How to listen
Access all the episodes below.
You can listen in many ways:
- Using the link listed under the episode, here on the website
- On the Spotify, Apple or Amazon podcast players
- Tune in via Youtube
Against the Tide Podcast
Listen to Against the Tide – the podcast where extraordinary
social changemakers share their stories and their wisdom.
Hosted by Jo Metcalfe and produced by Louise Kavanagh, this is a passion project designed by and for women working in the social justice space. More than a podcast, Against the Tide is a celebration of the courageous women who defy expectations to create lasting impact by daring to forge their own path.
We dive deep into powerful themes such as:
- the complexity of identity and how it influences the choices we make;
- embracing change even when it feels uncomfortable; and
- how breaking free from labels can unlock your true potential.
Scroll down to get every episode!
S2. Episode 1 Speaking Truth to Power
Bex Wilson is a Deputy Headteacher and the founder of Zarach, a charity committed to tackling child bed poverty. As a dedicated educator in a Leeds primary school, Bex saw firsthand how poverty affected children’s ability to learn. After a pupil confided that he didn’t have a bed to sleep in, Bex felt compelled to act.
Determined to make a difference, she launched Zarach to provide beds and essential resources to children living in poverty, ensuring they get the rest they need to thrive. Bex is a leading advocate for breaking the cycle of poverty, driven by her passion for education and social justice.
In this conversation with Jo, Bex shares her story, the values that inspire her, and the impact of Zarach’s mission. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her work, the importance of community support, and the power of a good night’s sleep.
Whether you’re passionate about education or seeking to make a difference in your community, Bex’s story will give you the courage to speak up and demand change for others. This conversation will leave you feeling ready to swim against the tide of society’s biggest challenges.
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Episode 6. Be Authentically YOU
Bindi Basan is a values-driven leader who excels at empowering others. She works with founders and CEOs to drive strategic growth, build high-performing teams, and achieve global expansion. But Bindi’s talents don’t stop at executive leadership.
When she’s not shaping global businesses, you can find her on the dance floor or lifting very heavy weights. She’s constantly pushing the limits of her body and mind. So, join us as we delve into Bindi’s rich heritage and explore how her background has shaped her personal and professional superpowers.
In this energising conversation, we explore the personal experiences behind Bindi’s professional success – and how the things that hold us back can become the source of our greatest strength.
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Episode 5. We Need to Talk About Culture
Caroline Leo is a communications strategist on a mission to transform workplace culture. After launching her own communications agency five years ago, she’s worked with brands from Hyatt Hotels to the charity Smart Works, helping them craft values-led stories and integrated campaigns.
In this episode, Caroline shares the findings of her recent report, which asks if culture is so critical to growth, why isn’t it given the same strategic focus as reputation, or products?
Tune in to learn more about Caroline’s insightful and practical 8-point guide to making workplace culture a priority.
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Episode 4. Meant for Something Better
Fozia Naseem is transforming personal trauma into a force for good. As a partnership manager at GiveBradford, she fosters a culture of giving and belonging in the city. Drawing from her own experiences of abuse and therapy, she has found strength in sport – empowering young women and girls through cycling to build confidence and challenge cultural norms.
In this important conversation, Fozia shares how a lifetime of swimming against the tide can create both personal and societal change.
Please be aware this episode references gender based violence and sexual abuse – it may be triggering for some listeners.
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Episode 3. Vulnerability Goes a Long Way
Dr. Jenn Gandhi, is a Chartered Psychologist and the lead for mental health and wellbeing at the Football Association and Dr. Jennifer Lace, also a Chartered Psychologist, focuses on performance psychology. Most recently, Dr Lace led on psychology for the Football League Managers Association.
Together, they are change-makers, inspiring and influencing the future of mental health and performance wellbeing in sports. Join us as we delve into their journeys, uncovering the surprising drivers behind their careers and discussing the challenges and opportunities of navigating a male-dominated environment.
This episode references eating disorders and may be triggering for some listeners.
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Episode 2. Your Difference is Your Power
Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung’s inspiring journey is a testament to how swimming against the tide can lead to both individual and collective change.
Abigail the 130th Lord Mayor and the first woman of African heritage to hold this prestigious position in Leeds, draws inspiration from her father and her faith. She is also an accomplished athlete and coach, a governor at Leeds City College, and a dedicated trustee for organisations like Age UK and Caring Together. Additionally, she serves as Co-Chair of the David Oluwale Memorial Association.
With a passionate commitment to people and a drive for inspiring change, Abigail uses her platform to make a lasting impact in her community. She is truly a force to admire.
Join us as we explore what it means to be a woman of colour in leadership and what motivates Abigail to champion those without a voice in her city. This is a powerful discussion you won’t want to miss, as we get to know one of Leeds’ remarkable leaders.
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Episode 1. Break the Mould!
In this episode, we’re joined by Isabelle Fielding, research and coaching psychologist, and Danielle Bodicoat, a statistician and social researcher.
Both embody a spirit of empowerment and together they tackle big challenges like homelessness and mental health in sport, blending innovation and evidence-based approaches to drive lasting change.
Known for their generosity in leadership and commitment to enabling others, Danielle and Isabelle don’t just challenge the status quo – they redefine it. In a refreshingly candid conversation, they open up about ‘imposter’ thoughts, balancing career with personal life, and how their backgrounds shape their perspectives.
Get ready for an inspiring discussion that promises to leave you motivated to swim against the tide!
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