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Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn MBE, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Michelle Percy, Chief Executive of Develop North and a leader whose career has spanned property development, local government, and regional investment. Michelle grew up in Whitley Bay after her family moved from Glasgow, worked paper rounds and Saturday jobs before going into secretarial training, and built a career in the built environment without going to university. She became a chartered surveyor through life experience roughly a decade ago, and she now runs a London Stock Exchange-listed company that directs the majority of its investment into the North East of England.

The conversation opens with something most of us have never thought about. Michelle started a pension at 18 on her father's advice and like most of us, didn't look at it. When she finally asked where it was invested, the answer was everywhere except the region she had lived and worked in her entire adult life. For a country where the average worker's pension leaves their payslip each month and disappears into funds managed from London, that is not just Michelle's story. It is almost everyone's.

From there the conversation moves into the built environment and what it actually means to build a place rather than just construct buildings. Michelle draws on her experience with the Stephenson Quarter and Ouseburn to explain why successful regeneration depends on long-term leadership, collaboration between public and private sectors, and designing spaces that work for every generation. She is clear that gentrification happens when places are designed to look the same as everywhere else, and that the antidote is local provenance, community leadership, and commitment that outlasts any single funding cycle.

Devolution, Michelle says, will not deliver growth on its own. What will make the difference is restructuring the financial models that currently concentrate capacity and spending in the civil service in London. She critiques the legacy of PFI contracts that expire and leave the public sector with the liability, and sets out the case for evergreen investment vehicles that are designed to last for generations rather than the length of a contract.

Michelle also raises a question that deserves more airtime than it usually gets. Ten million men in the UK hold investments. The figure for women is 6.7 million. The reasons are structural, from caring responsibilities to the widening pay gap, but Michelle argues that the caution many women feel about investing can itself become a source of financial vulnerability over time. She is honest about her own experience: she did not follow her father's advice to grow her pension, and she is learning now what she wishes she had understood decades ago.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

02:43 Why the North East is home

09:34 Resisting gentrification

15:38 Public and private sectors

28:50 Capital concentration

39:43 Closing thoughts

The thread running through the whole conversation is ownership. Who owns the buildings, who owns the decisions, and who owns the money that could change a region. Michelle Percy's argument is that the capital already exists in the pensions and savings of people living in the North East, and that the job now is to build the structures that keep it here.

Develop North is one attempt at that. The wider question, about whether devolution and regional investment can redirect the flow of capital that has been heading south for decades, belongs to all of us.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Michelle Percy 

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn MBE, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Bianca Robinson, leader of CEO Sleepout UK, the charity that asks business leaders to spend a night outdoors to raise money and attention for the frontline organisations tackling homelessness in their own towns and cities. Bianca has slept out more than a hundred times herself, and she has been saying the same thing for nine years: we blame society, but we are society.

The conversation starts with a number that reframes the whole subject. Rough sleeping is the visible edge of homelessness, and it is a small part of it. Around 385,000 people in the UK are homeless, enough to fill Wembley Stadium four and a half times over, and 175,000 of them are children. Most are in temporary accommodation, on sofas, or in places that are unsafe, and they never appear in a doorway or a headline.

New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to end rough sleeping. Bianca is optimistic, and she is clear about the conditions. It is achievable if Housing First is delivered at scale: a permanent home first, wraparound support for people whose needs are complex, and the agencies around them working together rather than in sequence. She points to Greater Manchester, where Housing First achieved an 85 per cent retention rate, moved 466 people into sustainable accommodation and expanded to more than 600 places, and where regional collaboration made the difference. Finland offers the longer-run evidence that the model holds.

Then the barriers, and this is where the conversation turns on the rest of us. There are not enough homes. Council housing has not been replenished for decades. New building runs into NIMBYism and the uncomfortable question of the green belt. Properties sit empty or are held by investors, and the funding conversation now includes serious voices calling for a wealth tax. Alison and Bianca work through each of these without pretending any of them is simple, or that the answer belongs to someone else's postcode.

Bianca also explains where homelessness actually begins, and where it can be stopped earlier: rent arrears, domestic abuse, release from prison, young people leaving care, the asylum process, mental health and addiction. She takes on the stereotypes about who ends up on the street, the myths about asylum seekers, and the role of trauma in addiction, and describes how CEO Sleepout turns a single night into sustained funding for the people doing the work on the ground.

Timestamps:

00:00 Homelessness is much bigger than rough sleeping

01:03 The Prime Minister's pledge, and why Bianca is hopeful

02:46 What Housing First actually means

05:59 The 382,000 people you never see

12:19 Empty homes, investors and the tax question

15:34 Why council housing has to come back

17:52 Finland and Manchester show it works

20:05 What CEO Sleepout does with a night outdoors

25:00 Changing who we think homeless people are

29:12 Prevention, and the myths

34:31 Angela Rayner and the politics of housing

36:36 Closing thoughts

Ending rough sleeping has been promised before. The difference this time, in Bianca's telling, is that the evidence already exists, some of it in Greater Manchester, about what works. What remains is the decision to build the homes, fund the support, and get the agencies in a room together. None of that is beyond the North, and none of it is someone else's problem.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Bianca Robinson

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn MBE, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Keith Merrin, Director of North East Museums, the organisation responsible for twelve museums across Tyneside and Northumberland, from the Hancock and the Discovery Museum to a former coal mine at Woodhorn and the Roman forts at either end of Hadrian's Wall.

Keith grew up in Jarrow in the 1980s, when worklessness was as high as it had been at the time of the Jarrow March, and the town's story was one of loss. It took him years to learn that in the seventh century Jarrow had been one of the most important centres of learning in Western Europe. That gap, between the story a place is told and the story it actually owns, runs through the whole conversation.

Keith describes how the job has changed. One of his duty managers, thirty years in post, puts it simply: "We're much more like community centres now." That means sessions with refugee and asylum seeker communities who arrive in the North East knowing nothing about where they've landed, memory boxes taken into care homes with staff trained to carry the work on, and the women at the Shipley Art Gallery passing on the craft of clippy mats. It also means confronting the harder history in the collections themselves, objects gathered during the British Empire whose significance to communities living in the North East today demands more thought than the Victorians ever gave it. Keith is direct about repatriation: his organisation would consider returning an object if a source community asked, and in twenty years it has happened once.

The conversation gets specific about money. Most of Keith's museums are free, and free is not enough. He cites National Trust research showing members visiting less often even with entry covered, because the bus fare, the coffee and the gift shop have turned a free day out into something many families cannot afford. Alison shares her own experience of leaning on museums and libraries during the hardest years of raising her family, when free programmes were, in her words, the lifeblood of her parenting. Keith explains the poverty-proofing work with Children North East and the pay-it-forward café tokens his team quietly moves between sites so that nobody has to prove hardship to accept one.

Then there is the imbalance. The national museums, most of them in London, receive the most public funding and have the greatest capacity to raise their own, while councils across England have cut culture spending to the point where many spend nothing on museums at all.

Timestamps: 

00:00 Why museums matter now

01:26 Jarrow, and the story it wasn't told

03:01 The Pitmen Painters

05:12 The Enigma machine and a North Shields hero

09:36 Empire, collections and repatriation

13:35 Five challenges facing the North East

20:03 A sector under pressure

23:48 The North South funding gap

31:48 What excites Keith about the future

This conversation is a reminder that museums are not warehouses for the past. They are where a region keeps the evidence of what it has been and what it could be, and the barriers that keep people out of them, financial, cultural and psychological, are barriers to identity itself. Keith Merrin grew up in a town that was never told its own greatest story. His job now is making sure that stops happening.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Keith Merrin

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn MBE, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Ameera Jamil, founder and CEO of Recultured, who has spent her career supporting victims of forced marriage and honour-based abuse, first on the front line at Karma Nirvana and now training the professionals to recognise the signs and act on them. It is a conversation about a form of abuse that survives on silence, and about the institutions that still have nowhere to record it.

Ameera is precise about what this is, and none of it is comfortable. Honour-based abuse is harm inflicted to restore a family's so-called honour, and the list of what counts as dishonourable has no end, because each family writes its own: make-up, Western clothes, who you marry, whether you marry at all. The stereotypical victim is South Asian and Muslim; the reality reaches into any culture. What victims fear most is disownment; Ameera has had people tell her they would rather be hit than cut off. And where domestic abuse is done by a partner or an ex, honour-based abuse is done by parents, siblings and a community together: a fifteen-year-old fitted for a wedding dress, examined to prove her virginity, and not one adult asking a single question.

Around 3,000 honour-based crimes are reported in the UK each year, a figure practitioners describe as the tip of the iceberg. Ameera's research into universities shows why so much stays hidden. Over ninety per cent have no reporting category for honour-based abuse, forced marriage or FGM. Over sixty per cent offer no specific training. And when a student stops attending, the next of kin the university rings can be the very person who forced the marriage.

This year, for the first time, honour-based abuse was given its own statutory definition in law. On 14 July, the National Day of Memory, campaigned for by Karma Nirvana, remembers everyone lost or harmed in the name of honour. It falls on the birthday of Shafilea Ahmed. She was seventeen when her parents murdered her, and her case is one this conversation returns to more than once. Survivors will speak, stories will be told, and we will remember.

Timestamps:

00:00 The fear worse than violence

01:18 What honour-based abuse actually is

03:45 The tip of the iceberg

09:43 The fear of disownment

11:42 Shafilea Ahmed

17:30 Careful curiosity: the signs professionals miss

36:26 The National Day of Memory, 14 July

39:02 Closing thoughts

Karma Nirvana's map of those killed in the name of honour runs from the top of Scotland to Land's End, and not one of its markers sits in a place that thought this happened there. The question this conversation leaves us with: when someone stops coming in, whose job is it to notice? This conversation is an important one. Ahead of the National Day of Memory on 14 July, give it your time, and share it with anyone who works with young people.

If you or someone you know is at risk, Karma Nirvana's national helpline is 0800 5999 247.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Ameera Jamil

Resources:

• Recultured
• Karma Nirvana
• The Forced Marriage Unit
• Payzee Mahmod TEDx talk

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Ailsa Rutter OBE, director of Fresh and Balance, the organisations that have led the North East's work on tobacco and alcohol for two decades. It is a conversation about a problem many people assume was dealt with years ago, and about how much of the harm that remains lives not in the tobacco itself, but in the stories built around it.

Ailsa grew up in a house where almost everyone smoked. Her mother, her father and her grandmother were all forty a day, and one of her earliest memories is a car journey from Seahouses to Devon in the 1970s, unable to breathe and begging them to stop. By her own account she should have ended up a smoker. Instead she trained as a nurse, watched the same men return to her cardiac ward for a second bypass and then a third while still smoking, and eventually went to university in Brisbane to understand why telling someone to stop is not the same as helping them.

She has spent the years since taking that question apart, work recognised with an OBE and a medal from the World Health Organisation.

Her argument is precise and uncomfortable. Two in three long-term smokers are killed by what they smoke, and no consumer product has ever been invented that is guaranteed to be so lethal.

The filter on a cigarette does nothing to protect you; it was built to look as though it does. Counterfeit tobacco is no more dangerous than the branded packet. Smoking does not relieve stress, it manufactures the very tension it appears to soothe. These myths do their heaviest work in the communities with the least power to take them apart, which is why smoking rates remain highest among the most deprived and those struggling with their mental health.

And yet the North East has cut smoking by 62% in two decades, from the worst rate in England to very nearly the best. From the first of January next year, nobody born after the first of January 2009 will ever legally be sold tobacco, the first policy of its kind anywhere in the world.

Timestamps

00:00 The problem we think we already solved

01:14 From the worst in England to nearly the best

03:29 The myth that every young person vapes

06:07 Alcohol, and the harm we don't see

11:47 The filter that protects nothing

22:24 A smoke-free generation, explained

25:44 Illicit tobacco and the people who police it

29:05 The bill the industry says it pays

33:52 What the North East can learn from elsewhere

35:42 How to help someone you love quit

37:16 Closing thoughts

The question this conversation leaves us with is not whether smoking can be ended, but whether we choose to finish the job. Fresh and the region's directors of public health have named a date: 2040, a smoke-free North East. Knowing what this region has already achieved, Ailsa does not think that is naive. The people owed the truth about tobacco have always been handed the least of it. A generation born after January will grow up never being sold it at all.

