The Social Matters Podcast
Episodes
Episode 14 (S8). Sitting With Uncertainty
15 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore the systemic concept of safe uncertainty, originally developed by Barry Mason, and ref...
Episode 13 (S8). Beyond the Pitch: Equality and Representation in Refereeing (feat. Arran Williams and Karan Rai).
01 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined by Arran Williams and Karan Rai from the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the organisation responsible for re...
Episode 12 (S8). The Statements Episode: Agree or Disagree?
15 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we open up a conversation around Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) by responding to a series of thought-provoking statements an...
Episode 11 (S8). Breaking Cycles of Domestic Abuse: Starting With the Baby (feat. Lauren Seager-Smith)
01 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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 t...
Episode 13 (S8). Beyond the Pitch: Equality and Representation in Refereeing (feat. Arran Williams and Karan Rai).
01 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined by Arran Williams and Karan Rai from the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), the organisation responsible for re...
Episode 10 (S8). Health Is Not Equal: Confronting Health Inequities
18 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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 outc...
Episode 9 (S8). Beyond Trauma: Supporting Lives Affected by Community Violence (feat. Dr. Ron Dodzro)
04 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Ron Dodzro, an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder and Director of Psychologists The Streets Deser...
Episode 8 (S8). Faith in Focus: Exploring Religion and Spirituality Today
21 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we explore religion and spirituality, a topic that continues to shape identities, values and the ...
Episode 7 (S8). The Kamelion app: Youth Mental Health, Reimagined (feat. Vivian Tanaka)
07 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined by the insightful Vivian Tanaka, creator of Kamelion, a gamified mental health and personal development app for 11–1...
Episode 6 (S8). Allyship in Action
23 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We have a new episode for you! In this conversation, we discuss allyship almost three years on from our first episode on the topic, a conversation tha...
Episode 5 (S8). What Does It Mean to Be British in the Current Climate?
09 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into an important and timely question: what does it mean to be British today? Against the backdrop of a rising far-right move...
BONUS EPISODE. The Next Chapter: Inside the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding
04 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, The Social Matters Podcast team takes you inside the launch of the Global Centre for Contextual Safeguarding, a two-day international...
Episode 4 (S8). Turning Experience into Empowerment. (feat. Jade Barnett)
26 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Jade Barnett, co-founder of Power2Prevail, an organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable young p...
Episode 3 (S8). Loneliness: A Quiet Conversation We Need to Have
12 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We’re back with a brand new episode of the Social Matters Podcast! Released just two days after World Mental Health Day, this conversation explores ...
Episode 2 (S8). From Hackney, With Love: The Human Cost of Gentrification. (feat Richard Yeboah)
28 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Richard Yeboah, author of From Hackney, With Love: An Intimate History of Gentrification.Richard grew...
Episode 1 (S8). Moments or Movements? Rethinking Social Change in EDI
14 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We’re back with the first episode of Season 8 of the Social Matters Podcast! To kick things off, we’re jump right into a conversation about the id...
Episode 18 (S7). The Quiet Power of Hope
08 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this final episode of the season, we reflect on the theme of hope: what it means to hold onto it, nurture it, and protect it, especially in times t...
Episode 17 (S7). Breaking Barriers in Women’s Football (feat. Kerry Davis)
25 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we’re honoured to be joined by a true trailblazer: Kerry Davis, the first Black woman to represent England at football.Kerry shares...
Episode 16 (S7). What No One Told Us About Menopause (feat. Dr. Elise Dallas)
11 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we have a powerful and much-needed conversation about menopause—what it is, what it isn’t, and the realities so many experience i...
Episode 15 (S7). Who Makes the Rules? The Fine Line Between Structure and Exclusion
27 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we have a conversation about the complicated world of rules and inclusion—how structures meant to create order can sometimes exclud...
Episode 14 (S7). Grief Isn't linear: Navigating Grief and Loss (feat: Imogen)
13 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we have an important and long-overdue conversation about grief and loss—our relationship with them, the support systems that carry ...
Episode 13 (S7). Navigating the Teenage Experience – Lessons from Netflix’s Adolescence
30 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive right into the Netflix series Adolescence—what it reveals about systemic issues in today’s world, the societal lessons it...
Episode 12 (S7). Multidirectional Solidarity in Uncertain Times
16 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we delve into multidirectional solidarity—what it means, why it’s essential, and how it can drive real change, especially in the ...
Episode 11 (S7). Unpacking Adultification (feat. Jahnine Davis)
02 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we sit down with Jahnine Davis to explore adultification—what it is, how it impacts children, specifically Black children, and why ...
Episode 10 (S7). Navigating Resistance—Understanding Reluctance & Overcoming Challenges
16 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk about working with reluctance and resistance—what it means, why it happens, and how to navigate it effectively. Whether it’...
Episode 9 (S7). How the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is Championing Diversity and Inclusion (feat. Louise Oliver)
02 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the crucial work of building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture with Louise Oliver, Equity, Diversity, and I...
Episode 8 (S7). Breaking the Age Barrier: Confronting Ageism in the Workplace
19 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked yet pervasive issue of ageism—the bias that can lead to stereotyping and discrimination based on ...
Episode 7 (S7). Anti-Racist Activism (feat. Lisa Zaranyika)
05 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
HAPPY NEW YEAR, PEOPLE!In this episode, we are delighted to be joined by the brilliant Lisa Zaranyika. Lisa is a Social Worker, Educator, Anti-Racist ...
Episode 6 (S7). Having Feedback Conversations
22 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we delve into the nuances of feedback conversations and their vital role in personal and professional growth. Feedback has the potent...
Episode 5 (S7). Disability and Accessibility in the Workplace (feat. Amy Butterworth)
08 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
🌟 WOW, WOW, and WOW! This is an episode you cannot miss.We had the incredible privilege of sitting down with Amy Butterworth, an Accessibility and ...
Episode 4 (S7). The Power of Language
24 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore how language shapes our thinking and influences the contexts we live in. Words have the power to foster inclusion, build b...
Episode 3 (S7). Imposter Syndrome
10 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into the all-too-relatable experience of Imposter Syndrome—the fear that others will eventually uncover your perceived weak...
Episode 2 (S7). Race, Resilience, and Responsibility in Leading Change (feat. Ben Lindsay OBE).
27 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the incredibly inspiring Ben Lindsay OBE. As the CEO of the award-winning charity Power the Figh...
Episode 1 (S7). Creating Inclusive Environments
13 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Season 7 of the Social Matters Podcast! After a refreshing summer break, we're back just in time for winter, ready to bring you insigh...
Episode 17 (S6). Introducing Difference
26 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
FINAL EPISODE OF THE SEASON!!!!! We've come to the end of another road. Our 6th season goes out with a bang! In this episode, your favourite tri...
Episode 16 (S6). The Half Of It: Exploring the Mixed-Race Experience (ft Emma Slade Edmondson)
12 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, your favourite trio of social workers are joined by the brilliant Emma Slade Edmondson. Emma is the co-author of a brand new book &ap...
Episode 15 (S6). Reframing Perspectives on Youth Violence (feat. Luke Billingham)
28 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode is an absolute banger!Your favourite trio of social workers were join by the brilliant Luke Billingham. Luke is a Youth and Community wor...
Episode 14 (S6). What is Organisational Trauma?
14 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Your favourite trio of social workers are back for their 14th instalment of the season!In this episode, we explore what is meant by Organisational Tra...
Episode 13 (S6). A Look Back At Some Pure Vibes & Laughter
31 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The clocks just went forward by an hour, the days are longer and brighter so we thought it will be a good moment to look back at some of our favourite...
Episode 12 (S6). Let's Talk About International Women's Day
17 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode your favourite trio have a conversation International Women's Day and Women's History Month. From celebrating the contributi...
Episode 11 (S6).Uplifting & Enriching Approaches to Youth Engagement (ft. Amani Simpson)
03 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
THIS IS A MUST LISTEN EPISODE!We were extremely lucky to be joined by the brilliant Amani Simpson for this informative, moving and powerful episode. ...
Episode 10 (S6). Inclusive Leadership (feat. Has Khair)
18 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This was a fun one!In this episode, we were joined by a 'Badass' CEO, Executive Coach and friend of the podcast Hasan Khair. Hasan shares h...
Episode 9 (S6). Let's Talk About Professionalism in the Workplace
04 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode your favourite trio have a conversation about the notion of Professionalism. What does it mean to be Professional? What are the benefi...
Episode 8 (S6). What is Unconscious Bias?
21 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Your favourite trio of social workers are back with another insightful episode discussing what their understanding is of Unconscious Bias. This is a t...
Episode 7 (S6). Addressing Violence & Conflict with Young People (ft. Craig Pinkney)
07 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Informative, powerful, inspirational, fun and an important listen! Just some of the words we’d use to describe this episode.Nadia, Fran and Eugene w...
Episode 6 (S6). The Social Graces Revisited/Christmas Special
24 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Merry Christmas everyone!We have a fun and informative new episode for you. In this episode, we have our own little christmas celebration and have a d...
