Let us inspire you as we interview North East Changemakers; ranging from Community Champions to Social Enterprise Founders to Charity Leaders. They share their origin stories and how make a difference in their community.
So grab a cup of tea and enjoy!
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Données mises à jour le 14/07/2026
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Découvrez des podcasts liées à Chats with Changemakers with Kate Duffy from Junction Point CIC. Explorez des podcasts avec des thèmes, sujets, et formats similaires. Ces similarités sont calculées grâce à des données tangibles, pas d'extrapolations !
Building Resilient Young Minds: Lisa Cryer, BlueJay Wellness CIC
jeudi 26 mars 2026 • Durée 24:23
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Lisa Cryer, a scientist-turned-social entrepreneur dedicated to improving youth mental health and wellbeing through innovative, preventative approaches. Lisa shares her journey from a career in scientific research to education, and ultimately into social enterprise, where she now focuses on empowering young people with tools to support their emotional resilience.
The conversation explores how Lisa’s personal experiences and professional transitions shaped her mission, including her time working in childhood illness research, her passion for teaching, and her eventual move into wellbeing after experiencing burnout. She discusses the founding of BlueJay Wellness CIC, and how the organisation delivers programmes centred around mindfulness, yoga, breathwork, and sensory tools to support early mental health intervention in schools and community settings.
Lisa also reflects on the importance of understanding your “why” as a guiding principle, drawing on frameworks such as Start With Why and Ikigai to explain how purpose can sustain both personal motivation and organisational direction.
Key Takeaways
Lisa Cryer’s journey from scientist to social entrepreneur demonstrates how diverse career experiences can combine to create meaningful social impact.
Early intervention is key in youth mental health, with preventative approaches like mindfulness and yoga helping to build resilience.
Understanding and staying connected to your “why” is essential for sustaining purpose in both personal and professional contexts.
Programmes that incorporate mindfulness, breathwork and sensory tools can support personalised wellbeing for children and young people.
Collaboration over competition strengthens social impact initiatives and enables broader reach within communities.
Creative tools, including storytelling and children’s books, can play an important role in engaging young audiences in mental health awareness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction 00:47 Meet Lisa Cryer 01:28 From Scientist to Educator 03:30 Discovering a Passion for Teaching 04:40 Leaving Teaching & Finding Wellbeing 05:22 Starting BlueJay Wellness CIC 06:30 Supporting Young People’s Mental Health 08:00 Mindfulness in Schools & Sensory Tools 09:00 Working with Different Age Groups 11:30 Measuring Impact & Building Toolkits 14:23 Entrepreneur Journey & Lessons 15:30 The Power of “Why” in Business 16:30 Maze vs Labyrinth Mindset 18:00 How You Can Support Lisa’s Mission 19:00 Children’s Books & Literacy Work 20:00 Collaboration Over Competition 20:58 Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/
How Donated Laptops Are Changing Lives Around the World: Warren Milburn, The Million People Project
jeudi 12 mars 2026 • Durée 23:01
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Warren Milburn, founder of The Million People Project, a social impact initiative working to lift one million people out of digital poverty by 2034 through the donation and refurbishment of laptops. Warren shares how the project began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many families suddenly needed access to technology for remote work, education and essential services but lacked the necessary devices.
The conversation explores how the project has evolved from a local effort in the North East of England into an ambitious international initiative, with partnerships developing in South Africa and previous work in Sierra Leone.
Warren discusses the practical realities of running the project, including sourcing donated laptops, securely wiping and refurbishing devices, and navigating the logistics of delivering technology to communities that need it most.
Warren also reflects on the inspiration behind his work, lessons learned from expanding internationally, and the importance of thinking bigger when it comes to tackling complex social challenges. The episode highlights how access to technology can open doors to education, employment and greater independence for individuals and communities experiencing digital exclusion.
Key Takeaways
The Million People Project was launched during COVID-19 to help families who lacked access to the technology needed for work, education and daily life.
Donating unused laptops can reduce electronic waste while helping people gain access to essential digital tools.
Digital access plays a vital role in enabling people to apply for jobs, access services and build new skills.
How a New York Fashion Exec Built a Food Co-op That Changes Lives: The Sunshine Cooperative
jeudi 26 février 2026 • Durée 23:48
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Claire Wayman, founder of The Sunshine Cooperative, a North East UK social enterprise dedicated to local, organic food and community empowerment.
Claire shares her journey from the fast-paced corporate fashion world in New York to creating a cooperative that supports local producers, engages communities, and builds opportunities for those furthest from the job market.
The discussion explores the challenges of running a social enterprise, including balancing multiple roles, diversifying income streams, and navigating cooperative structures.
Claire also reflects on the importance of adaptability, co-creation with the community, and innovative approaches to building sustainable businesses that generate meaningful social impact.
Key Takeaways
Claire’s transition from corporate fashion to social enterprise was driven by a desire to create purpose-driven work.
Building strong community networks is central to the success of social ventures.
Understanding cooperative structures empowers both founders and members.
Diversifying income streams is crucial for sustainability, especially in high street retail.
Local, organic food can serve as a powerful tool for community engagement.
Adapting to feedback and collaborating with local partners ensures services meet community needs.
Even small wins, like connecting people to food and opportunity, create meaningful impact.
Passion, persistence, and leaning on your network are key to overcoming challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Claire and Her Journey 05:12 The Sunshine Cooperative: Mission and Operations 10:32 Balancing Multiple Roles in a Social Enterprise 12:42 Understanding the Cooperative Structure 16:44 Lessons Learned and Community Support 23:34 Chats with Changemakers 2026 Outro
Transforming Youth in Newcastle: Ibrahim Dumbia on People’s People CIC
jeudi 12 février 2026 • Durée 20:38
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Ibrahim Dumbia, founder of People’s People CIC, a Newcastle-based social enterprise dedicated to engaging young people through sports, recreation, and mentoring programmes. Ibrahim shares his journey from witnessing the impact of antisocial behaviour in his community to creating a platform that empowers youth, builds connections, and promotes positive social change.The discussion explores the challenges of running a community-focused organisation, including funding and sustainability, and highlights the importance of passion, local networks, and responsive programming. Ibrahim also reflects on the organisation’s achievements, the role of volunteers, and how community involvement is central to nurturing lasting impact.Key Takeaways- Ibrahim’s journey was inspired by personal experiences that revealed a need for stronger community support.- Passion and commitment are essential to overcoming challenges as a changemaker.- Understanding the local community is key to designing effective youth programmes.- People’s People CIC uses sports and recreation to engage young people and reduce antisocial behaviour.- Funding and resource limitations are ongoing challenges for small organisations.- Adapting services to feedback ensures they meet the evolving needs of the community.- Even impacting a single young person’s life is a meaningful success.- Sustainability and strategic planning are vital to long-term community impact.- Volunteers and local support networks are critical to growth and delivery.- Ibrahim’s vision includes expanding programmes to reach more communities in needChapters00:00 Introduction and Inspiration03:49 The Mission of People's People CIC06:29 Engaging with the Youth09:45 Challenges and Funding Issues12:33 Lessons Learned and Future Vision14:57 Call to Action and Community Support17:56 Closing Thoughts20:23 Chats with Changemakers 2026 Outro.mp4Useful LinksConnect With The People’s People CIC on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/www.facebook.comthepeoplespeople/Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/● LinkedIn: / kateduffyuk ● Facebook: / junctionpointuk ● Instagram: / junctionpointcic Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/
From Film Enthusiast to Community Leader: Samantha Castro on Newcastle Film Club
jeudi 29 janvier 2026 • Durée 24:02
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Samantha Castro, founder of the Newcastle Film Club, a social enterprise dedicated to community filmmaking, creative collaboration, and grassroots film production in North East England.