If you are worried about someone, or want to stop, the Fresh Quit website is a one-stop shop for stop smoking support across the North East, including stories from people who have done it. Every council in the region funds a free stop smoking service, the NHS now runs a tobacco dependency treatment service for hospital patients, and free digital support is available around the clock through the Smoke Free app.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Ailsa Rutter OBE

Resources:

Fresh Quit

The Tobacco and Vapes Act

Smoke Free App

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Katrina Morley, CEO of Tees Valley Education, and Sean Harris, the trust's Director of Place. Together they have co-authored Tackling Poverty and Disadvantage in Schools, a book that refuses the comfortable myth that low income equals low aspiration and asks educators to be furiously curious about why that lie has held for so long.

Katrina was born in Middlesbrough. She trained as a chemical engineer before swapping careers, much to the consternation of family and friends and she has never looked back. Sean is a Lancaster lad who came to Durham first generation, started youth work in the East and West End of the city, and stayed. The first time a child told him they were going to the toon at the weekend, he had no idea what they meant.

Their argument is simple and uncomfortable. You cannot teach a child out of poverty. Educational inequality cannot be tackled by educational tools alone. Child poverty costs this country an estimated 39 billion pounds a year. We can find the money to pay for the consequences. We have not found the money to prevent them. World Book Day, packed lunch standards, school trips with souvenir shops, ballet classes that require tutus nobody told you to buy. These are not minor inconveniences but the daily architecture of exclusion.

Timestamps:

00:00 The DNA of a Trust

06:42 Five Academies, One Ecosystem

07:32 What Poverty Actually Does to a Child

23:07 Beyond the Crisis Narrative

29:27 Pay It Forward

31:48 People, Place, Policy

34:59 Expanded Free School Meals and Dignity

37:10 What Gives Them Hope

The question we're left with is what does it actually take to give a child in the North East dignity, opportunity, and agency, and who is doing it already. A child cannot wait for policy to catch up.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guests: Katrina Morley + Sean Harris

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Andrew Dunsmure, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Tiny Lives Trust, about his personal experience becoming a father at 28 weeks during COVID, when his newborn son was taken into neonatal intensive care with a brain bleed, uncertain survival, and later long-term disabilities. Andrew describes dissociation, the clinical language of early prognosis, and how he was separated from his wife and son for long periods, leaving both parents with very different and isolating experiences.

A later diagnosis of 22q deletion syndrome followed months of uncertainty and multiple medical issues, including a heart operation. Andrew details the wide-ranging impacts of the condition, developmental delays, growth and feeding issues, anxiety, and potential future mental health risks, and shares the pressure to become an expert in his child's care, the "cliff edge" many families feel after discharge, and the emotional load fathers often carry while trying to hold their family together.

He recounts a breakdown in his son's second year, reflecting on the lack of spaces for fathers to speak openly, and discusses how he has relied on the gym and meditation while also making difficult decisions about boundaries with family and friends. The conversation explores grief alongside love and joy, celebrating small milestones, and his son's personality and interests, including a love of dinosaurs and learning to walk again after foot surgery.

Andrew argues that dads need to talk more, sharing examples of men staying silent for decades, and redefines resilience as allowing yourself to fall apart and recover. He explains how his lived experience led him to Tiny Lives Trust, first as a trustee and then as chair, and outlines the charity's support for families at the RVI neonatal unit, including psychological and physiotherapy support, family groups, and a dads' peer support group. He closes with advice to be kind to yourself, accept that it's okay to fall apart, and embrace honest, realistic support rather than "toxic positivity."

Timestamps:

00:00 A dad's silent trauma

01:48 Emergency birth at 28 weeks

03:02 Clinical language, survival talk, and dissociation

04:09 ICU, brain bleed, and uncertainty

05:11 Coming home and the cliff edge

05:51 22q deletion syndrome

07:35 Becoming the expert

09:44 The crash in year two

11:37 Finding support and living with grief

14:08 Celebrating millimetres, not milestones

15:57 Why dads need to talk more

17:33 Turning pain into purpose

19:37 What Tiny Lives offers families

21:59 Kindness, realism, and toxic positivity

26:47 How to get support or get involved

This conversation is one of the most honest things we've published. Andrew doesn't perform strength, he describes what it actually costs, and why the silence around fathers in these situations helps nobody. If this reaches one dad who's holding it all together and falling apart at the same time, we hope it reminds you that you don't have to do it alone.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Andrew Dunsmure

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Claire Malcolm MBE, founding Chief Executive of New Writing North, the organisation she built from a small startup in 1996 into a nationally recognised force shaping opportunities for writers across the north of England.

Claire grew up working class in York, a passionate reader placed in low sets for English because she was a bad speller. Nobody in her family had been to university. She ended up doing a fine art degree because the system had already decided English wasn't for her. In 1996, when everyone she knew in Leeds was heading to London, she went to Newcastle instead, and decided to put it on the map.

For the first twenty years, New Writing North was about building bridges to London, helping northern writers access the agents, publishers, and deals concentrated in the capital. It worked. But Claire reached a point where she started asking a different question: we are supplying London with brilliant writers, so where is the investment coming back?

The conversation turns to the reading crisis. Only one in five schools in the North East has a school library. Book ownership among children is lower than the national average. Claire makes the case that books were, for her, "the steps out of the place I was from," and that when you strip away the library, the books in the home, and the teacher who takes you seriously, you close the door to everything that comes after.

Claire has now raised £10.5 million to build a Centre for Writing in Newcastle, backed by the public sector, Northumbria University, and the combined authority. Hachette UK, the second biggest publisher in the country, has opened a Newcastle office with 20 staff and together they have launched an MA in publishing. The Centre is due to open in early 2028.

The episode also covers the working-class voices magazine The Bee, youth and community programmes in Newcastle's West End, regional screenwriting, AI and copyright, and what Claire is reading.

Timestamps:

00:00 The reading crisis

01:20 Growing up working class in York

04:31 Reading, wellbeing, and empathy

05:29 Why children lack access to books

07:54 Libraries, loneliness, and connection

09:31 Building bridges to London

11:03 The Centre for Writing in Newcastle

12:14 Regional voices on the global stage

16:52 Working-class voices and The Bee

18:29 The Northern Writers Awards

20:22 Skills programmes in libraries

21:31 Youth partnerships and Excelsior Academy

25:54 Screenwriting in the North East 

28:39 The Booker Prize and what Claire is reading

37:49 Legacy and the Centre for Writing

This conversation is a reminder that who gets taken seriously as a writer, a reader, or a person with something to say is still shaped by class, geography, and access. Claire Malcolm has spent nearly thirty years proving that the talent was always here. Now she is building the infrastructure to match it.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Claire Malcolm MBE

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Sarah Breeden, Deputy Governor for Financial Stability at the Bank of England and member of the Monetary Policy Committee. Sarah grew up in Stockport, went to the local comprehensive, and has spent the last 34 years at the Bank. She describes her childhood as "bog standard, northern, normal", and her journey from putting parsley on airline meals at Manchester Airport to becoming one of six people in the Bank's senior leadership team.

Sarah reflects on the work ethic instilled by her parents, both local government workers, and the commitment to public service that has driven her career: "Not for money. Because it makes a difference." She describes what it was like to be on the phone to Northern Rock directors as the queues formed outside, the reforms that followed the financial crisis, and why a resilient banking system matters not for the banks themselves but for the businesses and households that depend on them.

As a member of the MPC, Sarah explains how interest rate decisions are made, not based on where inflation is today, but where it will be in two years, and why the Bank spends weeks each year visiting businesses around the country, from Cardiff to Newcastle, gathering on-the-ground intelligence on sales, wages, hiring and prices. The MPC announces its latest decision on Thursday and Sarah is one of the people making it. She discusses why food inflation hits harder than any other kind, how global commodity shocks, wage costs and packaging regulations are driving prices up, and why deflation (not just inflation) is something western economies guard against.

The conversation turns to economic literacy and who gets access to it. Sarah describes citizens' panels where, after a single conversation about how the economy works, one woman said: "If I'd known that, that would've affected my vote." With only 1% of economics degree students coming from the North East, Sarah makes the case for the Bank's expansion into Leeds and its regional presence in Newcastle, not just to access talent, but to hear the voices that should be shaping policy.

Sarah also discusses the progression of women in the Bank's leadership, having founded its women's network in 2007 and co-chaired it for eight years. The senior team is now 50/50, but she is candid that the layer below is not bringing women through at the rate she had hoped. The episode also covers digital money and stablecoins versus Bitcoin, and why cyber risk is now the thing that keeps her most awake at night.

Timestamps:

00:00 Why stability matters

01:20 Stockport roots and a "bog standard" childhood

03:47 Finding economics

05:17 Airline meals, pubs, and the Protestant work ethic

07:06 Joining the Bank of England

10:50 Fixing the system after the financial crisis

13:20 How interest rates are set

15:43 What businesses are saying now

18:08 A small open economy in a volatile world

19:24 Four pints of milk: food prices explained

23:45 "If I'd known that, it would've affected my vote"

26:59 Women in economics and the Bank's leadership

31:24 Digital money demystified

35:58 Cyber risk rising

37:50 Building the Bank beyond London

39:50 What still drives her after 34 years

This conversation is a reminder that the decisions made at the Bank of England affect every household in the country, and that who understands economics, who gets taught it, and who is in the room when those decisions are made are not separate questions. Sarah Breeden is proof that a girl from a Stockport comprehensive can end up setting interest rates. The question is why, given the pipeline, she still largely remains an outlier.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Sarah Breeden

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Sir Nigel Wilson, Chairperson of the Canary Wharf Group and former longtime CEO of Legal & General, and an advocate of "inclusive capitalism." Nigel reflects on growing up in County Durham, his belief that the UK must be bolder in seizing opportunities, and his view that Newcastle and the wider region have "muddled through" due to a lack of leadership, investment, and ambition.

He compares the UK's pace of change with the US and China, argues that robotics and automation will help drive growth, and highlights UK strengths including world-leading creative industries and top universities, several of them in the North, while criticising over-regulation and a lack of incentivisation.

Nigel outlines his path from Essex University to MIT on a Kennedy Scholarship, a pivotal moment that moved him from academia to McKinsey, and reflects on generational advantages like free university education and cheaper housing, arguing his generation needs to give back by supporting younger people with jobs that pay real wages.

The conversation explores inclusive capitalism as the opposite of "exclusive capitalism", broad access to skills, capital, and support so more people can build and scale businesses. Nigel explains why he deliberately pushed for investment outside London, argues the UK economy won't grow unless towns and cities beyond London grow, and says "levelling up" was never implemented meaningfully. He believes the world is "awash with money," but the UK is failing to connect private capital with productive regional opportunities.

He shares examples of how US states actively courted investment, discusses the importance of networks among devolved mayors, and draws lessons from leading Canary Wharf (Europe's biggest regeneration project). He also explains why he prefers business over politics, calling HS2 a poor capital allocation versus investing in intra-city transport across northern cities.

Looking ahead, Nigel says the North could become home to some of the best cities in the world, pointing to rapid transformations like Shenzhen and Austin. He references initiatives including Sunderland's battery factory and a data-centric project in Blyth, but argues the region needs much more entrepreneurial activity and better access to capital.

Timestamps:

00:00 Leadership, investment, and ambition

01:26 Growing up in County Durham

01:59 Optimism as a mindset

02:45 UK vs China and the US

04:05 From Essex to MIT to McKinsey

05:58 A selfish generation?

06:58 Leadership and mentors

07:55 Why it's easier than ever to start up

08:57 What is inclusive capitalism?