Episode 5 (S6). The 'Illegal' Migration Act (feat. Lisa Matthews)
10 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This episode was recorded in November 2023 It was our pleasure to welcome Lisa Matthews to our podcast. Lisa works for an organisation called You...
Episode 4 (S6). Starting a Conversation About Gaza.
26 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Conversations a meant to be started, continued but not necessarily always finished. In this episode, we decided to start a conversation about the war...
Episode 3 (S6). Talking about Harmful Sexual Behaviour (feat. Anna Glinski)
12 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We were lucky to be joined by Anna Glinski from the Centre of expertise on child sexual abuse (CSA centre).Anna was previously the CSA Centre's P...
Episode 2 (S6). How Can We Feel Psychologically Safe?
29 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The episodes keep on coming! In this second episode of season six, we explore the notion of Psychological Safety. What does this mean to you? How c...
Episode 1 (S6). What does Belonging mean to you?
15 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
GUESS WHO'S BACK, BACK AGAIN.....YES, that's right. After an extended summer break, your favourite trio are back for a brand new season! We ...
Episode 17 (S5). End of Season Reflections and Chat :)
21 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's that timmmeeee. After 8 months of fun and informative conversations about social issues, Nadia, Fran and Eugene sign off another season!In t...
Episode 16 (S5). Organisational Culture in Social Work
07 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this penultimate episode of the season Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a conversation about organisational culture in social work. What does this actua...
Episode 15 (S5). Made by Mortals: Bringing People's Experiences to Life.
23 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Made by Mortals are a arts organisation who work with a diverse range of communities and organisations to bring people's experiences to life thro...
Episode 14 (S5). The Illegal Immigration Bill Aftermath
09 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Happy Easter to all those who are celebrating! We have another episode for you to listen to over your Easter meal : )In March 2023, the UK Government ...
Episode 13 (S5). World Social Work Day Episode
26 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For those of you who may not be aware, it is World Social Work Day on the third Tuesday of March (21st March 2023). This annual celebration is the way...
Episode 12 (S5). For Black Boys... (feat. Sarah Jordan Verghese & Jasmyn Fisher-Ryner)
12 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this brilliant episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by the brilliant Sarah Jordan Verghese and Jasmyn Fisher-Ryner. Sarah and Jasmyn are Pr...
Episode 11 (S5). Allyship.
26 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What does it mean to truly be an Ally? In a world where more and more minoritised groups are experiencing oppression, discrimination, abuse and viole...
Episode 10 (S5). LGBT History Month
12 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's the month of February! This means, in the UK, we celebrate LGBT History Month. In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene share their reflecti...
Episode 9 (S5). A New Idea of Resilience (feat. Josh Connolly)
29 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What does resilience mean to you? It's time to reframe the dominate narratives of resilience that we have in society. In this brilliantly powerf...
Episode 8 (S5). Journey of an Anti-Racist Social Worker. (feat. Shantel Thomas)
15 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Season 5 is in full swing people. Welcome to episode 8!In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by the brilliant Shantel Thomas. Shantel is ...
Episode 7 (S5). New Year, New Focus?
01 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Happy New Year people! Â This is the first Social Matters episode of the new year so, in Social Matters tradition, Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a conve...
Episode 6 (S5). A Conversation about Class (feat. Sereena Abbassi)
18 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
A conversation about class is long overdue on the Social Matters Podcast so your favourite trio of social workers were really excited about this one!I...
Episode 5 (S5). The Impact of Childhood Sexual Violence (feat. Patrick Sandford)
04 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this brilliant, insightful and powerful episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by Patrick Sandford. Patrick is an activist and survivor of chil...
Episode 4 (S5). Trafficking: A Reflection on Mo Farah's Documentary.
20 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
SPOILER ALERT!!!!!!!In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a reflective conversation about 'The real Mo Farah' a BBC documentary about...
Episode 3 (S5). The Impact of Food Banks (feat. John and Amy from the Trussell Trust)
06 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
With the autumn here and winter approaching, the cost of living crisis is impacting on everyone in different ways. To feed your family, yourself and h...
Episode 2 (S5). Virtual Reality (VR) in Social Work (feat. Shalene Lemmie)
23 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When we hear about Virtual Reality (VR), we picture the year 3000 where not much has changed but they live under water! However, virtual reality is he...
Episode 1 (S5). What is Happening in Our Society?
09 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
As the leaves begin to fall and the autumn sets in, what you have all been craving is upon us. A brand new season of The Social Matters Podcast is bac...
Episode 18 (S4). Review and Reflections (season finale!!!!)
