The Matalan People Podcast

MATALAN
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Welcome to The Matalan People Podcast – celebrating the everyday heroes who make Matalan what it is. In this series, we’ll hear from colleagues across the business, explore key wellbeing topics, and shine a light on the incredible stories within our colleague communities. Expect inspiring interviews with team members, special guests, and our execs – all sharing their journeys, insights, and experiences. Want to get involved? We’d love to hear from you – just reach out to heyes_r@matalan.co.uk

Episodes

  1. Jun 30

    Proud Chat: My Pride, My Way – Voices, Visibility & Why It Still Matters

    In this special Pride edition of Proud Chat, we move beyond definitions and dive into something more personal: what Pride truly means to each of us. From visibility and authenticity, to allyship, education, and the lived realities behind the headlines, our panel share honest reflections on how Pride shows up in their lives—at work, at home, and in society. The conversation explores: Why visibility and representation still matter todayThe importance of education, allyship and speaking upHow Pride evolves at different stages of lifeReal-life experiences of supporting children, friends and colleaguesThe role businesses can play in creating inclusive culturesThis episode is open, heartfelt and at times challenging—because Pride isn’t just a celebration. It’s a journey, a responsibility, and a conversation we all need to keep having. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this is a reminder that Pride means something different to everyone… and that’s exactly why it matters.

    Proud Chat: My Pride, My Way – Voices, Visibility & Why It Still Matters

  2. Jun 1

    Pride Month: Proud Chat - What is Pride?

    Welcome to the Matalan People Podcast, celebrating the everyday heroes who make Matalan what it is. This episode is brought to you by the Proud Colleague Network. Today, we’re diving into a powerful conversation about Pride—where it began, what it stands for, and why it remains so important. From the history of the Stonewall riots to the realities faced by LGBTQ+ communities today, our colleagues share honest reflections on protest, celebration, visibility, and the work still to be done. Join us as we explore what Pride truly means, past and present, and how we can all play a part in creating a more inclusive future.

    Pride Month: Proud Chat - What is Pride?

  3. May 6

    DEAF AWARENESS WEEK: LIVING AND WORKING WITH HEARING LOSS

    Welcome to the Matalan People Podcast — celebrating the everyday heroes who make Matalan what it is. This episode is brought to you by the Maskateers Colleague Network. In this episode, we mark Deaf Awareness Week with an honest conversation about lived experience, accessibility, and inclusion. Sophie Bell is joined by Cassie from our Talent Development team, who shares her journey of living and working with hearing loss — and the small actions that can make a big difference for us all.

    DEAF AWARENESS WEEK: LIVING AND WORKING WITH HEARING LOSS

  4. 11/19/2025

    The Retail Trust

    Today, we’re marking International Men’s Day and celebrating the first anniversary of the MataMen Network! To honour the moment, Dual Site Manager Fliss Jones sits down with Lauren Smith from the Retail Trust — a support service available to all Matalan colleagues, even though we know men often turn to it less than others. In this episode, they’ll explore what the Retail Trust does, who they can support, and the wide range of help they offer.

    The Retail Trust

  5. 10/15/2025

    Breast Cancer Awareness Month

    October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to recognise those affected, celebrate the survivors, and raise awareness about early detection, treatment, and support. In. this episode, Abbie Clements sits down with Julia Hassall, who shares her personal journey with breast cancer — from the moment she was diagnosed, to how she managed work during treatment, through to her surgery and eventual return to work.Together, they explore what it means to balance recovery, resilience, and everyday life

  6. 10/03/2025

    Sean's Place

    In this episode, Andrew Leong sits down with Debbi Rogers, the inspiring founder of Sean’s Place, a mental health charity created in memory of her brother, Sean, who tragically lost his life to suicide. Debbi shares her deeply personal journey, the challenges she faced, and the determination that led her to build a safe, supportive space for men struggling with their mental health. We talk about the vital work Sean’s Place does in breaking down stigma, providing community and connection, and offering hope to those who may feel alone. This conversation is both moving and uplifting, reminding us of the strength that can come from loss and the importance of support networks in saving lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that help, and hope are always within reach.

    Sean's Place

  7. 07/24/2025

    A Conversation with The Samaritans

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Rachel Howley, Development Manager at The Samaritans of Liverpool and Merseyside, to explore the incredible, life-changing work carried out by this vital charity. The Samaritans are dedicated to preventing suicide through the power of human connection. Their trained volunteers offer a lifeline to those in crisis — always listening, never judging. Whether it's: · For people calling for change with those who need to listen. · With people who’ve been there before, with those struggling now. · Providing a safe space in uncertain times. Every 10 seconds, The Samaritans answer a call for help. Day and night, 365 days a year, their volunteers from all walks of life offer empathy and understanding. Beyond the phone lines, The Samaritans campaign tirelessly to raise awareness, influence change, and build partnerships that support suicide prevention across the UK. Tune in to hear how this extraordinary organisation makes a difference — and how you can support their mission. Links · https://www.samaritans.org/ · Volunteer for Samaritans: Volunteer for Samaritans | Support us | Samaritans · Donate: https://samaritanscommunity.enthuse.com/liverpoolandmerseysidesamaritan

    A Conversation with The Samaritans

  8. 07/14/2025

    The Matamen Arms - with Carl and Gary

    Carl and Gary are back! In honour of Alcohol Awareness Week, they’ve opened the doors to the Matamen Arms — a virtual pub serving up a wide range of alcohol-free drinks. In this special tasting session, the duo sample and rate a huge selection of alcohol-free options, sharing honest reviews to help you find the best picks for cutting back or going alcohol-free. Whether you're sober curious or looking for tasty alternatives, this episode has something for you.

    The Matamen Arms - with Carl and Gary

  9. 05/16/2025

    Mental health Awareness Week - Chasing the Stigma

    Jake Mills is a Liverpool-born stand-up comedian, writer, and mental health advocate who transformed personal adversity into a mission to improve mental health support across the UK. In 2013, after battling depression and surviving a suicide attempt at the age of 24, Jake publicly shared his experience. The overwhelming response from others facing similar struggles highlighted a critical gap in accessible mental health resources, inspiring him to take action. In response, Jake founded Chasing the Stigma, a national mental health charity dedicated to normalising mental health conversations and ensuring that everyone can access appropriate support when needed. Central to this mission is the Hub of Hope, a groundbreaking, location-based app that connects users to over 14,500 local and national mental health services. Recognised by NHS England as the primary national signposting tool for mental health services, the Hub of Hope has become an integral part of mental health strategies across the UK

    Mental health Awareness Week - Chasing the Stigma

  10. 05/01/2025

    Matamen: Carl and Gary - Life without Alcohol

    This week, we speak to Carl Heathcote and Gary Gagen from the Matamen network. They talk about their lives without alcohol and what affect its had on them.

    Matamen: Carl and Gary - Life without Alcohol
  • 10 Episodes

About

Welcome to The Matalan People Podcast – celebrating the everyday heroes who make Matalan what it is. In this series, we’ll hear from colleagues across the business, explore key wellbeing topics, and shine a light on the incredible stories within our colleague communities. Expect inspiring interviews with team members, special guests, and our execs – all sharing their journeys, insights, and experiences. Want to get involved? We’d love to hear from you – just reach out to heyes_r@matalan.co.uk

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