10:05 Beyond London

11:32 Private capital vs public leadership

14:04 What northern cities need

16:17 Mayors, networks, and learning from America

17:20 Proving it works

21:20 The North in 10–20 years

This conversation is a reminder that the money exists, the talent exists, and the ambition exists and what's missing is the will to connect them. Sir Nigel Wilson makes the case that the North isn't a charity case, it's an investment opportunity the UK keeps ignoring.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Sir Nigel Wilson

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn.

In this episode, Alison is joined by Dominic Wills, who shares his experience of addiction and how recovery as a young person can look different to the stereotypes. Dominic explains how drugs were readily available through friends and later via social media, and how his use progressed from cannabis and MDMA to "anything" he could access. Despite continuing to achieve at school and maintaining an outward appearance of coping, he describes being rarely sober in school, the impact of ADHD, and how addiction fuelled deception, debt, and serious strains on family relationships, including fears for his safety and missing person reports.

Dominic reflects on seeking support from around the age of 14 through local authority drug and alcohol services and later adult services, but feeling that services often didn't reflect his situation as a young person who wasn't injecting or involved in the criminal justice system.

He describes how leaving school removed structure and led to escalation, and how in late 2019 he first encountered peer-led recovery models that showed him people, especially young people, can get clean and live well. After a severe spiral over Christmas 2019, he went to rehab for two months and says that's when he began taking recovery seriously.

The conversation also explores stigma, why visible recovery matters, and Dominic's view that alcohol and drugs are often treated inconsistently in policy and public attitudes.

He discusses decriminalisation vs legalisation, the risks of street drugs, and argues that criminalising personal possession is unproductive. Dominic shares how peer support and different recovery models helped him rebuild responsibility and trust, and what he would say to someone "functioning" but quietly struggling.

Dominic closes by describing what recovery has enabled for him as a young person, going to uni, living with students, DJing, going on holiday, and still spending time with friends in pubs, emphasising that recovery should be a tool to reclaim life rather than a boundary that keeps people trapped.

Timestamps:

00:00 Drugs at 14

00:33 A young voice changing the recovery narrative

01:07 How it started

01:43 Seeking it out and why he kept using

04:23 Functioning addiction

06:39 Trying to stop early and not being ready

08:08 ADHD and addiction

08:52 Why recovery felt impossible

10:14 Turning point: Peer-led recovery, rehab, and taking it seriously

11:04 When systems miss you: Age, privilege, and not being 'the right kind' of addict

12:25 Alcohol vs drugs: Generational divide and why the comparison matters

14:56 The damage to family & rebuilding trust through responsibility

16:59 What helped

19:07 Drug policy in the UK

28:19 Advice for 'functioning' addiction

29:39 Recovery

This conversation is a challenge to every assumption we hold about what addiction looks like, who it affects, and what recovery can be. Dominic is honest, sharp, and proof that young people deserve to be heard and not fitted into a system that wasn't built for them.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Dominic Wills

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Richard O'Neill MBE - storyteller, author, playwright, and Professor in Practice at Durham University. For centuries, Richard's Romani traveller ancestors were story keepers in the Northeast, travelling from Newcastle to Yorkshire to Carlisle, listening to stories in villages and towns, then carrying them forward. They were, as Richard puts it, "illiterate in reading and writing, but incredibly literate in communication."

But this conversation isn't just about oral tradition. It's about discovering that words Alison has spoken her entire life - "gadji," "chav," "chavi" - come from Romani. Evidence of centuries woven into the Geordie dialect itself. It's about why Richard's musician friend couldn't grasp the concept of chatting to a stranger at a Morrisons checkout. "We are story people here," Richard explains. And it's about why Richard refused a million pounds to appear on reality TV that embeds stereotypes rather than documents real lives.

Richard and Alison explore why the Northeast has a rhythm to its speech that makes storytelling natural, how a 3-year-old and 103-year-old laughed at the same things during a care home storytelling session, and why teaching children how narrative works is our defense against misinformation. They discuss AI as "the new steam," Richard's accidental career that started with one phone call, and the most powerful story Richard tells, a beautiful story about empathy and individual decency. A reminder that when stories are told from the heart, they change how we see each other. Those are the stories we keep.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:30 Traveller Identity and Story Keeping

04:20 Storytelling in Education

07:26 The Traveller Community

10:47 Media Stereotypes

16:47 Storytelling in the Age of AI

21:16 Richard's Journey as a Storyteller

27:37 The Most Powerful Story

2026 is the National Year of Reading, and Richard's work at Seven Stories reminds us why that matters.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Richard O'Neill MBE

Learn more: Seven Stories, Newcastle - sevenstories.org.uk

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

One in 29 children in every classroom have been bereaved of a parent or sibling, carrying grief that most adults struggle to talk about. Meanwhile, in medical training, there's a belief that "as healthcare professionals, we all feel a profound sense of failure when one of our patients dies." Over the last hundred years, death moved from homes to hospitals. We handed it to professionals. In doing so, we lost the language, the confidence, and the community knowledge that once made dying something we did together.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Julian Prior from Compassionate Gateshead, Dr. Elizabeth Woods, a palliative care consultant, and Karen Perry, an end-of-life doula, to have the conversation we're often too scared to have: what happens when we lose the ability to talk about death? Their conversation reveals families who no longer recognise the signs of dying. People told their loved one is dying four, five, six times, each time treatment works, feeding a cycle that says you can fix this.

The conversation captures what policy discussions miss. Death cafes in Newcastle that fill up every month, where strangers cut through small talk in minutes to discuss what they lack in their daily lives: depth, meaning, honest conversation about mortality. Community knowledge that used to exist on every street, now having to be taught by consultants walking families through what normal dying actually looks like.

Alison and her guests explore what happens when we can't say the word "died," why medication struggles to control what fear is doing, and how communities are remembering that dying isn't something we fear alone but something we face together. They discuss the inequalities that compound at end of life—the cost of wills, lasting powers of attorney, funerals arriving when families are already struggling. Why teachers need resources to support that one child in every classroom carrying grief.

The conversation examines what Compassionate Gateshead is building: a network connecting organisations supporting asylum seekers, people with dementia, young people who've lost loved ones, workplaces trying to support bereaved employees. The Festival of Compassion running all February with workshops, films, and death cafes creating permission and space to talk.

Death will happen to us all. The question is whether we'll face it alone, unprepared, fearful and silent, or whether we'll face it together, with language, with confidence, with community.

Timestamps: 

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Understanding End-of-Life Doulas

03:38 Building Compassionate Communities

07:02 The Medicalisation of Death

10:34 What Families Actually Fear

13:01 What Normal Dying Looks Like

18:18 Death Cafes and Community Spaces

26:56 Inequalities That Compound

40:12 The Festival of Compassion

41:49 Final Reflections

Host: Alison Dunn

Guests: Julian Prior, Dr. Elizabeth Woods, Karen Perry

Learn more about Compassionate Gateshead and the Festival of Compassion here.

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

109 children are pulled into poverty every single day by the two-child benefit cap. That's three primary school classes. Daily. In November's Autumn Budget, that policy was scrapped, lifting 350,000 children out of poverty, including 70,000 in the Northeast. But scrapping the cap doesn't fix the childcare infrastructure that's still broken.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Amanda Bailey of the Northeast Child Poverty Commission, Ang Broadbridge of Ways to Wellness, and Dr. Steph Scott from Newcastle University to discuss their new research on childcare in the Northeast. What they found reveals a system that traps families: you need to be employed to access childcare, but you need childcare to be employed. For families on low incomes, there's no way out.

The research captures stories that policy discussions often miss. A mother who gave up work, relying on her own mum for childcare, describing her mum "moaning all the time", not about inconvenience, but about a relationship fraying when something is both a favour and a financial necessity. Parents who feel "punished for wanting to work," guilty no matter which choice they make. Childcare providers running food banks for their own staff. As one participant put it: "We pay people more to care for our coffee than we do to care for our children."

Alison and her guests explore what happens when childcare doesn't exist for children with complex medical needs, why holiday provision creates impossible choices for working parents, and how informal childcare arrangements (grandparents, family members), hold the system together while fraying under the weight. They discuss the mental health toll on parents, the workforce crisis facing childcare providers, and why this isn't just about the early years but extends through school age.

The conversation examines what regional leadership can do, why current support schemes feel impossibly complicated to navigate, and what it means to view childcare as essential infrastructure, not a luxury, but a foundation for family incomes, children's development, and economic stability.

Child poverty costs this country £39bn annually. The cap cost £3bn to scrap. The question isn't whether we can afford to invest in children and families. It's whether we can afford not to.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:00 The Impact and Challenges in Childcare

12:56 Complexities of the Childcare System

26:56 Policy Implications and Recommendations

Host: Alison Dunn

Guests: Amanda Bailey, Ang Broadbridge, Dr. Steph Scott

Read the full research report here.

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Ray Laidlaw, founding drummer of Lindisfarne, the band whose songs became anthems of the Northeast. In 1971, their album Fog on the Tyne became the biggest-selling record in the UK. Success brought tours across Germany, Scandinavia, Australia, and America. But it also brought tension about what came next. Ray's story reveals the complexity at the heart of Lindisfarne's journey, the creative process that made their music work and how, in 1973, they split, not through acrimony, but through different priorities and how they would ultimately be brought back together.

But this conversation isn't just about rock and roll. It's about what Ray helped build after the tours: Sunday for Sammy, named for Sammy Johnson, a working-class lad from Gateshead and actor who sadly died aged just 49 whilst training for the Great North Run. What started as a one-off tribute in 1999 is now a variety show that sells 6,000 tickets at the Utilita Arena. Since 2006, Ray has produced every show, keeping ticket prices affordable because, as he says, "we've always seen it as a working-class people's show." The charity has also given away over £700,000, not in massive grants, but in the amounts that actually matter: bus fare to London auditions, a decent bow for a cello, three months' rent to finish writing a play.

Ray and Alison discuss why the show nearly died, how the first tribute brought Auf Wiedersehen Pet's Dennis, Oz, and Neville to the stage for the first time ever (and convinced the BBC to bring the series back), and what it means to create what Oscar Wilde called "the nightly miracle". They explore how a grant to finish one play about Category D villages created a touring circuit that didn't exist before, why working-class kids face impossible barriers, and what happened when Lindisfarne returned to Newcastle City Hall in 1976 after splitting up.

Timestamps:

00:45 Introducing Ray Laidlaw

03:52 The Rise of Lindisfarne: From Blues Covers to Anthems

05:39 Touring the World

10:12 Band Breakups, Reunions, and Staying Friends

13:09 Sunday for Sammy: From Tribute to Movement

17:08 Why the Arts Need Support More Than Ever

17:38 Success Stories: Rosie Ramsey, Emily Hoyle, Jason Cook

22:33 The Ripple Effect

24:23 The Bottom Rung of the Ladder

28:05 Advice for Young Performers

After five decades in music, Ray's conviction remains clear: resilience, kindness, and community matter more than fame. When the bottom rung of the ladder is missing, someone has to build it back. Sunday for Sammy returns February 15th, 2026. Tickets available here.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Ray Laidlaw

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Juliet Sanders, founder and CEO of Feeding Families, a charity born from a single act of kindness in 2016 that has grown into a regional lifeline feeding tens of thousands across the Northeast.

It started with two unwanted sofas. When Juliet delivered them to a house in Gateshead, what she found stopped her in her tracks: five children under seven, no furniture, and a mother who wrapped empty boxes for Christmas because she had nothing to give them. "We came out of the house and thought, what do we do? We can't just walk away."

When Juliet posted on social media asking if anyone needed help, 200 people responded within an hour. Crucially, it wasn't just people asking for help, it was people saying "If I knew who to help, I would help." She thought maybe they could support 50 families that first Christmas. They supported 719.

Today, Feeding Families works with 366 partner organisations, providing food, toiletries, and culturally appropriate provisions to families who fall through every other safety net. A Newcastle school discovered children weren't attending because they couldn't maintain basic hygiene. When Feeding Families provided soap and deodorant, attendance improved.

Juliet opens up about her own challenging experiences, living on a bag of pasta, surviving domestic violence, and discovering ten siblings she never knew existed through Ancestry. "When you've been in really difficult situations, there's nothing really left to fear."

They explore systemic issues driving food insecurity, including the two-child benefit cap, and why many struggling families are actually in work. Juliet articulates her vision for policy changes but is brutally honest about the limits of charity: "I can only put a sticking plaster on a gaping wound."

As Juliet prepares to retire, she reflects on founder syndrome with remarkable self-awareness: "The work matters more than ego."

Timestamps: 

00:00 A Chance Encounter Sparks a Movement

01:18 Introducing Juliet Sanders and Feeding Families

01:55 The Birth of Feeding Families

06:24 The First Christmas Miracle

07:44 Scaling Up: From One Family to Thousands

10:01 Challenges and Changes in the Northeast

13:24 The Unique Model of Feeding Families

17:03 Addressing Cultural Needs and Inclusivity

20:49 Juliet's Personal Journey: Adoption and Family

24:54 A Tragic Loss and a New Hope

25:18 Reuniting with Siblings

26:54 Discovering More Family

31:03 Leading an Organisation

37:00 A Unique Qualification

39:04 Challenges and Resilience

41:49 Addressing Food Insecurity

47:59 A Call to Action

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Juliet Sanders

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

How You Can Help: Visit feedingfamilies.org.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Jimmy McLaughlin OBE on the fifth anniversary of his podcast 'Jimmy's Jobs of the Future' - a show that went from stay-at-home dad project to interviewing prime ministers about the question Westminster struggles to answer: where are all these new jobs actually coming from?

When Jimmy worked at Number 10, he'd get calls at 10 to 8 in the morning. Debenhams collapsing. Wilkinson's going under. Ten thousand jobs gone. He'd brief Theresa May, who kept asking: "We're at record employment. You only tell me about losses. Where's the growth?" The answer was one or two people hired every week by companies like Gym Shark in Birmingham or Double 11 in Middlesbrough. Businesses creating seven out of every eight jobs in Britain but never making announcements because they're too busy building.

Five years and millions of listeners later, Jimmy walked back into Number 10 to interview Sir Keir Starmer. Same building. Same question. Different answer: nearly a million young people under 25 now aren't in education or work.

Jimmy and Alison discuss why businesses won't hire graduates this year, how AI might devastate middle-class professionals while skilled trades see wages double, and why we're asking 16-year-olds to choose careers before they're ready. They explore the Northern golden triangle, what devolution delivers, and what five years taught Jimmy about why work matters not just for income, but for dignity, purpose, and possibility.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Jimmy McLaughlin 

00:40 The Genesis of Jimmy's Jobs of the Future 

01:45 Insights from Number 10 

03:02 Highlighting Northern Companies 

10:44 Impact of AI on Jobs 

18:44 Opportunities and Challenges in the North 

22:56 Collaborating in Politics 

23:49 The Future of Education and Jobs 

26:44 AI and Social Inequality 

32:11 Challenges for the Younger Generation 

35:58 Podcasting Insights and Evolution 

42:37 Reflections and Motivations

After five years and millions of listeners, Jimmy's conviction remains clear: work isn't just about income. It's about dignity, purpose, and possibility. A million young people need not just jobs, but futures.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Jimmy McLaughlin OBE 

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Sir Andy Street, a Conservative who spent seven years proving something Westminster insists is impossible: that cross-party collaboration actually works. Street never had a Conservative majority on his board. Fourteen Conservative MPs, fourteen Labour MPs, and for seven years every single financial decision was taken cross-party. When his own government tried to cancel HS2, he held a press conference outside then-PM Rishi Sunak's hotel and led the 10 o'clock news. Region first, party second.

From being rejected by Birmingham City Council and Marks & Spencer to spending 30 years rising to CEO of John Lewis, Street's path wasn't conventional. He joined John Lewis because they hired "mavericks." He became mayor because it was "an executive job rooted in a place."

Street speaks candidly about "the Rubicon moment", fiscal devolution, holding taxes locally and what he learnt from those seven years. Now chairing Birmingham Rep, he draws parallels with the North: "Newcastle has its proud tradition. You had shipbuilding, coal mining. We didn't. But the stories are basically the same. You need to understand your past to be able to plan your future."

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:23 Sir Andy Street's Early Career and Aspirations

02:15 Joining and Growing within John Lewis

02:46 The Mutual Model of John Lewis

03:33 Challenges and Successes in Retail

07:11 Transition from Retail to Politics

09:43 The Role and Impact of a Mayor

11:25 HS2 and Infrastructure Challenges

16:53 Reflections on Mayoral Achievements

18:23 Integrity in Leadership

19:21 Challenges of National Collaboration

20:37 The Evolution of Devolution

21:57 Fiscal Devolution and Political Regrets

23:12 Conservative Party Conference Insights

31:05 The Role of Arts and Culture

35:05 Future Prospects and Personal Reflections

36:40 Advice for the Next Generation

In an era when frustration is rising and voices offering complaints without solutions are gaining ground, Street's story reminds us what leadership should look like. Values-led leaders who put people and place before party, who understand that serious problems require serious answers, and who refuse to compromise their integrity for political convenience. Seven years proved what's possible when leaders refuse to compromise their values. The question now is whether we're ready to demand that kind of leadership everywhere.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Sir Andy Street

This podcast is produced by  Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Dr. Mark Deeks — a North East musician whose work spans atmospheric doom metal, community choirs, and wellbeing retreats. Mark shares his personal journey through loss, including the heartbreak of losing his daughter Laurie at 20 weeks, and how music became both a memorial and a tool for survival. At 3am one morning, a star chart in Lori’s name became a melody — hidden on his album as Only Three Shall Know, but known at home as Laurie’s Theme.

From early influences and teaching experiences to founding Sing United, which has raised over £48,000 for Northern causes, Deeks shows how music works as connection, healing, and community. He challenges clichés about “soothing” genres, champions intentional playlists as mental health interventions, and explains why place — from colliery sites to Holy Island — can shape the way we heal.

00:00 A Heartbreaking Beginning

01:19 Meet Dr. Mark Deeks: Musician and Healer

01:53 Early Musical Influences

03:37 The Impact of Teaching and Online Lessons

08:11 Music as a Tool for Wellbeing

11:32 The Power of Community Singing

15:22 Exploring Diverse Musical Styles

21:09 Personal Loss and Musical Tribute (Laurie’s Theme)

29:08 Future Projects and Final Reflections

Deeks reminds us that grief isn’t just private sorrow, it’s a public health crisis often left unspoken, especially for men. His story is proof that the North already holds the tools we need: community, creativity, and the courage to listen.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Dr. Mark Deeks

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Eileen Ferguson, co-founder of Ad Gefrin, Northumberland's first whiskey distillery, who turned a derelict family transport depot into a £4million+ cultural destination that employs 60 people in a town where young adults typically plan their escape.

Ferguson's story begins with her great-grandmother, widowed at 36 with three children already buried and pregnant with her sixth. Standing at the graveside with no inheritance or support, she started taking in washing, then bought a corn mill, then owned the farm. Four generations later, Ferguson faced a similar choice with the family's abandoned depot: sell it for housing or build something that could regenerate Wooler.

The numbers reveal what traditional rural development misses. During public consultation, 4,000 people walked through the doors —double Wooler's population—because someone finally asked what they wanted. One hundred percent community support. Not for a distillery, but for what a distillery made possible: five interconnected businesses including tourism, hospitality, retail, and a museum celebrating the Anglo-Saxon palace that once stood nearby.

Timestamps: 

00:00 A Legacy of Resilience 

02:30 Introducing Eileen Ferguson and Ad Gefrin

04:29 Transforming a Family Site 

07:47 The Importance of People and Community 

11:48 Community Response and Impact 

16:42 Environmental Considerations 

18:28 Challenges and Achievements 

24:46 Future Vision and Legacy

Ferguson accidentally proved that rural areas don't need saving, they need someone who refuses to accept that they deserve less. When a place has been "forgotten by successive governments," the choice is simple: wait for systems to save you, or build the system you need.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Eileen Ferguson

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Mark Squires, a business leader and philanthropist who became a trustee after witnessing young people "flooding" into a mid-Victorian building because "they've got nowhere else to go," and Ben Roman, Chief Executive of the Lighthouse Project, who transformed St. Michael's Church in Byker, Newcastle into a £4.2 million youth and community hub. Through community consultation and architectural innovation, they've created something that addresses both the heritage of the building and the urgent needs of families who've been failed by fragmented support systems.

The Lighthouse Project represents something more fundamental than renovation—it's a complete rethinking of how support reaches families. Where most systems send people from office to office, appointment to appointment, the Lighthouse Project brings services together under one roof. A parent seeking housing help might also find job training, digital literacy classes, and childcare in the same space.

This isn't charity, it's recognition that communities need somewhere to call home. British Engines committed ten years of funding, Ringtons pledged five years of revenue support.

Timestamps: 

00:00 Opening the Doors to a New Community Hub

01:34 The Heart of Byker: A Community's Story

02:59 Transforming a Historic Church

07:20 Community Involvement and Feedback

21:32 The Role of Business in Community Development

26:10 Looking to the Future

The episode underscores how heritage, community needs, and innovative solutions can empower residents and foster genuine community spirit. When a young boy walked through the doors for the first time and asked his teacher, "Is this a five-star luxury hotel?", he wasn't confused, he was recognising something his community had never seen before: a place built to their potential, not their problems.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guests: Mark Squires & Ben Roman

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the This Is The North podcast, your source of transformative conversations — an intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by the Society Matters Foundation and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Mark Ferguson, Member of Parliament for Gateshead Central and Whickham. A proud son of Gateshead, Mark brings a fresh, grounded, and passionate voice to Parliament — shaped by lived experience, public service, and a deep belief in the power of education, fairness, and hope.

The conversation explores the rise of the Reform Party and the growing political disillusionment that many in the North feel after years of broken promises. Mark reflects on the long shadow cast by the 2008 global financial crisis, the shifting role of the Labour Party, and why restoring trust in politics requires more than policy — it demands proximity, honesty, and humility. Mark also shares his personal story — from a Gateshead comprehensive to Cambridge — and the teachers who changed his life. He makes a powerful case for the Employment Rights Bill, a landmark piece of legislation aiming to raise pay, improve conditions, and restore dignity to working people. This episode also touches on the toxic abuse facing women in public life, the need for safe online spaces, and how Gateshead is leaning into its strengths: green energy, digital innovation, and community resilience. Through it all, Mark’s message is clear — the North doesn’t need favours. It needs fairness, focus, and the freedom to shape its own future.

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

00:58 – Mark Ferguson: Growing up in Gateshead and finding purpose

03:24 – Social media, abuse, and modern political pressures

04:35 – Education, aspiration and the power of belief

05:32 – Why Mark entered politics and what Labour must stand for

07:23 – Gateshead’s potential: digital, green, and global

12:47 – The Employment Rights Bill: restoring dignity at work

19:50 – Trade unions, Labour values, and frontline workers

23:39 – Angela Rayner, misogyny, and being a woman in public life

26:40 – Looking ahead: Mark’s hopes for the region and beyond

Key Themes:

• Political alienation & the rise of Reform UK
• Labour’s identity crisis and opportunity for renewal
• From state school to Westminster: Mark’s personal journey
• Employment Rights Bill & the dignity of work
• Green energy & digital ambition in Gateshead

This episode offers an urgent and honest reflection on the state of our politics, the value of public service, and what it will take to build a fairer, more connected future for the North. In a moment where the country is looking for answers, Mark Ferguson reminds us that change starts with listening — and leads with courage.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now and share with someone who believes in a North that works for everyone. Help amplify the voices shaping the future of our region.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Mark Ferguson MP

Produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Professor Mike Waring, Chair of Medicinal Chemistry, and Professor Akane Kawamura, a Professor of Chemical Biology at Newcastle University. What starts as a conversation about drug discovery becomes a story about human impact, regional potential, and where life-saving innovation happens.

Professor Waring's office wall tells a story. Framed like a diploma hangs a handwritten letter from a stranger in France—a man with lung cancer who'd been told there was no treatment. His terror wasn't about dying. It was about leaving his disabled wife alone. Traditional chemotherapy would render him too weak to be her carer, and without him, she had nobody. Then came the phone call that changed everything. A doctor had spotted a genetic marker that made him eligible for an experimental drug—one that had started as chemical equations scribbled on whiteboards in Newcastle by Mike's team. "Now he takes a once-daily pill," Mike says, "and he's alive and healthy enough to look after the person he loves most."

That drug represents something remarkable happening in the North. Newcastle University has brought two cancer medicines to market with modest funding, yet the region continues losing its brightest minds to opportunities down south. The professors have a plan to change this: a Northeast Institute for Molecular Medicine employing 1,000 researchers, rivalling London's Francis Crick Institute.

The barriers reveal themselves in the numbers. While 46% of public research investment flows to the Golden Triangle, the North East could provide the trained scientists that Britain's £25 billion pharmaceutical export industry desperately needs. Northern institutions aren't just competing for resources—they're fighting the assumption that serious science happens elsewhere.

Episode Timestamps:

00:30 Meet the Experts

00:55 The Journey of Drug Discovery

02:55 Challenges and Resilience in Drug Development

07:01 Women in STEM

08:45 The Vision for a Northeast Institute for Molecular Medicine

11:14 The Importance of Location and Infrastructure

15:52 Investment and Political Climate

19:18 Future Challenges and Opportunities

22:52 Inspiring the Next Generation

Behind every policy discussion about regional investment are real people whose lives hang in the balance. The man in France who can care for his wife. The postgraduate student choosing between staying home and advancing their career. The families who could benefit from high-skilled, well-paid jobs in their communities.

The question is whether we'll invest in keeping that excellence here, or continue watching our brightest minds head elsewhere. Somewhere in France, a man is making breakfast for his wife because scientists in Newcastle refused to accept that innovation only happens in the Golden Triangle.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guests: Professor Mike Waring & Professor Akane Kawamura

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to This Is The North Podcast, your source of transformative conversations—an intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor, this podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this compelling episode, Alison engages with Praful Nargund—entrepreneur, campaigner, and founder of The Good Growth Foundation. Together, they challenge conventional economic wisdom and explore a vision where good growth and equality go hand in hand.

Praful shares his deeply personal journey—from being born in Bradford to Indian parents who came to work in the NHS, to revolutionising access to IVF treatment, to his current mission of reshaping economic policy. His story show how lived experience shapes our understanding of systemic barriers and opportunities for change. The conversation also delves into the profound disconnect between economics and people's daily realities. As Praful notes, "there was a real sense in our work that when the economy grew, it did use to benefit us 20, 30 years ago," Praful explains. "That's been broken. It doesn't benefit us anymore."

Beyond diagnosing problems, Alison and Praful chart a path forward—one that prioritises "skills and bills" over abstract GDP figures, that recognises the transformative power of local SMEs, and that refuses to pit communities against each other in a competition for resources. They confront the harsh realities of political campaigning, the erosion of public trust, and the urgent need for economic policies that people can "see, feel, and touch" in their everyday lives.

This isn't just a conversation about economic theory—it's a call for a new approach to prosperity that prioritises human dignity and real-world impact. By connecting big ideas with people's lived experiences, Praful and Alison highlight how transformative change happens not through statistics, but through policies that make tangible differences in people's lives.

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

03:15 Tackling Inequality

04:32 Education and Skills

06:08 Political Battlegrounds

09:27 Finding Resilience

11:32 The Birth of The Good Growth Foundation

15:53 "Skills and Bills"

22:17 Devolution Challenges

27:37 Regional Inequality Without Regional Division

29:15 170,000 Children in Cold Homes

36:55 Laying the Breadcrumbs

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that true economic transformation requires more than statistical growth—it demands policies that people can actually feel in their daily lives. By bringing together visionary thinking with practical solutions, Praful and Alison challenge us to reimagine prosperity as something that benefits everyone, creating communities where opportunity and fairness go hand in hand.

The great tragedy of modern economics isn't that we've failed to grow—it's that we've forgotten what we're growing for. 

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated on conversations that matter and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Praful Nargund

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this revealing episode, Alison explores how a pioneering Newcastle-based initiative is transforming healthcare by looking beyond traditional medicine to address the social factors that truly determine our wellbeing, with two remarkable guests:

• Dr. Brigid Joughin, GP and former trustee of Ways to Wellness
• Steffen Laukard, Lead for the Persistent Physical Symptoms project at Ways to Wellness

The conversation examines Ways to Wellness' innovative approach to health that addresses the "wider determinants" – housing, social connections, employment, and joy – and how these factors often have greater impact on health outcomes than medication alone. Through social prescribing, this groundbreaking organisation is demonstrating that listening, acknowledging grief, and creating space for joy can transform lives while potentially reducing pressure on the NHS.

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to The North Podcast 

01:03 Understanding Ways to Wellness 

02:04 The Role of Social Prescribers 

02:51 Challenges in General Practice 

07:09 Persistent Physical Symptoms Project 

11:21 Impact and Feedback from Patients 

18:27 Reducing NHS Costs and Hospital Admissions 

20:00 Managing a Bespoke Service 

22:56 Future of Ways to Wellness 

24:55 Mental Health and Diagnostic Labels 

32:23 Sustaining the Project 

34:56 Conclusion and Contact Information

Throughout the discussion, Steffen shares his powerful "orange box" metaphor that illustrates how chronic pain gradually contracts life's joys until sometimes only pain remains. Ways to Wellness aims to expand that box again, creating space for patients to rediscover meaning while acknowledging their conditions.

As Dr. Joughin notes, "We're not a sausage factory, we're individuals" – challenging the NHS tendency toward economies of scale that often fail in healthcare delivery. The conversation concludes with reflections on sustainability and an invitation to innovators with ideas addressing social determinants of health.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated on conversations that matter and help shape a brighter, more equitable future for the North.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guests: Dr. Brigid Joughin, Steffen Laukard

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this thought-provoking episode, Alison explores the complex ways big business influences our health with three distinguished experts:

• Professor Mark Petticrew from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
• Research fellow May van Schalkwyk from the University of Edinburgh
• Associate Professor Chris van Tulleken from University College London, and author of the number one Sunday Times bestseller, "Ultra Process People"

The conversation delves into the commercial determinants of health—how corporations' practices, products and influence shape public health through marketing, lobbying and misinformation campaigns. The experts examine how industries such as alcohol, food, gambling and tobacco prioritise profit over wellbeing, often targeting vulnerable populations while positioning themselves as part of the solution.

The discussion reveals how these harmful industries employ sophisticated tactics to influence policy, science and public perception. From funding educational materials in schools to creating "independent" organisations, these industries have systematically worked to shift responsibility onto individuals while protecting their business models that depend on harmful consumption patterns.

Episode Timestamps: 

01:10 Introduction to Commercial Determinants of Health 

03:05 Why the Public Should Care About Commercial Influences 

05:20 Ultra-Processing

26:10 Conflicts of Interest

35:25 The Challenges

41:50 Policy Solutions and Regulatory Approaches 

The panel notes the parallels between tactics used by different industries—from tobacco to food to gambling—showing how they've learned from each other to protect profits at the expense of public health.

The conversation concludes with powerful policy recommendations: ending conflicts of interest in regulatory bodies and research, implementing comprehensive marketing restrictions, pursuing legal action against harmful corporations, and developing policy frameworks that address multiple aspects of public health simultaneously.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated on conversations that matter and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guests: Professor Mark Petticrew, Research fellow May van Schalkwyk, Associate Professor Chris van Tulleken

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This Is The North' Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Lord Richard Harrington, a distinguished British businessman and politician who was ennobled in 2022 after a successful career spanning four decades. From humble beginnings as the son of a Leeds market stall holder to Oxford scholar, successful entrepreneur, Member of Parliament, and ultimately, a life peer in the House of Lords, Lord Harrington's journey embodies transformation and resilience.

The conversation delves into Lord Harrington's pivotal work on refugee resettlement, where he twice served as minister—first implementing David Cameron's pledge to bring 20,000 Syrian refugees to the UK, and later, at Boris Johnson's urgent request, creating the innovative "Homes for Ukraine" scheme that housed 150,000 Ukrainian refugees. Throughout this work, Lord Harrington balanced humanitarian imperatives with practical challenges, creating systems that protected vulnerable people while addressing legitimate security concerns.

Most recently, Lord Harrington authored a significant review on foreign direct investment for the UK government, identifying critical barriers to investment including policy inconsistency, bureaucratic delays and insufficient regional devolution. His insights on post-Brexit economic challenges, the crucial role of mayoral authorities in regional development and the urgent need for stable industrial strategy offer a compelling vision for economic transformation in the North and beyond.

Episode Timestamps:

00:42 Lord Harrington's Early Life and Career

03:35 Transition from Business to Politics

11:45 First Refugee Resettlement Role with Syrian Refugees

13:29 Return to Refugee Work: Creating "Homes for Ukraine"

24:42 The Foreign Direct Investment Review

33:54 Brexit's Impact

39:06 The Role of Regional Mayors

42:37 Vision for UK's Investment Climate and Industrial Strategy

45:20 Challenges and Barriers to Progress

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that effective economic transformation requires stability, strategic focus and the courage to make difficult decisions. Lord Harrington's journey from Leeds market to the House of Lords demonstrates how personal experience can inform public policy, while his candid assessment of the UK's investment challenges offers a blueprint for meaningful change. By examining both the human impact of refugee policy and the economic imperatives of investment strategy, this conversation bridges the gap between compassion and pragmatism that lies at the heart of effective governance.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated on conversations that matter and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Lord Richard Harrington

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 'This is The North' podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this compelling episode, I speak with Michelle Minnikin, psychologist and author of 'Good Girl Deprogramming', about the systemic conditioning affecting women in modern society. Michelle brings both professional expertise as an organisational psychologist and personal insight through her late-diagnosis ADHD journey to illuminate the complex mechanisms of gender-based conditioning.

Through her fascinating research—drawing parallels between 1950s prisoner of war brainwashing techniques and contemporary patriarchal systems—Michelle reveals how deeply embedded conditioning shapes women's behaviours and choices. She shares how her ADHD diagnosis at age 42 sparked a journey of discovery, leading to groundbreaking work on understanding and dismantling 'Good Girl Conditioning'.

The conversation examines critical systemic issues, from workplace dynamics to online harassment, whilst exploring how conditioning manifests in everything from language choices to professional relationships. Michelle challenges current narratives around gender roles, advocating for conscious resistance to conditioning whilst acknowledging the real risks women face when pushing back against established norms.

Episode Timestamps: 

00:00 Introduction

00:31 Meet Michelle Minnikin: psychologist and author

01:11 The inspiration behind Good Girl Deprogramming 

02:32 Understanding Good Girl conditioning

05:13 The patriarchy and its impact

06:00 Manifestations of Good Girl Conditioning

08:55 Challenges and pushbacks

13:05 The role of men in addressing gender issues

17:42 Impact on young women and future generations

23:00 Reclaiming power and challenging systems

30:50 Final thoughts and future projects

This episode serves as both an awakening and a call to action in addressing systemic gender conditioning. Through Michelle's insights, we explore how seemingly separate issues—from workplace behaviour to social media interactions—connect to create and perpetuate cycles of gender-based oppression. Her vision for change, including practical steps for individual and collective action, offers hope for a more equitable future.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of online harassment, sexual violence and gender-based discrimination.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Michelle Minnikin

Producer: Peter Bell

Resources:

1. 'Good Girl Deprogramming' by Michelle Minnikin (2023)
2. The demise of DEI signals the demise of human decency

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this powerful episode, Alison speaks with Professor Greta Defeyter OBE, Director of the Healthy Living Lab at Northumbria University, about the devastating impact of food insecurity. With one in five children living in food-insecure households, Professor Defeyter brings both academic expertise and personal insight to this urgent conversation.

Through her remarkable journey—from returning to rural Suffolk in the mid-80s as a single mother with just 16 pence and a pair of hiking boots to a leading academic researcher and recent recipient of an OBE for her services —Greta illuminates the complex web of challenges facing food-insecure families. She shares how a chance encounter with a child stuffing toast into his pockets at a school breakfast club transformed her research focus, leading to groundbreaking work on food insecurity and school feeding programmes.

The conversation delves deep into systemic issues, from the normalisation of breakfast clubs and food banks to the barriers preventing eligible families from accessing free school meals. Professor Defeyter challenges current approaches, advocating for auto-enrolment systems and questioning why £88 million in unused free school meal allowances vanish from school systems annually. The discussion reveals how seemingly simple solutions, such as providing water fountains in schools or allowing meal allowances to roll over, face bureaucratic hurdles that disproportionately impact the most vulnerable students.

Episode Timestamps:

00:42 Defining Food Insecurity

02:18 Professor Defeyter's Personal Journey

04:32 The Evolution of Breakfast Clubs

06:08 Impact of Food Insecurity on Child Development

13:02 Barriers to Access

27:48 Affordable Food Hubs and Alternative Solutions

32:35 Policy Recommendations

40:34 Auto-enrolment and Future Solutions

This episode serves as a powerful call to action in how we address food insecurity. Through Professor Defeyter's insights, we see how seemingly separate issues—from school food standards to data sharing between government departments—connect to create and perpetuate cycles of food poverty. Her vision for change, including auto-enrolment for benefits and reimagining school food systems, offers hope for a more equitable future.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Professor Greta Defeyter OBE

Producer: Peter Bell

🔗 Key Publications

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this compelling episode, Alison delves into the heart of Northern entrepreneurship with Charlie Hoult, a visionary fourth-generation businessman whose family legacy has helped shape the North East's business landscape. As the driving force behind Hoults Yard Business Centre, Charlie embodies the transformative spirit of modern entrepreneurship while honouring the rich industrial heritage of his family's century-old enterprise, which began with Maling's Pottery.

Through intimate conversation, Charlie unveils the delicate balance of preserving family legacy while embracing innovation and change. His journey from traditional industry to creating a dynamic business hub reflects the broader evolution of the North's economy. The discussion explores how Hoults Yard has adapted to modern workplace demands, pioneering hybrid work solutions and fostering a vibrant community of entrepreneurs. Charlie's involvement with the National Innovation Centre for Data demonstrates his commitment to positioning the North East at the forefront of technological advancement.

This episode transcends typical business discourse by examining the intersection of family values, entrepreneurial spirit, and regional development. Charlie's insights into community-building offer a blueprint for sustainable economic growth in the North. His story exemplifies how traditional business wisdom, when combined with forward-thinking innovation, can create lasting positive change in our communities and challenge the systemic barriers facing Northern development.

Episode Timestamps:

00:30 Meet Charlie Hoult

01:06 The Legacy of Hoults Yard

10:12 Adapting Through Crises

11:27 Charlie's Diverse Career Path

15:06 Entrepreneurial Insights and Challenges

19:28 Risk-Taking and Business Planning

21:43 Balancing Family and Risk

22:17 Generational Change and Entrepreneurship

23:31 Political Aspirations and Community Impact

26:37 Tech Innovation and Regional Development

35:15 Conscious Capitalism and Networking

40:34 Future of the North East

45:04 Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a masterclass in modern entrepreneurship, demonstrating how traditional business values can evolve to meet contemporary challenges while maintaining their core purpose. Charlie's story reminds us that true business success isn't just measured in profits but in the lasting impact we create in our communities and the opportunities we create for future generations.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe now to stay updated and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn 

Guest: Charlie Hoult

Producer: Peter Bell

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this compelling episode, Alison speaks with James Grimes, Head of Prevention at Gambling with Lives, about the devastating and often-overlooked crisis of gambling addiction. This epidemic has claimed countless lives and continues to disproportionately harm communities in the North of England.

James shares his deeply personal journey, charting a path from despair to redemption, and exposes how a seemingly innocuous pastime can spiral into a life-altering compulsion. Together, they unpack the societal and systemic forces that allow gambling harms to persist—from the legacy of the 2005 Gambling Act to the alarming rise of youth gambling. They also highlight the powerful work of Gambling with Lives, a charity founded by bereaved families advocating for reform and offering support to those affected.

This episode dives into the ethical and social dimensions of gambling-related harms, drawing parallels to Big Tobacco and spotlighting the urgent need for systemic change. Through initiatives like The Big Step campaign and grassroots recovery programmes, James and Alison reveal a hopeful path forward—a way to reclaim lives and challenge an industry that profits from vulnerability.

This isn’t just a conversation about addiction; it’s a wake-up call. It’s a rallying cry for communities, leaders, and policymakers to confront entrenched systems, rethink the way we address gambling harms, and fight for a future where no one is left behind.

Episode Timestamps:

00:42 The Impact of the 2005 Gambling Act

02:18 Gambling’s Effect on Youth and Families

04:32 Comparing Gambling to Big Tobacco: Parallels and Differences

05:29 The Role of Personal Responsibility vs Industry Accountability

06:08 Gambling-Related Suicides: The Hidden Epidemic

13:02 James Grimes’ Journey to Recovery

27:48 The Big Step Campaign: Advocacy in Action

32:35 Support Systems and Recovery Resources

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that real change requires collective action—from grassroots campaigns to bold regulatory reform. James’ story reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming odds, recovery and hope are possible. By amplifying voices like his, Alison Dunn challenges us to confront entrenched norms, spark systemic reform, and imagine a future where no life is sacrificed to preventable harm.

Enjoyed this episode?

Subscribe now to stay updated on conversations that matter and help shape a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: James Grimes

Producer: Peter Bell

This podcast is produced by Purpose Made, empowering change through intentional leadership and shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with the brilliant Ann Cleeves, best known for her globally acclaimed crime fiction. Our conversation covered her journey from an avid library-goer to an award-winning author, and her commitment to the communities she writes about. Ann’s work captures not only the suspense of crime and mystery but also the underlying social issues, empathy, and resilience found in real life. We delved into Ann’s early life, the variety of jobs that shaped her perspective, and her pathway to publication. She shared insights into the importance of authentic settings, drawing on her love for the North East and how it plays a pivotal role in her stories. Ann’s novels, like Raven Black, and her recent bestseller, The Dark Wives, explore complex characters and themes that resonate far beyond the page, touching on real societal issues.

One highlight of our discussion was the Reading for Wellbeing Project, an initiative close to Ann’s heart, which emphasises the mental health and wellbeing benefits of reading for pleasure. We discussed how this project is bringing comfort, community, and mental health support to people through books and shared reading experiences. Ann also shared her thoughts on the challenges libraries face today and the critical need for public funding to keep these invaluable resources alive for future generations.

This conversation with Ann reminded me of the power of storytelling to build connections, honour community roots, and advocate for change. Her stories are more than mysteries; they are reflections of the voices and places that shape us, and they serve as a call to remember the social and educational spaces—like libraries—that nurture and inspire us all.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:22 – Ann's Early Life and Inspirations

03:10 – The Journey to Becoming a Published Author

05:18 – Challenges in the Publishing Industry

08:09 – The Dark Wives

09:58 – Impact of Social Issues on Writing

12:02 – Vera: A Global Phenomenon

14:46 – Adapting Books to Screen

17:07 – The Inspiration Behind Raven Black

17:58 – The Essence of Crime Writing

20:54 – Challenges Facing Libraries Today

26:06 – Reading for Wellbeing Project

32:57 – Upcoming Works and Final Thoughts

Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe and join us in building a brighter, more inclusive future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Ann Cleeves (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast is proudly produced by Purpose Made, committed to driving societal change through shared knowledge and transformative conversations.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Sunderland University. Sir David’s career in education and public service is nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a headteacher to serving as Permanent Secretary at the Department for Education, and now leading Sunderland University, he’s been consistently driven by a deep commitment to expanding education, creating opportunity, and strengthening community at every turn.

We explored Sir David’s diverse work across politics, education, and his impactful role with Carbon Homes in social housing. Sir David also offered a rare insider’s perspective on the critical role of civil servants during political transitions, unpacking what it truly means to "speak truth to power" and how to navigate those pivotal moments of leadership with integrity and purpose.

But perhaps the most important takeaway from our conversation is something Sir David said that truly resonates with me: “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t.” That simple truth underlines everything we discussed. Our job—whether in education, politics, social policy, or community development—is to close that gap. It’s about creating the opportunities that unlock the talent that exists all around us, especially here in the North.

This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a reminder that creating opportunity is not just a goal but a responsibility we all share.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to This Is The North Podcast

00:30 Meet Sir David Bell: A Storied Career in Education

01:20 The Secret to Success: Loving Every Job

03:05 Diverse Interests: From Housing to Arts and Culture

06:02 Role of a Permanent Secretary: Insights and Experiences

09:27 Transitioning Governments: Challenges and Processes

20:16 Civil Service Dynamics: Speaking Truth to Power

26:03 Addressing Disparities: Education and Social Mobility

30:36 Regional Focus: Skills and Devolved Government

35:17 Sunderland University: A Unique Institution

38:48 Sunderland Medical School: Expanding Opportunities

42:55 Conclusion: Celebrating Success Stories

Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe now and join us in empowering our communities and shaping a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Sir David Bell (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast is proudly produced by Purpose Made, committed to driving societal change through shared knowledge and transformative conversations.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In today’s episode, I’m speaking with Katie Talikowska, CEO of The Valuable 500, a global movement focused on making disability a boardroom priority. The Valuable 500 is working with over 500 global businesses, including household names like Apple, Google, and Microsoft, representing a collective workforce of more than 23 million employees and a combined market cap of 23 trillion US dollars. Together, Katie and I dive into the challenges of driving systemic change, exploring the cultural differences and barriers that often stand in the way of genuine inclusion. Katie highlights the importance of inclusive leadership, transparent reporting, and authentic representation. We round off our conversation by looking ahead to the SYNC 25 Accountability Summit in Tokyo, a pivotal event for tracking progress in disability inclusion on a global scale.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

00:52 - The Mission of The Valuable 500

05:09 - Tackling Cultural Differences in Disability Inclusion

08:36 - Katie’s Journey: From Advertising to Advocacy

09:09 - The Maltesers Campaign: Shifting Public Perception on Disability

14:24 - The Vision of Caroline Casey and the Birth of The Valuable 500

19:39 - Convincing Global Companies to Join The Valuable 500

22:42 - Strategic Focus Areas: Leadership, Representation, and Accountability

25:13 - Challenges with Employee Retention in Disability Inclusion

25:57 - The Role and Importance of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

28:27 - Disability Inclusion in SMEs: How Smaller Businesses Can Make a Difference

31:11 - The Power of Intersectionality in Disability Inclusion

33:02 - Media’s Role in Normalising Disability Representation

38:50 - Dealing with Backlash Against Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Efforts

41:44 - SYNC 25: The Upcoming Accountability Summit in Tokyo

47:20 - Final Call to Action for Disability Inclusion

This conversation with Katie reinforces a crucial lesson: inclusion is not a one-off project—it’s a continuous, strategic effort that needs to be embedded into the core of every business. Katie’s work with

The Valuable 500 reminds us that true progress only happens when we’re willing to push beyond surface-level diversity initiatives and hold ourselves accountable for creating lasting, systemic change. The upcoming SYNC 25 Summit will be a powerful opportunity to do just that.

Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe now to join us in empowering our communities and shaping a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Katie Talikowska (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast is proudly produced by Purpose Made, committed to driving societal change through shared knowledge and transformative conversations.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this fascinating episode, Alison engages in a candid, thought-provoking conversation with Jo Tanner, a renowned political strategist who has worked across the political spectrum and is a regular commentator on current affairs. Jo began her career as a broadcast journalist before leading the PR efforts for Boris Johnson’s 2008 Mayoral campaign. Today, she’s a familiar face on programmes like Good Morning Britain, BBC’s Politics Live, Channel 4 News, and more.

Jo takes us behind the scenes of political strategy, explaining how her work has shaped both Conservative and Labour campaigns. Together, they explore pressing issues such as public expectations from the government, the challenges of devolution, and why representation matters for building a fairer society. Jo also shares her passions for mental health advocacy, elevating women’s voices, and grassroots football and education initiatives. This conversation underscores the power of diverse perspectives and the importance of long-term thinking in today’s political landscape.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:31 Meet Jo Tanner: Political Strategist

01:12 The Role of a Political Strategist

02:35 Navigating Political Ideologies

05:12 Balancing Personal Values and Professional Duties

08:15 Challenges in the Current Political Landscape

13:32 Election Campaign Dynamics

20:12 Reflections on Boris Johnson's Leadership

25:44 Influential Figures and Personal Experiences

27:58 Overcoming Accent Challenges in Politics

28:51 Support from Male Colleagues

29:23 Training Women in Media

29:44 Facing Public Criticism

31:19 Authenticity in Leadership

33:51 Challenges for Women in Politics

38:50 Founding the Women's Parliamentary Football Team

44:57 Promoting Mental Health Awareness

48:01 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

50:18 Future of Devolution in the North East

Reflecting on this conversation, it’s clear that Jo Tanner’s ability to navigate the complexities of political strategy—while staying true to her values—offers invaluable lessons for anyone seeking to foster meaningful, systemic change. Her insights remind us that by empowering diverse voices, especially women and underrepresented groups, we can reshape politics to serve all communities.

Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe now to join us in empowering our communities and shaping a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Jo Tanner (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast is proudly produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to driving societal change through the power of shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this deeply moving episode, Alison sits down with Charlie Beswick, a passionate advocate for parent carers and the author of Our Altered Life. Charlie opens up about her emotional journey raising her twin boys, particularly Harry, who was born with Goldenhar syndrome and later diagnosed with autism. The conversation dives into the complexities of parenting a child with special needs, the impact on family dynamics, and the societal judgments they often face. Charlie also shares her professional evolution from teaching to advocacy, focusing on educating employers about the unique skills and needs of parent carers. This episode offers powerful insights into the emotional and practical realities of raising a child with special needs, highlighting resilience, community support, and enduring hope.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to This Is The North Podcast

00:32 Meet Charlie Beswick: Advocate and Author

01:35 From Pregnancy to Diagnosis: Charlie's Journey

02:46 Navigating Emotional Struggles and Family Dynamics

05:22 The Highs and Lows of Parenting a Child with Special Needs

12:57 Confronting Public Perception and Advancing Advocacy

18:55 Charlie's Professional Transition and Advocacy Work

23:16 Building Support Systems and Embracing Personal Growth

33:22 Advice for Carers and Final Reflections

Reflecting on this conversation, it's evident that Charlie’s strength and resilience are not only inspiring but also a powerful call to action. Her story shines a light on the unseen challenges faced by parent carers, urging us all to rethink how society supports and values these remarkable families. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and the urgent need for systemic change to build a world where every individual, regardless of circumstance, can flourish. Charlie's journey through grief and anger, challenges and triumphs, loss and acceptance, ultimately leads to a place of profound love for the life she shares with her two beautiful children—children she wouldn’t change for the world.

Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe now to join us in empowering our communities and shaping a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Charlie Beswick (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast is proudly produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to driving societal change through the power of shared knowledge.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison joins a panel discussion with Steve Beharall, CEO of the Newcastle United Foundation, and Dean Titterton, CEO of YMCA North Tyneside, to address the recent rioting triggered by the tragic killing of three young girls in Southport. Guest host Neil Gow, Strategy and Research Manager at Citizens Advice Gateshead, guides us through a panel discussion focused on the profound impact of the recent UK riots on organisations, employees, and communities, emphasising the importance of safety, solidarity, and resilience. They share their efforts in supporting affected individuals and adapting services, while also focusing on combating misinformation and fostering community cohesion. Their conversation underscores the need for a united response to combat Islamophobia, racism, and societal disconnection, advocating for collective action and the role of the charitable sector in inspiring positive change.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Panel Introduction

00:46 Impact of Riots on Organisations

02:03 Safety Measures and Community Response

03:53 Long-term Effects and Community Trauma

04:49 Addressing Misinformation and Social Media

06:40 Community Solidarity and Positive Actions

09:28 Future Steps and Collaboration

24:10 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Reflecting on this powerful discussion, it's clear that the path to a more equitable society isn't paved with grand gestures but with consistent, courageous action. The panel's insights remind us that real change begins at the community level—where empathy meets strategy, and where solidarity becomes our strongest tool against division.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Neil Gow (Host)

Alison Dunn (Guest)

Steve Beharall (Guest)

Dean Titterton (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison sits down with Fatima Whitbread, a celebrated Olympian, world champion, MBE recipient, and tireless advocate for children in the care system. Fatima's story is a powerful journey from a challenging childhood in care to becoming a world-renowned athlete. She discusses her ongoing campaign to reform the care system and her upcoming summit aimed at driving systemic change. This conversation sheds light on the critical issues faced by children in care and underscores the necessity of creating supportive and nurturing environments.

Timestamp:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:31 Meet Fatima Whitbread: Olympian and Advocate

01:32 Everest Base Camp Experience

02:25 Campaigning for Children in Care

03:31 Fatima's Early Life in the Care System

04:20 Challenges in the Care System

10:30 The Importance of Role Models

13:33 Programs for Youth Development

16:04 The Broken Care System

26:23 Empowering Young People

30:36 The Need for Foster Carers

35:46 Fatima's Reflections and Values

38:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This is an unforgettable episode featuring one of life’s true champions, who triumphed against unimaginable hardships to rise as a beacon of hope, grit, and resilience. Fatima’s journey from an abandoned child to an Olympic champion and campaigner is not just inspiring; it’s a call to action for all of us to contribute to a fairer, more caring society.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Fatima Whitbread (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

If you'd like to find out more about Fatima's UK Campaign please visit https://www.fatimascampaign.com/about-fatima/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health for Gateshead and Newcastle, and Dr. Julie Scanlon, an expert in women's inclusion. Together, they delve into the persisting gender inequalities in health, employment, and social roles. The conversation uncovers the impact of recent socio-economic challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, austerity, and the cost-of-living crisis on women, the intersectionality of gender with other identity aspects, and highlights the urgent need for policy and cultural changes to ensure a more equitable society. Tune in for an insightful look at what we can do to bridge the gender gap in the North of England and beyond.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:28 Meet the Guests: Alice Wiseman and Dr. Julie Scanlon

00:58 The State of Women's Health in the UK

02:52 Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Women

04:04 Intersectionality and Women's Experiences

04:45 Gender Pay Gap and Occupational Segregation

05:50 Challenges of Unpaid Care Work

11:50 Visibility and Inclusion in the Workplace

19:10 Food Insecurity and Poverty

29:10 Domestic Violence During the Pandemic

37:33 Policy Measures and Future Directions

41:22 Call to Action and Closing Remarks

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Alice Wiseman (Guest)

Dr. Julie Scanlon (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison welcomes the insightful and provocative political commentator and writer, Grace Blakeley. Grace discusses her latest book, 'Vulture Capitalism,' which delves into the intricate and often opaque mechanisms of capitalist economies. This episode reveals startling insights into the concentration of power, the lack of accountability, and the formidable influence of financial institutions and corporations in perpetuating these systems. Moreover, it highlights grassroots movements and alternative models as pathways to a fairer society. Join us for an in-depth exploration of systemic issues and practical strategies for collective change.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction

00:34 Meet Grace Blakeley

00:57 Discussing 'Vulture Capitalism'

04:14 Capitalism & Marxist Perspective

05:53 Challenging the Status Quo

33:12 Employee Ownership & Mutuality

36:53 The Influence of Financial Institutions

41:57 Closing Remarks

Grace's revelations are essential for anyone looking to understand and challenge the systems that uphold economic disparity. Her emphasis on actionable insights and grassroots movements offers a hopeful path towards a more equitable future.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: Grace Blakeley

Producer: Peter Bell

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with David Smith, CEO of Oasis Community Housing and the Labour candidate for North Northumberland. The discussion delves into David's extensive career, his motivations for entering politics, and his vision for North Northumberland and the UK. Alison and David explore the systemic challenges of homelessness, the importance of preventative measures, and David's personal experiences that shape his political views.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction
• David's Work with Oasis Community Housing
• Decision to Run for Office
• Personal Experiences Shaping Political Views
• Priorities for North Northumberland
• Challenges and Solutions in Public Services
• Engaging Younger Voters
• Labour Party's Stance on Key Issues
• Restoring Trust in Politics 

David's candid conversation with Alison sheds light on the critical issues facing North Northumberland and British politics. His vision for a more inclusive, supportive society, along with his experience in the third sector, highlights the potential for meaningful change. As a Labour candidate, David emphasises honesty, integrity, and long-term solutions to improve the lives of constituents, aiming to create a brighter future for Britain.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Host: Alison Dunn

Guest: David Smith

Producer: Peter Bell

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison speaks with Brian Aitken, former editor of the 'Journal' newspaper and founder of the new online magazine 'The QT'. The discussion covers Brian's extensive journalism career, his successful campaigns that boosted the North East region, and his transition to media consultancy, including work with Newcastle United Football Club. They explore the importance of credible journalism, Brian's campaigns, and the positive impact of his work on the community. Additionally, Brian shares the vision behind 'The QT', emphasising fair, balanced news and its potential influence on the North East's socio-political landscape. The episode underscores the necessity for regional advocacy and engagement through quality journalism.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

00:30 A Background To Brian Aitken: From Editor to Media Consultant

01:22 Brian's Early Journalism Career

03:55 Campaigns and Achievements at The Journal

12:40 The Transition to Newcastle United

16:14 The Birth of The QT: A New Online Magazine

19:45 The QT's Mission and Content

23:07 Political Neutrality and Social Impact

26:25 Future Plans and Impact of The QT

27:37 Closing Thoughts And Key Takeaways

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Brian Aitken (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode of 'This is the North' podcast, host Alison Dunn, supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company, engages with Andrew Haig (CEO of Newcastle Building Society), Nancy Doyle-Hall (Executive Director of the Virgin Money Foundation), and Emma Black (Co-founder of GB Bank and CEO of Cascade Cash Management) to discuss the role of financial institutions in supporting economic development and wealth creation in local communities, especially in the north of England.

The conversation explores how these institutions contribute to a more equal and inclusive society, the significance of financial literacy, and their initiatives to support low-income individuals and small businesses. The panellists also discuss future plans for engaging with local government and not-for-profits through devolution to address economic disparities, aiming for a fairer distribution of wealth and a more inclusive financial environment.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to 'This is the North' Podcast

00:39 Introducing the Panel: Voices from the Financial Sector

03:29 Exploring the Role of Financial Institutions in Community Development

05:45 The Impact of Financial Institutions on Social Change and Economic Equality

08:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Purposeful Leadership and Social Impact

17:48 Collaboration and Community Engagement: A Path to Financial Literacy and Inclusion

25:07 Discussing the British Reluctance to Talk About Money

30:34 Empowering Individuals in Financial Decisions

31:10 The Simplicity of Switching Financial Providers

31:54 The Importance of Trust and Accessibility in Finance

32:41 Maintaining High Street Presence for Financial Services

33:11 Innovative Approaches to Community Banking

34:17 The Role of Community Spaces in Financial Institutions

36:14 Supporting Communities Through the Virgin Money Foundation

36:55 Spotlight on Local Organizations Making a Difference

41:09 Enhancing Financial Returns for Charities and Schools

43:16 Future Plans for Addressing Wealth Inequality

49:22 The Potential of Devolution to Address Economic Disparities

57:36 Concluding Thoughts on Community and Economic Development

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Andrew Haig (Guest)

Nancy Doyle-Hall (Guest)

Emma Black (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In today’s episode, Alison is joined by Nicola Headlam, a renowned independent economic adviser and former Head of the Northern Powerhouse. Together, they delve into the intricacies of policy and politics from the era of Thatcherism and Lord Heseltine to today's complex geopolitical landscape.

Today’s discussion focuses on:

• Economic Development: Nicola shares insights from her pioneering work in neighbourhood renewal and her approach to evidence-based policies aimed at addressing inequalities.
• Historical Context and Policies: We critique the evolution from New Labour’s regional development policies to their recent impacts on the North.
• Subnational Economic Development: Emphasis on practical, evidence-based policymaking with a "worst-first" approach to significantly reduce economic disparities.
• Cultural and Economic Potential: A vibrant discussion on the North's rich culture and untapped potential for economic revitalisation.
• Role of Evidence in Policy: Highlighting the crucial role of data-driven approaches in mitigating regional disparities and the impacts of a decade of managed decline.
• Infrastructure and Urban Development: Exploring the pivotal role of infrastructure in economic development, including discussions on the abandonment of HS2 and the efforts toward 'levelling up.'
• Social Issues and Public Sector Challenges: An examination of public sector cuts and the critical roles within the third sector amidst shifts in government policy.
• Brexit and Its Implications: Assessing Brexit’s tangible impacts on regional development and economic strategies.
• Future of Economic Development: Discussing the urgent need for continued investment in infrastructure and innovation to propel Northern England forward.

Key Thoughts & Takeaways:

This discussion offers a retrospective look at pivotal decisions that have shaped the current challenges in Northern England. You will leave this episode equipped with a deeper understanding of the complex socio-economic disparities facing the North, and inspired by actionable strategies that aim to leverage regional strengths, paving a future filled with hope, opportunities and possibilities.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Nicola Headlam (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In today's episode, Alison is joined by current serving North of Tyne Mayor and Independent North East Mayoral Candidate, Jamie Driscoll.

Jamie shares insights from his tenure as Mayor, focusing on his achievements despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. With 92% of his manifesto pledges already delivered, including unifying the region under a single Mayoral Combined Authority, Jamie's approach to governance is rooted in pragmatism and a deep-seated belief in public service.

From his early days leaving school at 16, to becoming a mature student and later a software developer, Jamie's varied life experiences have shaped his politics into what he describes as common sense rather than left or right-wing ideology. He emphasises the importance of democracy, public NHS, wealth tax, common ownership of utilities, universal basic income, proportional representation, and more—policies aimed at creating a fairer society for all.

Today's discussion focuses on:

• Jamie's Role As Mayor Of The North Of Tyne
• His Motivations To Be The North East Mayor
• His Formative Years & Influences
• Jamie's Career Pre-Politics & Early Years
• Commitment To Child Poverty Prevention
• The Green Agenda & Job Creation
• The Negotiation & Construction of A Devolution Deal
• Investment In Future Generations & Mental Health
• Lifting People Up & Not Leaving People Behind
• Unifying The Region & Recovery
• Adult Education & Rural Communities
• The Challenges of A Pandemic & Political Instability
• Transitioning From Labour To An Independent Candidate
• The Future Of Democracy
• Tuition Fees & Impacts
• Sadio Populism & Short-Termism
• The Shrinking Of Public Services
• The Rise of The Right Wing
• Misinformation & Electoral Implications
• Trust & Authenticity
• The Role of The Third Sector & Austerity
• Integrated Transportation
• Social Housing
• Tax & Wealth Inequality
• Key Thoughts & Takeaways

Key Date: Polling day to elect a North East mayor is Thursday, May 2nd 2024. You can register to vote here.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Jamie Driscoll (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In today's episode, Alison is joined by Northumberland County Councillor and Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, Guy Renner-Thompson. Guy is also the Conservative Party Candidate for the North East Mayoral Elections.

Guy shares his vision and plans for the North East, highlighting the region's historical significance and its potential for a prosperous future. With a focus on leveraging the new Devolution Deal, Guy aims to usher in a new era of growth and opportunity, focusing on investment designed to shift power closer to the communities it aims to benefit.

Born and raised in the North East, and a local businessman, Guy brings a personal commitment to advocating for the region’s needs. His track record as a Councillor for education in Northumberland, where he has improved school performance, demonstrates his dedication to enhancing local education and training facilities to the regions needs.

Today's discussion focuses on:

• Guy's Background & Roots in The North East
• Motivations to be Mayor
• Manifesto Pledges & Removing Barriers
• Reenergising The North East’s Industrial Heartlands
• His Role As Northumberland County Councillor & Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services
• Education As An Employment Edge
• The Transformative Potential of Devolution
• Farming, Agriculture & A Rural Plan 
• A Pledge For The Motorist 
• Impact of Green Energy 
• Freeports & Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
• Inequality & Child Poverty
• The Third Sector & Provision
• The UKs Recession & How This Came To Pass 
• If A Conservative Government is a Help or A Hindrance 
• Guy’s Assessment of The Past 14 Years of Conservative Governance
• Views Ahead of Mays Mayoral Elections & This Years General Election 
• Trussonomics & Guy’s Reflections on Liz Truss’s Tenure as PM 
• Key Thoughts & Takeaways

Key Date: Polling day to elect a North East mayor is Thursday, May 2nd 2024. You can register to vote here. Remember to register by 11:59pm on 16 April 2024 to vote.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Guy Renner-Thompson (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In today's episode, Alison is joined by Kim McGuinness, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner and Labour's North East Mayoral Candidate.

Kim shares her personal journey and vision for the North East, emphasising the importance of creating opportunities for everyone to succeed in the region she loves. Growing up in the West End of Newcastle in a working-class family, Kim experienced firsthand the challenges and hardships faced by many in the region. Her story is a testament to the impact of community support and government investment, highlighting her commitment to empowering communities and delivering real opportunities for working-class people.

As Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim has prioritised fighting the effects of poverty and deprivation, bolstering police presence, investing in youth, and revitalising community hubs. Now, standing for mayor, she aims to champion regional pride and ambition, advocate for the North East on a national level, and create a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

Today's discussion focuses on:

• Kim's Role As The Police And Crime Commissioner
• Her Early Years And Influences
• The North-South Divide
• Fighting Poverty, Fighting Crime
• Youth Services And Adversity
• Keeping People Safe
• Sarah Everard And Tackling Violence Against Women And Girls
• Kim's Key Manifesto Pledges
• A Blueprint From Other Devolved Regions
• Short-Termism And Populism
• The Role of The Third Sector
• Key Thoughts And Takeaways.

Key Date: Polling day to elect a North East mayor is Thursday, May 2nd 2024. You can register to vote here. Remember to register by 11:59pm on 16 April 2024 to vote.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Kim McGuinness (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In today's episode, Alison is joined by Dan Jackson, Charlie Charlton, and Steve Beharall. Each is renowned in their field, offering a multidimensional exploration of the North's rich heritage:

• Dan Jackson is distinguished not only for his celebrated work, "The Northumbrians," but also for his impactful roles as the Director of Policy, Involvement & Stakeholder Affairs at NHS North East and North Cumbria, and Vice Chair of Beamish Museum. Dan's deep dive into the region's history and culture, combined with his hands-on experience in policy and community involvement, uniquely positions him to discuss the complexities of the North's past, present, and future.
• Charlie Charlton, a prominent advocate for the North East, brings her extensive experience as a journalist, presenter, and Community Engagement Manager at Newcastle Helix to the forefront of our discussion. Her work epitomises a passionate commitment to highlighting the North East's uniqueness, addressing the North-South divide, and fostering community development through innovation and engagement.
• Steve Beharall, leading the Newcastle United Foundation as CEO, showcases the transformative impact of sports and community programmes across the North East. His leadership in leveraging the foundation's platform to address social issues, promote education, and enhance community well-being illustrates the critical role sports can play in societal change.

Today's discussion focuses on:

• George Stevenson And The Northumbrians
• The Northumbrian Enlightenment
• Disparities And the Uniqueness of the North & South
• Geordie And Northern Stereotypes
• Gender Equality
• Heavy And New Industries
• A Culture of Autodidactism
• Mechanisms for Community, Identity And Mutuality
• Impact And Opportunity of Sport within Our Beloved Region
• Impact of Alcohol And the ‘Deaths from Despair’
• Changing the Narrative
• Devolution And Boosterism
• Key Thoughts And Takeaways.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Dan Jackson (Guest)

Charlie Charlton (Guest)

Steve Beharall (Guest)

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In today's episode, Alison is joined by Kevin Telford, Robin Ferris, and Estelle Blanks:

• Kevin Telford, is a Strategic Adviser and Future FS Strategy Consultant at Monstarlab, and Co-Founder of Finpac.
• Robin Ferris, CEO of Bankuet, the UK's first zero-waste digital food donation platform, on a mission to ensure food banks get what they need, when they need it.
• Estelle Blanks, a Non-Executive Director at Nexus, Member of the CBI Innovation Council, and CEO of the Innovation SuperNetwork, a unique North East network supporting businesses in growth and innovation.

Today's discussion focuses on the disparities, opportunities, and outcomes between the North and South. Some context for our conversation includes:

• 38% of children in the North East live in poverty.
• 41% of key workers are living in poverty, with the North West being the closest rival for this unwelcome distinction at 29%.
• The North East has the lowest level of A-Level and GCSE results in the country.
• People in the North have a significantly lower life expectancy than those in the South, with many in the region spending their later years in much poorer health than the rest of the UK.

With this backdrop, today's episode will cover:

• The realities of being tied to the North.
• Social entrepreneurship.
• The cost of living crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Using innovation as a tool to support economic development.
• The blend of activism and entrepreneurship.
• The North East's legacy of innovation.
• System thinking versus transactional approaches.
• The debate between short-termism and long-term vision.
• The role of equity finance in social innovation.
• The challenges of investment and barriers to innovation.
• The concept of devolution.
• The idea of leaping up, not just levelling up.
• Education and educational attainment.
• Wealth inequality and government investment zones.
• The intersection of innovation, gender inclusion, and success assessment.
• The importance of purpose, sustainability, and impact.
• Strategies for solving social problems.
• The dynamic between collaboration and competition.
• Key thoughts and takeaways from the conversation.

Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.

Alison Dunn (Host)

Kevin Telford

Robin Ferris

Estelle Blanks

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded by Moja and produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison is joined by a distinguished panel: John Johnston, Dr. Henry Kippin, and Sheena Ramsey.

• John Johnston, CEO of Bernicia and influential figure on the Council of North East Chamber of Commerce's board, brings a wealth of leadership and regional development insight.
• Dr. Henry Kippin, the driving force as Interim Chief Executive of The North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NEMCA), shares his vision for the region's future.
• Sheena Ramsey, Gateshead Council's Chief Executive, represents one of the seven local authorities integral to NEMCA, offering a unique perspective on local governance and community impact.

Together, they unravel the complexities of the north-south divide, exploring the pivotal role of devolution and the "levelling up" agenda in addressing longstanding socio-economic disparities.

During this insightful conversation, we discuss:

• Levelling Up & Can It Be Done
• Collaboration Over Competition 
• Poverty & Real Term Inequalities 
• Performance & Productivity 
• Employment & Intellectual Capacity
• The Social Obligation of Devolution
• A Strategy For Skills & Improvements
• Transport & HS2
• Investment & Infrastructure  
• Long vs. Short Term Planning 
• The Potential Impacts of A General Election & Change of Governance
• Thoughts For The Future & What Success Looks Like

Referenced Documents:

• Levelling Up White Paper
• Bankrupt Birmingham

Join us as we dive deep into the heart of the North's challenges and opportunities, seeking pathways to a more balanced and prosperous future. Tune in to "This Is The North" for a conversation that not only questions the status quo but also inspires actionable change.

Enjoyed the podcast? Don't forget to subscribe and connect.

Alison Dunn (Host)

John Johnston

Dr Henry Kippin 

Sheena Ramsey

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded by Moja and produced by Purpose Made.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.