About Basingstoke

Communicast Ltd

About Basingstoke is the podcast network for Basingstoke, UK. On this channel we'll share our main shows on topics including Business, Community, Wellbeing, Home & Family, and Leisure. You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke. BE PART OF IT We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact MESSAGE US Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

  1. Aug 12

    YOU ARE NOT ALONE - The Pressure to Cope

    In this episode, Marie explores the heavy, often unspoken expectations we face to "keep going" no matter what life throws at us. Following up on previous discussions about overwhelm and high-functioning anxiety, this conversation dives into why so many of us feel compelled to wear an "I've got this" mask and how to reframe what "coping" really means. Key Takeaways & Discussion PointsThe "I've Got This" Mask: Why societal and personal expectations pressure us to hide our struggles, leading to exhaustion.The Invisible Rucksack: A metaphor for the unseen burdens—work stress, relationship challenges, grief, and health concerns—that everyone carries quietly.Understanding Coping: Why coping isn't a simple "yes or no" state, and how you can be successful or functional while still needing support.Reframing "Being a Burden": Why asking for help isn't a sign of weakness or a burden, but an opportunity for connection and kindness.Circles of Control exercise: A practical tool using three concentric circles to categorize life's stresses:Control: Your direct actions, choices, boundaries, and how you spend time.Influence: Relationships and workplace dynamics you can affect, but not entirely determine.Concern: Broader world events, the economy, or other people's decisions that lie outside your power.Featured Community Organizations Cruse Bereavement Support: UK-based charity offering free bereavement support, guidance, and a national helpline for adults and young people.Website: www.cruse.org.ukHelpline: 0808 808 1677Natural Basingstoke: A local charity promoting mental well-being and community connection through local nature conservation.Website: www.naturalbasingstoke.org.uk Weekly Action StepTake a piece of paper and draw three concentric circles labeled Control, Influence, and Concern. Pick one thing weighing on your mind today, place it in its respective circle, and assess: If it's in Concern, can you stop expecting yourself to fix it?If it's in Influence, what is one small action step?If it's in Control, what is your very next step?Support Resources Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (Free, 24/7) Next Episode Preview: Putting Our Phones Down — Exploring digital disconnect and mental well-being. -- About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

    YOU ARE NOT ALONE - The Pressure to Cope
  2. Aug 10

    NATURAL BASINGSTOKE - Can Basingstoke balance new housing with nature recovery?

    In this podcast, Natural Basingstoke's Jack is joined in his garden by Jill, leader of the charity, to discuss the key environmental challenges facing the borough of Basingstoke. They dive into the threats posed by rapid housing development, water abstraction from local chalk aquifers, and habitat fragmentation. Jill outlines Natural Basingstoke’s vision for nature recovery, including establishing a local nature recovery forum, mapping green/blue corridors, and utilizing nature-based solutions. Key Topics Covered: Introduction to Natural Basingstoke: Overview of the local charity advocacy work in the borough.Current Environmental Concerns: The impact of proposed thousand-home developments on water resources and local wildlife habitats.Water Security & Chalk Streams: Threats facing local chalk aquifers from pollution and over-abstraction, and the need for stronger protections.Building in Harmony with Nature: The importance of mapping green corridors and buffer zones around ancient woodlands and rivers.Nature-Based Solutions: Using natural infrastructure (e.g., sustainable drainage and reed beds) to tackle flooding and pollution cost-effectively.Action Plans & Proposals:Establishing a Nature Recovery Forum with local stakeholders.Creating a local Nature Recovery Network Map alongside development plans.Issuing a "Call for Sites for Nature" to identify areas for restoration.Recent Local Progress: Highlights from the local MP's green roundtable and recent council action on water security.How to Get Involved: Engaging with local representatives, screening nature documentaries, and taking small actions at home. Connect & Contact: Facebook & Instagram: @NaturalBasingstokeEmail: admin@naturalbasingstoke.org.uk This podcast was produced by Natural Basingstoke. -- About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills. We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

    NATURAL BASINGSTOKE - Can Basingstoke balance new housing with nature recovery?
  3. Aug 3

    LIVE WITH LUKE: Mark Jones chats with Basingstoke's MP live at The Forge

    Host: Mark Jones (Mr Blue Sky Conversations / Stronger Together Forum) Guest: Luke Murphy MP (Basingstoke MP) Venue: The Forge at Anvil Arts, Basingstoke Episode Overview: In Part 1 of this special live event recorded by About Basingstoke, host Mark Jones sits down for a one-on-one conversation with Basingstoke MP, Luke Murphy. They cover a wide range of topics—from political changes in government and national security to key local issues affecting Basingstoke residents. Part 2 - the audience Q&A will be released on Tuesday 4th August. Key Discussion Points:Political Landscape & Leadership: Reflected on recent political shifts, the transition from Keir Starmer to Andy Burnham, and maintaining loyalty while navigating national challenges.National Security & Armed Forces: Insights from Luke’s experience on the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme (RAF) and Britain’s role in supporting Ukraine and NATO.Local Healthcare & Education: Tackling access to GP appointments, dentistry, and advocating for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms.Cost of Living & Community: Discussing economic pressures on local families and celebrating Basingstoke’s vibrant volunteer network and small businesses.Social & Parliamentary Issues: Views on the assisted dying debate, local flag displays, and promoting visible, accessible representation. Find out more about the Stronger Together Forum at mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk Luke Murphy's website: https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/ ==== HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke. BE PART OF IT We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

  4. Jul 30

    YOU ARE NOT ALONE: High-Functioning Anxiety

    In this episode, Marie dives into high-functioning anxiety—a experience where someone may look calm, organized, and successful on the outside while struggling internally with constant worry, self-doubt, and perfectionism. Marie discusses how to spot it, why it often goes unnoticed, and practical tools to build healthier mental boundaries. Key Discussion PointsWhat is High-Functioning Anxiety? Although not a formal medical diagnosis, it describes individuals who appear to perform brilliantly externally while experiencing significant internal distress.The Hidden Pressure: High-functioning anxiety is often praised because traits like being organized, reliable, and productive are valued by society, making the underlying stress easy to miss."Wellbeing Windows": Small, intentional breaks you can build into your day to interrupt overthinking without adding pressure:30 Seconds: Deep breathing, stretching, or looking out the window.3 Minutes: A quick walk outside, listening to a favorite song, or a physical body scan.30 Minutes: Engaging in hobbies like reading, gardening, or talking to a friend to reconnect with yourself.Setting Boundaries with Thoughts: Managing rumination by acknowledging a worry, jotting it down, and scheduling a specific time to address it later rather than letting it dominate your whole day.Featured Community SupportBasingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA): Connecting local people with voluntary groups, support networks, and community opportunities.Website: www.bvaction.org.ukMindspace Foundation: Offering affordable, accessible community counselling services in Basingstoke for individuals, children, and couples.Website: www.mindspacefoundation.co.ukPhone: 01256 423 892Urgent SupportIf you need immediate emotional support, the Samaritans are available 24/7 at 116 123. ------- About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

    YOU ARE NOT ALONE: High-Functioning Anxiety

About

About Basingstoke is the podcast network for Basingstoke, UK. On this channel we'll share our main shows on topics including Business, Community, Wellbeing, Home & Family, and Leisure. You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke. BE PART OF IT We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact MESSAGE US Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!