Chats with Changemakers with Kate Duffy from Junction Point CIC

Kate Duffy of Junction Point CIC
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Let us inspire you as we interview North East Changemakers; ranging from Community Champions to Social Enterprise Founders to Charity Leaders. They share their origin stories and how make a difference in their community. So grab a cup of tea and enjoy!

  1. 29 JAN

    From Film Enthusiast to Community Leader: Samantha Castro on Newcastle Film Club

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Samantha Castro, founder of the Newcastle Film Club, a social enterprise dedicated to community filmmaking, creative collaboration, and grassroots film production in North East England. Samantha shares her journey from a lifelong film enthusiast to a community leader, highlighting how her passion for film evolved into a platform for inclusive filmmaking and creative skill-building. The discussion covers the club’s mission to make filmmaking accessible, the challenges of running a community-driven social enterprise, and the importance of local support networks in fostering sustainable creative communities. Samantha also offers insights into membership benefits, workshops, networking opportunities, and how collaboration with local organizations enhances growth and impact. Key Takeaways Samantha Castro’s journey began with a love for DVD bonus features and film culture. High school experiences helped her realise that filmmaking could be a career. Newcastle Film Club provides a supportive community for filmmakers of all levels. Workshops, networking events, and access to filmmaking resources are core offerings. The club works to break down barriers to creative participation and encourage inclusivity. Membership benefits include access to resources, mentorship, and discounted film opportunities. Transitioning to a company limited by guarantee improved sustainability and governance. Key lessons include the importance of focus, follow-through, and project completion. Collaboration with local organisations and creative partners strengthens community engagement. Community support is vital for nurturing grassroots filmmaking initiatives. Chapters 00:00 The Origins of a Film Passion 03:38 Building the Newcastle Film Club 06:23 The Business Model Explained 08:58 Target Audience and Community Engagement 11:51 Lessons Learned on the Journey 16:43 Future Aspirations for the Film Club 23:48 Chats with Changemakers 2026 Outro Useful Links Learn More Newcastle Film Club www.newcastlefilmclub.co.uk Connect with Newcastle Film Club on Social Media Instagram https://www.instagram.com/filminnewcastle/?hl=en Facebook https://www.facebook.com/NewcastleFilmClub/ Connect with Samantha Castro on Linkedin https://uk.linkedin.com/in/samanthacastro1 Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    24 min

  2. 15 JAN

    Transforming Waste into Opportunity: Inside Repurposeful CIC with Vicky Morgan

    This episode of Chats with Changemakers is generously sponsored by the Social Enterprise Academy, who champion leadership and learning for people driving social change. Be sure to check out the links in the show notes for accredited and non-accredited opportunities in your area. A huge thank you to the Social Enterprise Academy for supporting this series and for their ongoing commitment to helping people grow the skills and confidence to create meaningful impact.  Find Out More About Social Enterprise Academy https://socialenterprise.academy/ - In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Vicky Morgan, founder of Repurposeful CIC, a Northumberland-based social enterprise focused on creative reuse, sustainability, and community-led impact. Vicky shares her journey into social entrepreneurship, exploring how a personal search for purpose led to the creation of Repurposeful CIC — a social enterprise tackling waste reduction through a community scrap store, inclusive volunteering, and sustainable growth practices. The conversation dives into the realities of building a social enterprise from the ground up, including navigating imposter syndrome, developing a growth mindset, and learning how to grow sustainably without burning out. Vicky explains the importance of community engagement, how inclusive volunteering can support people facing barriers to participation, and why flexibility is essential when building values-driven organisations. Key Takeaways Repurposeful CIC is a Northumberland-based social enterprise focused on reuse and sustainability. Vicky Morgan’s journey began with a personal search for purpose and impact. Starting before everything is figured out is often necessary in social entrepreneurship. Sustainable growth should be intentional, values-led, and community-focused. Inclusive volunteering creates opportunities for people with barriers to participation. Community engagement is essential to building long-term social impact. The “GPS approach” supports flexibility and resilience in strategy planning. Imposter syndrome is a common challenge for social enterprise founders. Creative reuse plays a key role in reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Building a social enterprise is a continuous learning journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vicky's Journey 03:30 The Birth of Repurposeful CIC 06:17 Understanding the Triple Impact Model 08:54 Challenges and Milestones in Establishing a Scrap Store 11:53 Community Engagement and Volunteer Involvement 14:35 Lessons Learned and Advice for New Entrepreneurs 17:16 How to Support Repurposeful CIC 18:58 Embracing the Journey of Growth 21:29 Permaculture Principles in Organisational Development 23:14 The GPS Approach to Strategy and Resilience 23:16 Outro Useful Links Learn More About Repurposeful CIC https://www.repurposeful.org.uk/ Connect with North East Support Directory on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/p/Repurposeful-CIC-100075999095850/ Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    24 min