Samantha shares her journey from a lifelong film enthusiast to a community leader, highlighting how her passion for film evolved into a platform for inclusive filmmaking and creative skill-building. The discussion covers the club’s mission to make filmmaking accessible, the challenges of running a community-driven social enterprise, and the importance of local support networks in fostering sustainable creative communities. Samantha also offers insights into membership benefits, workshops, networking opportunities, and how collaboration with local organizations enhances growth and impact.
Key Takeaways
Samantha Castro’s journey began with a love for DVD bonus features and film culture.
High school experiences helped her realise that filmmaking could be a career.
Newcastle Film Club provides a supportive community for filmmakers of all levels.
Workshops, networking events, and access to filmmaking resources are core offerings.
The club works to break down barriers to creative participation and encourage inclusivity.
Membership benefits include access to resources, mentorship, and discounted film opportunities.
Transitioning to a company limited by guarantee improved sustainability and governance.
Transforming Waste into Opportunity: Inside Repurposeful CIC with Vicky Morgan
jeudi 15 janvier 2026 • Durée 23:31
This episode of Chats with Changemakers is generously sponsored by the Social Enterprise Academy, who champion leadership and learning for people driving social change. Be sure to check out the links in the show notes for accredited and non-accredited opportunities in your area.
A huge thank you to the Social Enterprise Academy for supporting this series and for their ongoing commitment to helping people grow the skills and confidence to create meaningful impact.
Find Out More About Social Enterprise Academy
https://socialenterprise.academy/
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In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Vicky Morgan, founder of Repurposeful CIC, a Northumberland-based social enterprise focused on creative reuse, sustainability, and community-led impact.
Vicky shares her journey into social entrepreneurship, exploring how a personal search for purpose led to the creation of Repurposeful CIC — a social enterprise tackling waste reduction through a community scrap store, inclusive volunteering, and sustainable growth practices.
The conversation dives into the realities of building a social enterprise from the ground up, including navigating imposter syndrome, developing a growth mindset, and learning how to grow sustainably without burning out. Vicky explains the importance of community engagement, how inclusive volunteering can support people facing barriers to participation, and why flexibility is essential when building values-driven organisations.
Key Takeaways
Repurposeful CIC is a Northumberland-based social enterprise focused on reuse and sustainability.
Vicky Morgan’s journey began with a personal search for purpose and impact.
Starting before everything is figured out is often necessary in social entrepreneurship.
Unlocking Grants with AI: Inside the North East Support Directory: Ben Mushen
jeudi 11 décembre 2025 • Durée 21:53
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy sits down with Ben Mushen, designer-turned-social entrepreneur and founder of the North East Support Directory, an AI-powered, self-service signposting tool that makes finding opportunities relevant to your organisation a breeze.
Ben opens up about his mission to make business opportunities more accessible through technology and AI, and how his personal frustrations sparked the creation of a platform that helps others thrive.
From bootstrapping a tech solution to navigating the world of social enterprise, Ben shares the highs, the hurdles, and the real-world impact his work aims to create.
The conversation dives into the importance of visibility in funding, the power of collaboration, and the role innovation plays in community growth. He also highlights how everyone can support the movement by spreading the word and contributing to a more connected business ecosystem.
Key Takeaways
Ben transitioned from design work into social entrepreneurship.
The North East Support Directory is built to democratize access to business opportunities.
AI helps match users with relevant grants and funding streams.
The platform grew from Ben’s own challenges in accessing support.
Both free and premium options make the tool accessible to startups and founders.
How One Entrepreneur is Transforming Communities in Gateshead: Corrina Mulholland
jeudi 27 novembre 2025 • Durée 25:52
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy interviews Corrina, entrepreneur and founder of the Gateshead Community Organisation, a community interest company focused on social impact. Corrina shares her journey of discovering her entrepreneurial spirit after being diagnosed with ADHD and how her passion for helping others led her to establish a platform for community support. She discusses the challenges faced in starting and running a social enterprise, the importance of having a supportive team, and the lessons learned from past experiences. The conversation highlights the value of collaboration, trust, and structured agreements in creating meaningful social change.
Key Takeaways:
Corrina discovered her entrepreneurial spirit after being diagnosed with ADHD.
Her passion lies in doing what she loves while helping others.
