contextualsafeguarding.org.uk/
Oct 26, 2025 · 36 min
Episode 4 (S8). Turning Experience into Empowerment. (feat. Jade Barnett)
In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Jade Barnett, co-founder of Power2Prevail, an organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable young people to see that their past and present circumstances don’t define their future. Jade’s work focuses on supporting care-experienced young people as they navigate the journey towards independence, employment and self-belief. Through mentorship, training and storytelling, Power2Prevail helps young people recognise their potential and take ownership of their next steps. In our conversation, Jade shares what inspired her to start Power2Prevail and the real-life challenges many young people in care face when the system expects them to "adult" with limited support. Jade also opens up about her own journey, how her own lived experience has fuelled her passion for creating change, what empowerment really looks like in action, and why giving young people a voice in their own narratives matters so deeply. This episode is another reminder of the importance of belonging, transformation and hope. Jade reminds us that success isn’t about where you start, but the support, courage and belief that carry you forward. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 📲 Instagram: @power2prevail_ 🌍 Website: power2prevail.co.uk 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Oct 12, 2025 · 30 min
Episode 3 (S8). Loneliness: A Quiet Conversation We Need to Have
We’re back with a brand new episode of the Social Matters Podcast! Released just two days after World Mental Health Day, this conversation explores into a topic of loneliness. What does loneliness really mean? How does it show up in our lives, our work and our communities? In this episode, we explore the many faces of loneliness, from the quiet, passing moments of disconnection to the deeper, more enduring experiences that can affect our wellbeing. We talk about why loneliness can be so hard to discuss, even though it’s such a common part of being human. Together, we unpack the stigma that surrounds it, the challenges of naming what we feel and the small but powerful ways we can help ourselves and others feel more connected. This episode is a reminder that loneliness isn’t a weakness, it’s a signal of our need for meaningful connection that's important for us. Tune in, share, and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Sep 28, 2025 · 40 min
Episode 2 (S8). From Hackney, With Love: The Human Cost of Gentrification. (feat Richard Yeboah)
In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Richard Yeboah, author of From Hackney, With Love: An Intimate History of Gentrification. Richard grew up in Hackney and saw first-hand how the area changed. Rising rents, new neighbours, and long-time communities feeling the squeeze. In our conversation, he blends personal stories, research and local voices to unpack what gentrification really looks and feels like. Who gets pushed out? Who gets to move in? And just as importantly, who gets to tell the story of these changes? We talk about what these shifts mean for families, communities and the narrative of Hackney. Richard also reflects on his own relationship with Hackney, how it’s been shaped by love for the borough, what’s been lost, and some questions about the future. Our chat explores how race, class and politics shape urban change, but also points to something bigger: the ways people everywhere are affected when their neighbourhoods transform. This episode isn’t just about buildings or economics, it’s about identity, memory and the fight to belong in the places we call home. Richard reminds us that cities are living, contested and always changing but if we really listen, we can tell fairer, more human stories about them. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 📲 Instagram: @ric_yeboah 🐦 X (formerly Twitter): @ricyeboah 🌍 Website: ricyeboah.com 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Sep 14, 2025 · 35 min
Episode 1 (S8). Moments or Movements? Rethinking Social Change in EDI
We’re back with the first episode of Season 8 of the Social Matters Podcast! To kick things off, we’re jump right into a conversation about the idea of moments vs movements in the context of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). From campaigns to events, moments can spark awareness and conversation but what does it take to translate that energy into long-term change? We explore the tension between short bursts of attention and the ongoing, deeper work of building sustainable movements. Why do some powerful moments fade quickly, while others ignite lasting change? How can we make sure that the momentum of today doesn’t lose its impact in months or years to come? Through examples from everyday life, workplaces, and wider society, we explore how to bridge the gap between inspiration and action. True inclusion and equity require more than performative gestures, they call for commitment, persistence and a willingness to reshape the systems around us. If you’re curious about how to move from one-off moments to meaningful movements, this episode is for you. Tune in, share, and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Jun 8, 2025 · 26 min
Episode 18 (S7). The Quiet Power of Hope
In this final episode of the season, we reflect on the theme of hope: what it means to hold onto it, nurture it, and protect it, especially in times that feel unjust. We’re living in a world where discrimination and division remain ever present, and the noise of those who want to divide can often 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 ourselves. What does it mean to stay hopeful when the headlines say otherwise? How can we hold space for loss and anger while still believing in the possibility of change? We talk about the role of hope in social justice, the quiet power of small actions, and the importance of imagination in building a better future. As we take a short break before returning in the autumn, we leave you with this episode as a reminder: hope is not naive. It is necessary. Tune in, share, and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk
May 25, 2025 · 31 min
Episode 17 (S7). Breaking Barriers in Women’s Football (feat. Kerry Davis)
In this episode, we’re honoured to be joined by a true trailblazer: Kerry Davis, the first Black woman to represent England at football. Kerry shares her incredible journey through the game, from her early days breaking barriers to representing her country on the international stage. With honesty 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, and the fight for equity in football. Kerry’s insights offer a deep, personal perspective on resilience, legacy, and what it means to lead by example in spaces where you’ve had to carve your own path. This conversation isn’t just about football—it’s about visibility, voice, and valuing those who came before. It’s a reminder that history-making often starts with someone's determination and simply refusing to sit on the sidelines. Tune in, share, and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk