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 that feel unjust.

We’re living in a world where discrimination and division remain ever present, and the noise of those who want to divide can often feel loud. But amidst it all, hope persists, not as blind optimism but as a deliberate, powerful act of resistance. In this conversation, we explore how hope shows up in our work, our communities, and ourselves.

What does it mean to stay hopeful when the headlines say otherwise? How can we hold space for loss and anger while still believing in the possibility of change? We talk about the role of hope in social justice, the quiet power of small actions, and the importance of imagination in building a better future.

As we take a short break before returning in the autumn, we leave you with this episode as a reminder: hope is not naive. It is necessary.

Tune in, share, and join the conversation.
📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast
💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters
🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

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 her incredible journey through the game, from her early days breaking barriers to representing her country on the international stage. With honesty and humility, she reflects on the challenges she faced as a Black woman in women's football, the progress made since then, and the work that’s still left to do.

We talk about identity, representation, and the fight for equity in football. Kerry’s insights offer a deep, personal perspective on resilience, legacy, and what it means to lead by example in spaces where you’ve had to carve your own path.

This conversation isn’t just about football—it’s about visibility, voice, and valuing those who came before. It’s a reminder that history-making often starts with someone's determination and simply refusing to sit on the sidelines.

Tune in, share, and join the conversation.

📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast
💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters
🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk

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 in silence.

We’re joined by Dr. Elise Dallas, who brings her professional expertise to the discussion. She helps us unpack the physical, emotional, and social impact of menopause, while also challenging the stigma and misinformation that too often surround it. From hormonal changes and mental health to workplace support and personal relationships, Dr. Dallas offers insights that are both grounding and empowering.

Menopause impacts in a multitude of different ways, but one thing is clear: it deserves more understanding, more visibility, and more open dialogue. Together, we explore how to create space for honest conversations and how to support ourselves—and each other—through this transition.

Tune in, share, and join the conversation.

If you want to find out more about Dr. Dallas’s work then you can follow her at @drelisedallas.

📲 Instagram: @matterspodcast
💼 LinkedIn: Social Matters
🌍 Website: socialmatters.org.uk