The journey of starting Gateshead Community Organisation was serendipitous.
Community interest companies can be powerful models for social change.
Trusting instincts is important, but having a solid team is crucial.
Past experiences shaped Corrina’s approach to her current business.
Clear agreements help strengthen social enterprises.
Helping others to improve their circumstances is a central principle.
Networking and collaboration are key to success in social enterprises.
Empowering Communities Through Creativity: Ben Jones on Dingy Butterflies CIC
jeudi 13 novembre 2025 • Durée 20:51
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy interviews Ben Jones, founder of Dingy Butterflies CIC, a social enterprise focused on community engagement through the arts. Ben shares his journey from being an artist to establishing a platform that fosters collaboration with local organisations. He discusses the importance of understanding community needs, the challenges faced in social enterprise work, and the impact of collaborative projects aimed at addressing issues like food poverty. The conversation highlights the significance of partnerships and the ongoing struggle for funding in the social enterprise sector.
Key Takeaways:
Collaboration is essential for effective community engagement.
Dingy Butterflies aims to support local communities through art.
Understanding community needs is crucial for social enterprises.
Partnerships with local organisations enhance project impact.
Art can be a powerful tool for community support.
Funding challenges are a common issue for social enterprises.
Engaging with young people is a priority for community projects.
Representation of the North East in funding discussions is vital.
Community work requires navigating different organisational agendas.
Social enterprises must adapt to changing funding landscapes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Passion and Community Engagement
03:03 The Story Behind Dindy Butterflies
06:34 Exploring Community Arts and Collaboration
11:32 Challenges and Opportunities in Community Work
15:42 Call to Action and Future Aspirations
18:39 The Power of True Collaboration
20:28 Challenges in Funding for Social Enterprises
20:36 Outro
Useful Links
Learn more about the Business with Purpose Accelerator
From Pet Parent to Nutrition Expert: Alexia Mellor on Revolutionsing Pet Nutrition
jeudi 30 octobre 2025 • Durée 25:09
In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy chats to Alexia Mellor, who discusses her journey into canine nutrition, driven by her passion for dogs and their health. She shares how her personal experience with her dog, Lucky, led her to create the FETCH framework, which emphasises fresh food and holistic health for dogs.
Alexia also addresses common myths in pet nutrition, the environmental impact of pet care, and the importance of empowering pet owners to make informed decisions. She outlines the vision for FETCH as an ecosystem that supports both pet health and environmental sustainability, and invites changemakers to join her mission.
Key takeaways:
Alexia's journey began with her dog Lucky's health issues.
FETCH aims to improve dog nutrition and health holistically.
The importance of fresh food in canine diets is emphasised.
Pet parents often lack proper nutritional guidance for their pets.
FETCH provides a framework for proactive pet health management.
The 81% campaign addresses the misuse of flea and tick treatments.
Environmental impacts of pet care are a significant concern.
FETCH seeks to educate both pet parents and retailers.
The business model is designed to be an ecosystem of support.
Community involvement is crucial for FETCH's growth and impact.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Passion and Purpose
03:01 The Journey to Canine Nutrition
05:57 The FETCH Framework Explained
08:51 Addressing the Kibble Myth
12:05 Building the FETCH Ecosystem
Expanding social impact initiatives internationally brings challenges around logistics, supply chains and local partnerships.
Refurbishing technology extends the life of devices while ensuring they are safe, secure and ready for reuse.
Collaboration with individuals, businesses and communities is essential to scaling social impact projects.
Thinking bigger about solutions can help organisations create wider and longer-lasting impact.
Even small donations of technology can create meaningful opportunities for individuals and communities.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Values 02:25 How Warren’s Mother Inspires Him 03:55 The Million People Project: Origins and Goals 06:55 Expanding Beyond Local: International Impact 09:58 Challenges and Lessons Learned 12:58 Business Model and Operations 15:46 Eligibility and Call to Action 22:47 Chats with Changemakers 2026 Outro
Useful Links
The soon to be CIC that manages The Million People Project
