The Social Matters Podcast

Nadia, Fran, Eugene
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SOCIAL SCIENCES
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

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

  1. APR 26

    Episode 17 (S8). Connecting With Your Why: The Heart of Social Change

    We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the idea of “connecting with your why,” and reflect on what this means in the context of social change, challenging discrimination and our own journeys within the DEI space. What does it mean to stay connected to your deeper motivations for doing this work? In spaces where conversations about inequality and discrimination can be complex, emotional and at times overwhelming, how can grounding ourselves in our “why” help us to keep going with intention and integrity? In this episode, we discuss the different reasons that draw people into social change work, and how those motivations can evolve over time. We reflect on our own “whys,” exploring the personal experiences, values and moments that have shaped our commitment to challenging discrimination and working within DEI. We also explore the realities of this work, the tensions, the emotional weight and the risk of disconnection, and consider how reconnecting with our “why” can support resilience, honesty and a deeper sense of purpose. Rather than seeing purpose as something fixed, we think about it as something that shifts, grows and is continually revisited. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own motivations, what drives them to care about social change and how staying connected to that “why” can shape the way they show up in the work and in the world. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    46 min

  2. APR 12

    Episode 15 (S8). More Than a Meal: The Hidden Impact of Breakfast on Young Lives (feat. Dr Ben Dunn)

    In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Ben Dunn, Head of Impact and Innovation at Magic Breakfast — a charity champion and provide nourishing breakfasts that help children and young people learn and thrive. During our conversation, Ben shares the mission behind Magic Breakfast and reflects on the vital role a nutritious start to the day plays in shaping a child’s ability to learn, connect and thrive. He explores how something as simple as breakfast can have a profound impact on educational outcomes, overall wellbeing, and a lot more! Ben also highlights the long-term impact Magic Breakfast is striving for, and why tackling child hunger is essential to creating a fairer, more inclusive education system. This is a thoughtful conversation about the power of early support and the difference it can make in a child’s life. Ben reminds us that when children are properly nourished, they are better equipped to engage, grow and reach their full potential. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 Website: magicbreakfast.com 📲 Instagram: @magicbreakfast_uk 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    32 min

  3. MAR 29

    Episode 15 (S8). Inside the Manosphere: Our Reflections

    We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the Louis Theroux Netflix documentary 'Inside the Manosphere', reflecting on our reactions, what stood out to us and the wider conversations it raises about masculinity, identity and influence. What is the manosphere, and why is it gaining traction among young boys and men? In a digital world shaped by algorithms, online communities and powerful personalities, how are ideas about gender, power and belonging being formed and reinforced? In this episode, we discuss the key themes from the documentary, unpacking the narratives it presents and the impact these spaces may be having on young people. Drawing on our own perspectives and experiences, we reflect on the appeal of the manosphere, the role of social media, and how messages around masculinity, success and relationships are being communicated and absorbed. We also explore the potential risks and harms, alongside the broader societal context that allows these movements to grow. What responsibilities do we all hold in responding to this? And how can we create space for more balanced, healthy and nuanced conversations about masculinity? This episode invites listeners to think critically about online influence, gender narratives and the importance of supporting young people to navigate complex spaces. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    36 min

  4. MAR 15

    Episode 14 (S8). Sitting With Uncertainty

    We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the systemic concept of safe uncertainty, originally developed by Barry Mason, and reflect on what this idea means within organisations, professional practice and our own experiences in social work. What does it mean for professionals and organisations to hold both safety and uncertainty at the same time? In systems that often prioritise control, answers and certainty, how can curiosity, reflection and openness create space for more thoughtful and ethical practice? In this episode, we discuss how the concept of safe uncertainty can challenge rigid decision-making and encourage organisations to move away from defensive cultures towards environments that value learning, collaboration and reflection. Drawing on our experiences in social work and organisational systems, we explore the tensions between accountability and curiosity, and how fear, risk management and hierarchy can sometimes limit meaningful dialogue. We also reflect on how adopting a stance of safe uncertainty can support better relationships with the people we work alongside, recognising complexity, valuing different perspectives and resisting the pressure to rush towards simple answers in complex situations. This episode invites listeners to think differently about certainty, organisational culture and the importance of curiosity in practice. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    27 min

  5. MAR 1

    Episode 13 (S8). Beyond the Pitch: Equality and Representation in Refereeing (feat. Arran Williams and Karan Rai).

