Listening First

Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram

Listening First: The Podcast on Rehabilitation and Recovery Hosted by Patrick Boyd and Ben Marram, Listening First is a podcast dedicated to exploring the journey of rehabilitation and recovery. Taking a not-knowing position, Ben and Patrick approach each conversation with openness and curiosity, creating space for genuine dialogue and new perspectives. Each episode dives into the challenges, breakthroughs, and personal stories that shape the path back to health and independence. With a focus on empathy, expertise, and collaboration, Listening First brings listeners thoughtful conversations that inspire hope and highlight the human side of healing. Whether you’re a professional in healthcare, social care, law, someone on your own recovery journey, or simply curious about how people rebuild their lives, Listening First offers insight, support, and encouragement every step of the way.

Episodes

  1. JAN 30

    The Cost of Dishonesty, with Lois Norris (Part 2)

    In part 2 of this 2-part series, the conversation delves further into the complexities of fundamental dishonesty within the legal system, particularly in relation to rehabilitation and recovery. Lois Norris, a barrister, shares her insights on the importance of thoroughness, transparency, and integrity in clinical and legal practice. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by clients in navigating their claims and the emotional toll of being accused of dishonesty. The episode emphasises the need for professionals to maintain a balance between scrutiny and support for their clients, ensuring that the process remains fair and just for all parties involved. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Part 2 01:33 Understanding Inconsistency and Honesty 04:21 The Emotional Journey of Claimants 07:47 Navigating Integrity and Transparency 11:36 The Role of Scrutiny in Rehabilitation 16:39 The Balance of Fairness in Legal Processes 21:54 Future Directions in Addressing Dishonesty 26:31 Rehabilitation as Evidence in Legal Cases 31:22 Misconceptions About the Legal Profession 36:27 Introduction to Thoroughness and Transparency 37:19 The Role of Detail in Professional Practice 38:22 The Importance of Authenticity and Integrity 38:45 Reflections on Imposter Syndrome and Mentorship 39:59 Closing Thoughts Credits: Patrick Boyd - Co-host/Producer Dr Ben Marram - Co-host/Producer Lois Norris - Guest ©2026 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram. All rights Reserved.

    41 min

  2. JAN 20

    The Cost of Dishonesty, with Lois Norris (Part 1)

    In this episode of Listening First, Patrick and Ben speak with barrister Lois Norris for part 1 of their 2-part series which explores the complex topic of fundamental dishonesty in personal injury claims. Lois shares her insights on how dishonesty is defined within the legal framework (in the UK), referencing a landmark case involving edge sorting at a casino that reached the Supreme Court. The discussion delves into the nuances of what constitutes dishonesty, emphasising the importance of an objective standard based on societal perceptions. Lois explains the distinction between general dishonesty and fundamental dishonesty, highlighting how the latter can significantly impact the outcome of a claim, including the potential for dismissal and financial repercussions for claimants. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lois Norris and Her Journey into Law 06:52 Understanding the Role of Barristers vs. Solicitors 09:33 Defining Dishonesty in Legal Terms 12:41 The Concept of Fundamental Dishonesty 15:43 Consequences of Fundamental Dishonesty 17:39 Real-Life Implications and Case Examples 20:49 The Impact of Memory and Inconsistency in Claims 23:59 Social Media's Role in Perceptions of Dishonesty 26:54 The Human Element in Rehabilitation and Recovery 29:54 White Coat Syndrome and Its Implications 37:56 Exploring Dishonesty in Law 39:06 Anticipating the Role of a Barrister 39:33 Outro/CreditsCredits: Patrick Boyd - Co-host/Producer Dr Ben Marram - Co-host/Producer Lois Norris - Guest ©2026 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram. All rights Reserved.