29 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
After 7 months and 18 episodes it's a wrap for another season. Your favourite trio of social workers are here to review and reflect on the past s...
Episode 17 (S4). Autism and Social Work (feat. Jenni McCabe)
15 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this penultimate episode of the season Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by Jenni McCabe to have a conversation about Autism and Social Work.Jenni ...
Episode 16 (S4). Intersectionality For Social Workers (feat. Professor Claudia Bernard)
01 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by Professor Claudia Bernard to have a conversation about her exciting new book titled 'Interse...
Episode 15 (S4). Reflections on 'Child Q'.
17 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene sit down to reflect on the case of 'Child Q'. 'Child Q' was 15 years old when she was su...
Episode 14 (S4). Everyday Activism (feat. Kajal Odedra)
03 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined on the podcast by Kajal Odedra. Kajal is an Author, Activist and Global Communications Director at C...
Episode 13 (S4). Inspirational Women
20 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
This one was fun! Recorded on International Women's Day, in this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a discussion about some of the women who ...
Episode 12 (S4). Working with Sexual Abuse (feat. Lydia Guthrie).
06 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Content warning.In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene speak with Lydia Guthrie about her experience of working with sexual abuse. Like with all Socia...
Episode 11 (S4). Siblings and Foster Care
20 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a discussion about a recent BBC documentary presented by reporter Ashley-John Baptiste. Titled Split Up in...
Episode 10 (S4). Approaches to Safeguarding Young People. (feat. Professor Carlene Firmin MBE and Ben Lindsay)
06 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
WOW!!! This is an episode full of knowledge, humour, anecdotes, leather jackets and world domination.In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined...
Episode 9 (S4). The Role of Happiness
23 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Whether in personal life or professional life, Happiness plays a role. But a different role for different people.In this episode Nadia, Fran and Eugen...
Episode 8 (S4). New Year, New Me?
09 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Happy New Year people! This is the first Social Matters episode of the new year so Nadia, Fran and Eugene decided to have a conversation about aims a...
Episode 7 (S4). What Social Work means to us. (Christmas special!!!)
26 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Merry Christmas people! In this Christmas special episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a conversation about what social work means to them. They shar...
Episode 6 (S4). Reflections on the death of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes
12 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A few days after the news broke of the murder of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes, Nadia, Fran and Eugene reflect on the tragic death of Arthur and the significa...
Episode 5 (S4). Responses to Depression
28 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Season four continues to bring you new and interesting conversations from your favourite trio.In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a conversat...
Episode 4 (S4). What is the Workforce Race Equality Standard in social care? (feat. Nimal Jude)
14 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Here's another exciting and informative episode for you!In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by the terrific Nimal Jude for a conve...
Episode 3 (S4). Queer Theory in Social Work (feat. Jemma Healey)
31 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Here we go! We have our first guest of the season :)Â In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene are joined by social worker/family therapist, Jemma Heal...
Episode 2 (S4). Let's talk about Refugees and Asylum-Seekers
17 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Season four continues to bring you new and interesting conversations from your favourite trio.In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene have a conversat...
Episode 1 (S4). A Summer of Social Issues
03 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
They're baaaccccckkkkkk! It's what you've all been waiting for. After a summer hiatus, your favourite trio of social workers are bac...
Episode 19 (S3). End of season thoughts and reflections.
27 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Your favourite trio of social workers are back with the final episode of the season. In this episode, Nadia, Fran and Eugene look back on their third ...
Episode 18 (S3). Education and young people (feat. Manny Awoyelu). Season finale Part 1
13 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Your favourite trio of social workers are back with another episode. In this episode, the first of a 2-part finale, Nadia, Fran and Eugene are join by...
Episode 17 (S3). A year since George Floyd's murder.
30 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 16 (S3). Anti-Oppressive Practice
16 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 15 (S3). Misogyny
02 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 14 (S3). The Race report and institutional racism
18 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 13 (S3). Using Motivational Interviewing in social work (feat. Charlie Whittaker)
04 Apr 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. IT'S OUR 50TH EPISODE!!...
Episode 12 (S3). What are Microaggressions?
14 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 11 (S3). Anti-Racism in social work (feat. Wayne Reid)
28 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 10 (S3). A post-Trump world.
14 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 9 (S3). Books and articles that have influenced our social work
31 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favourite trio of socia...
Episode 8 (S3). The Catch Up conversation
17 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. 'Catch Up'Â talk to...
Episode 7 (S3). New Year, New Hope?
03 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room via Zoom. Your favour...
Episode 6 (S3). Uncertain times
20 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social/social work issues from their front room (and over Zoom at times). Your favouri...