    In this episode, we’re joined by Arran Williams and Karan Rai from the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the organisation responsible for refereeing across the professional football leagues. During our conversation, Arran and Karan share insight into the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work taking place within PGMO, and why creating a culture of belonging is essential to the future of the game. They reflect on the importance of representation across refereeing pathways, the barriers that have historically limited access, and the practical steps being taken to widen participation and opportunity throughout the leagues. We explore what diversity and inclusion mean in the context of elite sport, the challenges referees can face both on and off the pitch, and how intentional leadership can help shape environments where officials from all backgrounds feel valued, supported and able to thrive. This is an open and thoughtful conversation about culture, representation and long-term change in refereeing in football. Arran and Karan remind us that meaningful inclusion doesn’t happen by accident, it requires commitment, visibility and sustained action. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 LinkedIn: PGMO 📲 Instagram: @fa_pgmol 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    31 min

  6. FEB 15

    Episode 12 (S8). The Statements Episode: Agree or Disagree?

    In this episode, we open up a conversation around Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) by responding to a series of thought-provoking statements and questions. Rather than offering simple answers, we explore where we agree, where we disagree, and —most importantly — why. Through honest discussion and reflection, we unpack common assumptions, tensions, and misconceptions around EDI. We consider how language, policy, lived experience, and organisational culture shape the way EDI is understood and practiced, and where good intentions can sometimes miss the mark. This episode invites listeners into the nuance behind the headlines, recognising that EDI is not just a checklist or a debate topic, but an evolving commitment that affects real people and real outcomes. We challenge each other’s viewpoints, share practical insights, and reflect on what meaningful inclusion can look like in action. Expect thoughtful dialogue and space to think more deeply about your own position. Tune in, reflect, and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    28 min

  7. FEB 1

    Episode 11 (S8). Breaking Cycles of Domestic Abuse: Starting With the Baby (feat. Lauren Seager-Smith)

    In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Seager-Smith, CEO of For Baby’s Sake, a pioneering charity working to break cycles of domestic abuse and transform life-chances for whole families — starting with the baby. During our conversation, Lauren shares the vision behind For Baby’s Sake and reflects on why supporting parents is one of the most powerful ways to protect babies and create lasting change. She talks about the importance of early intervention, beginning in pregnancy, and how working compassionately with parents can help families move forward in positive and meaningful ways. We explore how cycles of abuse take hold across generations, the realities faced by families affected by trauma and adversity, and why prevention — not just crisis response — must be central to how we think about safeguarding. Lauren also challenges us to rethink traditional approaches to family support, emphasising the need for empathy, trust and long-term commitment to change. This is a thoughtful conversation about early intervention around domestic abuse. Lauren reminds us that meaningful change starts early, and that it is important to invest support at this stage. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and follow us on all our social media platforms. 🌍 Website: forbabyssake.org.uk  📲 Instagram: @forbabyssake 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast  💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters  🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    25 min

  8. JAN 18

    Episode 10 (S8). Health Is Not Equal: Confronting Health Inequities

    We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we take a critical look at health inequities, the unfair and avoidable differences in health outcomes that continue to impact individuals and communities every day. Why do some people live longer, healthier lives simply because of where they’re born, the colour of their skin, or the resources available to them? How do systemic inequality, discrimination, and underfunded services shape who gets access to care, who is heard, and who is left behind? In this episode, we discuss how health inequities are created, sustained, and normalised across our health and social systems. We speak about power, privilege, and responsibility, centring the lived experiences behind the statistics and challenging the narratives that place blame on individuals rather than systems. We also explore what change could look like. This episode will invite you to reflect, question, and act, offering perspectives on how we can move beyond awareness towards justice, equity and collective responsibility for health. Tune in, share and join the conversation. 📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters 🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

    34 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Nadia, Fran, Eugene
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    144
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Social Matters Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Social Matters Podcast

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