    40 min

  3. 12/11/2025

    Music is Medicine, with Elizabeth Nightingale

    "Music can do far more than you think." - Elizabeth Nightingale In this episode, Ben and Patrick explore the transformative power of music therapy, particularly neurologic music therapy (NMT), in rehabilitation. Elizabeth Nightingale, a neurologic music therapist, shares her insights on how music can facilitate cognitive, emotional, and physical healing. The conversation delves into various techniques used in NMT, the neuroscience behind music's impact on the brain, and the importance of integrating music therapy within multidisciplinary teams. Elizabeth emphasises the significance of personalising music therapy to each client's unique experiences and cultural backgrounds, highlighting its role in fostering connections and enhancing overall wellbeing. Elizabeth is an experienced Neurologic Music Therapist, bringing over ten years of specialist clinical practice within acute, inpatient, and community neurorehabilitation. She has worked with both children and adults across a wide range of settings, and has expertise in acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, disorders of consciousness, and aphasia. She is a registered Neurologic Music Therapy® Fellow affiliate of the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy® and is trained in the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC). Since 2018, Elizabeth has worked as an Expert Witness, drawing on her wide-ranging clinical experience to identify and cost appropriate NMT provision and specialist equipment for children and adults with neurological diagnoses. Alongside her clinical work, she actively contributes to the profession through several voluntary roles, including positions on the NMT™ Academy Advisory Council, Acquired Brain Injury London, and as Learning Disability Network Coordinator for the British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT). A few key links: Neurologic Music Therapy® website  for those interested to learn more about NMT™, the research base, and training options: www.nmtacademy.coMusic and the Brain visual: https://www.merriammusic.com/research/the-neuro-plastic-side-of-melodies-how-music-rewires-the-brains-cognitive-sockets/Example video of NMT™ sensorimotor techniques in action for a patient who sustained a TBI: https://youtu.be/cq8fv3Hpoao?si=gWmgnB0I8yeNQ_drNightingale NMT™ website: www.nightingalenmt.co.ukNMT™ at the heart of rehab visual: https://www.instagram.com/p/DReX9bNDXoG/?igsh=MW83a3R1a3JuNmRweA== Guest Elizabeth Nightingale, Neurologic Music Therapist, Nightingale NMT www.listeningfirstpod.com © 2025 Patrick Boyd & Dr Ben Marram. All rights reserved.

    1h 9m

  4. 11/21/2025

    Understanding Mental Capacity, with Dr Oli Bekarma and Eleanor Tallon

    "Mental capacity is decision-specific." In this episode, Patrick and Ben explore the complexities of the Mental Capacity Act (UK) and its implications for rehabilitation and recovery, with guests Dr Oli Bekarma and Eleanor Tallon. They discuss the principles of the Act, the role of professionals in assessing capacity, and the impact of emotions on decision-making. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding mental capacity as decision-specific and context-dependent, while also addressing the challenges faced by practitioners in this field. The episode concludes with reflections on best practices and the need for continuous learning in mental capacity practice. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 03:38 The Role of Social Workers and Psychologists 05:16 Defining Mental Capacity 06:52 The Presumption of Capacity 09:21 Unwise Decisions vs. Lack of Capacity 11:18 Navigating Complex Decisions 13:56 The Importance of Context in Assessments 15:30 Building Rapport in Assessments 16:42 The Impact of Executive Dysfunction 18:55 Philosophical Considerations in Decision Making 20:29 Conclusion and Reflections 26:42 Emotional Influences on Decision-Making 29:02 Navigating Assessment Anxiety 30:54 The Role of Hope in Capacity Assessments 33:11 Understanding Capacity: Beyond Binary Thinking 36:58 The Burden of Decision-Making in Assessments 39:57 Pet Hates and Pro Tips in Mental Capacity Assessments Guests: Dr Oliver Bekarma, Clinical Psychologist of Clarity Psychology Eleanor Tallon, Independent Social Worker of MCA Professional www.listeningfirstpod.com © Patrick Boyd & Dr Ben Marram. All rights reserved.