  3. 11/12/2025

    Unlocking Grants with AI: Inside the North East Support Directory: Ben Mushen

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy sits down with Ben Mushen, designer-turned-social entrepreneur and founder of the North East Support Directory, an AI-powered, self-service signposting tool that makes finding opportunities relevant to your organisation a breeze.   Ben opens up about his mission to make business opportunities more accessible through technology and AI, and how his personal frustrations sparked the creation of a platform that helps others thrive. From bootstrapping a tech solution to navigating the world of social enterprise, Ben shares the highs, the hurdles, and the real-world impact his work aims to create.  The conversation dives into the importance of visibility in funding, the power of collaboration, and the role innovation plays in community growth. He also highlights how everyone can support the movement by spreading the word and contributing to a more connected business ecosystem. Key Takeaways Ben transitioned from design work into social entrepreneurship. The North East Support Directory is built to democratize access to business opportunities. AI helps match users with relevant grants and funding streams. The platform grew from Ben’s own challenges in accessing support. Both free and premium options make the tool accessible to startups and founders. Raising awareness is vital to help businesses benefit from available grants. Community engagement fuels the platform’s success and evolution. Building tech requires constant iteration and adaptability. The directory aims to measure the social and economic impact of funding. Ben hopes to expand the platform beyond the North East in the future. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ben Mushen and His Journey 02:45 The Role of AI in Democratizing Business Opportunities 05:38 Building the North East Support Directory 08:28 Products and Services Offered 11:07 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations 13:53 Call to Action and Community Engagement Useful Links Learn More About North East Support Directory https://www.nesd.co.uk/ Connect with North East Support Directory on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/north-east-support-directory/ Connect with Ben Mushen on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-mushen/ Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Connect with Corrina Mulholland & Gateshead Community Organisation ● Website: https://www.gatesheadcommunity.org/ ● LinkedIn:  https://uk.linkedin.com/in/corrina-mulholland-bb039228 ● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatesheadcommunityorganisation/ Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    22 min

  4. 27/11/2025

    How One Entrepreneur is Transforming Communities in Gateshead: Corrina Mulholland

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy interviews Corrina, entrepreneur and founder of the Gateshead Community Organisation, a community interest company focused on social impact. Corrina shares her journey of discovering her entrepreneurial spirit after being diagnosed with ADHD and how her passion for helping others led her to establish a platform for community support. She discusses the challenges faced in starting and running a social enterprise, the importance of having a supportive team, and the lessons learned from past experiences. The conversation highlights the value of collaboration, trust, and structured agreements in creating meaningful social change. Key Takeaways: Corrina discovered her entrepreneurial spirit after being diagnosed with ADHD. Her passion lies in doing what she loves while helping others. The journey of starting Gateshead Community Organisation was serendipitous. Community interest companies can be powerful models for social change. Trusting instincts is important, but having a solid team is crucial. Past experiences shaped Corrina’s approach to her current business. Clear agreements help strengthen social enterprises. Helping others to improve their circumstances is a central principle. Networking and collaboration are key to success in social enterprises. Corrina embraces being a “troublemaker” to challenge norms and drive change. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey  01:59 Finding Purpose and Passion  06:50 The Birth of Gateshead Community Organisation  13:58 The Community Interest Company Model  16:00 Lessons Learned and Challenges Faced  20:53 Reflections on Past Experiences  22:21 How to Support Gateshead Community Organisation  22:50 Outro Useful Links Learn more about Gateshead Community Organisation https://www.gatesheadcommunity.org/ Watch ‘Our Stories 2024 - Gateshead Community Organisation’ (With Craig) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZKXmiKF8ZU Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Connect with Corrina Mulholland & Gateshead Community Organisation ● Website: https://www.gatesheadcommunity.org/ ● LinkedIn:  https://uk.linkedin.com/in/corrina-mulholland-bb039228 ● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatesheadcommunityorganisation/ Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    26 min

  5. 13/11/2025

    Empowering Communities Through Creativity: Ben Jones on Dingy Butterflies CIC

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy interviews Ben Jones, founder of Dingy Butterflies CIC, a social enterprise focused on community engagement through the arts. Ben shares his journey from being an artist to establishing a platform that fosters collaboration with local organisations. He discusses the importance of understanding community needs, the challenges faced in social enterprise work, and the impact of collaborative projects aimed at addressing issues like food poverty. The conversation highlights the significance of partnerships and the ongoing struggle for funding in the social enterprise sector. Key Takeaways: Collaboration is essential for effective community engagement.Dingy Butterflies aims to support local communities through art.Understanding community needs is crucial for social enterprises.Partnerships with local organisations enhance project impact.Art can be a powerful tool for community support.Funding challenges are a common issue for social enterprises.Engaging with young people is a priority for community projects.Representation of the North East in funding discussions is vital.Community work requires navigating different organisational agendas.Social enterprises must adapt to changing funding landscapes.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Passion and Community Engagement 03:03 The Story Behind Dindy Butterflies 06:34 Exploring Community Arts and Collaboration 11:32 Challenges and Opportunities in Community Work 15:42 Call to Action and Future Aspirations 18:39 The Power of True Collaboration 20:28 Challenges in Funding for Social Enterprises 20:36 Outro Useful Links Learn more about the Business with Purpose Accelerator https://junctionpoint.co.uk/business-with-purpose-accelerator/ Learn more about Dingy Butterflies CIC https://www.dingybutterflies.org/ Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn: / kateduffyuk ● Facebook: / junctionpointuk ● Instagram: / junctionpointcic Connect with Ben Jones ● Website: https://www.dingybutterflies.org/ ● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bendjones/ ● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DingyButt/?locale=en_GB Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    21 min

  6. 30/10/2025

    From Pet Parent to Nutrition Expert: Alexia Mellor on Revolutionsing Pet Nutrition

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy chats to Alexia Mellor, who discusses her journey into canine nutrition, driven by her passion for dogs and their health. She shares how her personal experience with her dog, Lucky, led her to create the FETCH framework, which emphasises fresh food and holistic health for dogs.  Alexia also addresses common myths in pet nutrition, the environmental impact of pet care, and the importance of empowering pet owners to make informed decisions. She outlines the vision for FETCH as an ecosystem that supports both pet health and environmental sustainability, and invites changemakers to join her mission. Key takeaways: Alexia's journey began with her dog Lucky's health issues. FETCH aims to improve dog nutrition and health holistically. The importance of fresh food in canine diets is emphasised. Pet parents often lack proper nutritional guidance for their pets. FETCH provides a framework for proactive pet health management. The 81% campaign addresses the misuse of flea and tick treatments. Environmental impacts of pet care are a significant concern. FETCH seeks to educate both pet parents and retailers. The business model is designed to be an ecosystem of support. Community involvement is crucial for FETCH's growth and impact. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Passion and Purpose 03:01 The Journey to Canine Nutrition 05:57 The FETCH Framework Explained 08:51 Addressing the Kibble Myth 12:05 Building the FETCH Ecosystem 15:09 The 81% Campaign and Environmental Impact 17:59 Future Vision and Global Impact 20:49 Call to Action for Changemakers Useful Links Learn more about the Business with Purpose Accelerator https://junctionpoint.co.uk/business-with-purpose-accelerator/ Purchase your FREE FETCH starter pack herehttps://www.learnfetch.com/pages/fetch-starter-pack Connect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC ● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn:   / kateduffyuk   ● Facebook:   / junctionpointuk    ● Instagram:   / junctionpointcic    Connect with Alexia Mellor ● Website: https://mysticdogmama.com/fetch-membership ● LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/learn-fetch ● Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/people/Mystic-Dog-Mama/61554207347284/  ● Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mysticdogmama/?hl=en Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    25 min

  7. 17/10/2025

    Celebrating Life, Breaking Barriers: Kate Mukungu on Inclusive and Affordable Life Ceremonies

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy speaks with Kate Mukungu, a community celebrant dedicated to making ceremonies more inclusive, personal, and affordable.Kate shares her inspiring journey into celebrancy and her mission to challenge the traditional approach to funerals, weddings, and life celebrations. The conversation delves into the realities of funeral poverty in the UK, the importance of death education, and how personalised ceremonies can bring comfort, meaning, and connection to communities.Together, they discuss how open conversations about death, dying, and end-of-life planning can reduce stigma, empower families, and ensure everyone—regardless of background or income—can access a ceremony that reflects their values and story.Key Takeaways● Kate Mukungu is a community celebrant championing inclusivity and personalisation in ceremonies.● Funeral poverty continues to affect families across the UK, highlighting the need for affordable and compassionate options.● Personalised ceremonies allow individuals and families to celebrate life in ways that feel authentic and meaningful.● Death education helps to break taboos and supports more open, informed conversations about dying and bereavement.● Inclusivity and representation are vital to creating ceremonies that resonate with diverse communities.● Community engagement can help address financial and emotional barriers around end-of-life planning.● Collaboration and creativity enhance the social impact of celebrancy work.● Kate envisions a future where every person can access a meaningful, dignified, and affordable ceremony.Chapters● 00:00 Introduction● 02:14 Becoming a Community Celebrant● 05:30 The Power of Personalised Ceremonies● 10:42 Understanding Funeral Poverty● 15:26 Death Education and Community Awareness● 20:18 Inclusivity and Representation in Modern Celebrancy● 25:40 Collaboration and Social Impact● 30:02 Rethinking How We Celebrate and Commemorate LifeUseful LinksConnect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CIC● Website: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateduffyuk/● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JunctionPointUK/ ● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junctionpointcic/ Connect with Kate Mukungu● Website: https://www.katemukungucelebrant.com/ ● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kate-mukungu-celebrant-19b6672b7/● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateMukunguCelebrant/● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kate_community_celebrant/Come and join our free 'North East Changemakers Community' on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1YA7oQVvd3/

    22 min

  8. 02/10/2025

    Prescribing Change: Guy Pilkington on Social Prescribing, Partnerships, and Wellness Beyond Medicine

    In this episode of Chats with Changemakers, host Kate Duffy interviews Guy Pilkington, chair of the charity Ways to Wellness. Guy shares his journey from being a GP to leading a charity focused on improving health outcomes through non-medical interventions. The conversation explores the importance of perseverance, building relationships, and the impact of social prescribing in healthcare. Guy discusses the challenges and successes of implementing these changes and emphasises the need for collaboration and a holistic approach to wellness. Key Takeaways • Guy Pilkington transitioned from a GP to chair of Ways to Wellness. • The charity focuses on non-medical interventions to improve health outcomes. • Perseverance is essential for effecting change in healthcare. • Building good relationships is crucial for successful collaboration. • Social prescribing can significantly impact individuals' health and wellbeing. • Measuring impact is challenging but necessary for demonstrating success. • Ways to Wellness has successfully engaged 11,000 people in support programs. • The model of social prescribing has influenced national healthcare practices. • Collaboration and partnership working are vital for achieving goals. • Guy emphasises the importance of a relational approach over strict performance metrics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:15 The Genesis of Ways to Wellness 04:02 Understanding Non-Medical Interventions 11:02 Measuring Impact and Outcomes 16:21 National Influence and Future Directions 21:32 Reflections on Change and Collaboration 28:13 Understanding Wellness Beyond Medical Interventions Useful LinksConnect with Kate Duffy and Junction Point CICWebsite: https://junctionpoint.co.uk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateduffyuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JunctionPointUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junctionpointcic/ Connect with Guy PilkingtonWays to Wellness Website: www.waystowellness.org.uk/meet-our-boardLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ways-to-wellness-

    31 min
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Let us inspire you as we interview North East Changemakers; ranging from Community Champions to Social Enterprise Founders to Charity Leaders. They share their origin stories and how make a difference in their community. So grab a cup of tea and enjoy!

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