    50 min

  5. 10/21/2025

    Unlocking Communication, with Matthew Nakonesky

    "Therapy should be meaningful" - Matthew Nakonesky In this episode of the Listening First podcast, hosts Patrick Boyd and Ben Marram welcome Matthew Nakonesky, Principal Speech and Language Therapist from Speech Therapy North East. The conversation explores the multifaceted role of speech and language therapists, particularly in the context of cognitive communication disorders. Matthew shares insights into his journey into the profession, the importance of real-life applications of therapy, and the innovative group therapy approaches he employs to help clients navigate communication challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of peer support, project-based group therapy, and the ongoing evaluation of client progress, all while emphasizing the need for meaningful and purposeful interventions in rehabilitation. Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Rehabilitation Podcast 01:09 Meet Matthew Nakonesy: A Journey into Speech Therapy 02:57 Understanding the Role of a Speech and Language Therapist 05:19 Cognitive Communication Disorders Explained 08:11 The Importance of Real-Life Context in Therapy 09:08 Innovative Approaches to Cognitive Communication Interventions 11:46 The Role of Communication Groups in Rehabilitation 14:14 Evidence-Based Practices in Group Therapy 16:53 Purpose-Driven Therapy and Community Engagement 20:11 Raising Awareness Through Education 22:59 Monitoring Progress in Communication Groups 26:13 The Power of Peer Feedback 28:43 Navigating Group Dynamics 31:41 Surprises and Learnings in Group Therapy 34:36 Integrating Therapy with Multidisciplinary Teams 38:34 Advice for Aspiring Speech Therapists Links: Herbie the Dinosaur video: https://youtu.be/328J0E8vq9g Episode Credits: Patrick Boyd - Producer/Co-host Dr Ben Marram - Producer/Co-host Matthew Nakonesy - Guest (Speech Therapy North East) For links to the following, please email listeningfirstpod@gmail.com: Herbie the Dinosaur E-bookSTNE Getting Connected Group FlyerSTNE Social Communication Group FlyerCCCABI ChecklistModel of Cognitive Communication Competence © 2025 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram. All rights reserved. This episode is protected by copyright. No part may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the copyright holders.

    42 min

  6. 10/10/2025

    Hope Is Foundational, with Vicki Gilman

    "Rehabilitation should blend with everyday life" In this episode of Listening First, hosts Patrick Boyd and Ben Marram engage in a deep conversation with Vicki Gilman, an expert in neuro rehabilitation and case management. They explore the complexities of rehabilitation, the importance of hope and empowerment for clients, and the role of technology in modern practices. Vicki shares her journey in the field, emphasizing the need for effective communication and trust within multidisciplinary teams. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of rehabilitation and the necessity of understanding individual needs and measuring progress for successful outcomes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Listening First Podcast 02:00 Vicki Gilman's Journey in Rehabilitation 07:28 Defining Rehabilitation: A Complex Perspective 14:07 The Role of Hope in Rehabilitation 17:48 Navigating Expectations and Outcomes in Rehabilitation 23:41 Nurturing Hope in Rehabilitation 25:28 Empowerment Through Choice and Control 27:10 Balancing Autonomy and Protection 30:53 The Role of Communication in MDTs 37:54 Technology's Impact on Rehabilitation Episode Credits: Patrick Boyd - Producer/co-host Dr Ben Marram - Producer/co-host Vicki Gilman - Guest

    46 min

  7. SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Introducing the Listening First Podcast

    The first episode of the Listening First podcast introduces the hosts, Patrick Boyd and Ben Marram, who share their backgrounds in rehabilitation and recovery. They discuss the purpose of the podcast, which is to create a platform for open conversations about various topics in rehabilitation, featuring insights from professionals and individuals with lived experiences. The hosts express their excitement for upcoming episodes and encourage audience engagement.

    21 min

Trailer

About

Listening First: The Podcast on Rehabilitation and Recovery Hosted by Patrick Boyd and Ben Marram, Listening First is a podcast dedicated to exploring the journey of rehabilitation and recovery. Taking a not-knowing position, Ben and Patrick approach each conversation with openness and curiosity, creating space for genuine dialogue and new perspectives. Each episode dives into the challenges, breakthroughs, and personal stories that shape the path back to health and independence. With a focus on empathy, expertise, and collaboration, Listening First brings listeners thoughtful conversations that inspire hope and highlight the human side of healing. Whether you’re a professional in healthcare, social care, law, someone on your own recovery journey, or simply curious about how people rebuild their lives, Listening First offers insight, support, and encouragement every step of the way.

Information

  • Creator
    Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram