Here's Hoping with Jayda G

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Relationship Anarchy & Dope Parenting with Marvyn Harrison

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 09:30:36 GMT

Jayda and Marvyn sit down to explore themes of parenting, masculinity, protection and relationship anarchy. Marvyn shares his journey from a traditional advertising career to pioneering a platform that challenges generational narratives about black fatherhood. He opens up about the personal struggles of being a dad, the life-changing impact of therapy, and why emotional and psychological safety must be at the heart of all relationships. He talks about how he allows his core values to be his guides as a father and also introduces the concept of relationship anarchy and co-creating the most supportive environment for his children. Marvyn reflects on how inner work helps men build more honest, sustainable partnerships and what that work needs to look like. He also shares his unique co-parenting journey, centring his children’s well-being while nurturing a respectful bond with their mother, and why men must create space for emotional regulation to show up fully as fathers. This episode offers profound, vulnerable insights on dismantling patriarchy, reimagining family dynamics, and prioritizing self-care as a vital act of love.

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Dope Black Dads

Dope Black Dads Podcast

Marvyn Harrison is a visionary leader known for driving business goals and cultural change through strategy, communication, and people development. He is the founder of Dope Black Dads and Dope Black Men, platforms amplifying Black voices across the UK, US, and Africa. Through his consultancy BELOVD, he has led impactful work with clients like WPP, Footlocker, and News UK. A regular media contributor and author of two children's books with Pan Macmillan, Marvyn is passionate about leadership, equity, and transformation. His upcoming book supports men through personal growth in challenging times.

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Valuing Your Voice with Aluna (ARCHIVE EPISODE)

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:15:46 GMT

Award winning musician and vocalist ALUNA shares with Jayda how she found the courage to pursue singing and how she’s learnt to surround herself with the kind of people that invest in, rather than drain, her energy. Jayda and Aluna share their experiences of being Black women in dance music and how the genre has the capacity to give anyone hope when they need it.

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MYCELiUM By Aluna

Aluna is an award-winning dance music artist, a multi-hyphenate talent, she is a singer, writer, producer, and DJ. Aluna rose to prominence as half of the multi-platinum duo AlunaGeorge, but in 2020 released her first solo album, Renaissance, followe by her second solo album Mycellium last year in 2023 to critical acclaim. Aluna has also worked extensively behind the scenes with the Grammys advising on making music awards more inclusive and diverse. As an artist she advocates for dance music recognising and recentering black artists and black dance music pioneers.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Gina Martin

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing gender equality activist, writer, facilitator and speaker, Gina Martin - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Gina Martin

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Loving Men, Gender Activism & Despair Beside Hope with Gina Martin

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this powerful episode, Gina shares with Jayda how her campaign to criminalize upskirting in the UK launched her into activism. She reflects on how working within the legal system changed her understanding of impact, leading her to shift from a prosecution-based approach to one rooted in community and prevention. Gina speaks openly about why community work gives her hope and offers thoughtful advice on turning despair into action, while recognizing despair as a natural response to today’s world. She also explores the emotional complexity of being both a survivor of male violence and someone who holds deep, loving relationships with men. A must-listen for anyone passionate about gender justice, community impact, and navigating the tension between anger at systemic harm and a desire for healing and connection.

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Gina Martin Website

Gina Martin books

Gina Martin is a multi-award winning gender equality activist, writer, facilitator and speaker who runs workshops on gender for Tomorrow Woman in schools. She is most well known for making upskirting a specific sexual offence in England and Wales (three countries have since followed suit) and changing discriminatory instagram policy. She has an online following of over 250,000+ across platforms where she shares educational content on misogyny, gender and patriarchy and has written three books.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Anna Lunoe

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with DJ, producer, vocalist, and radio host, Anna Lunoe - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Anna Lunoe

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Pregnancy Visibility & Hustling in Dance Music with Anna Lunoe

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Anna Lunoe shares how becoming a mother transformed her life, her career, and her creative process. She speaks candidly about the challenges of performing while pregnant, the uncertainty she felt, the anxiety of being in clubs whilst pregnant, and the unexpected strength she found in both herself and the support of the dance music community. Anna discusses the realities of raising young children while touring, producing music, and hosting radio shows. She offers an intimate look at how motherhood has deepened her perspective, sharpened her focus, and reshaped her sense of purpose. As she reflects on the making of her new album Pearl, Anna explains how parenting taught her to work with more intention, let go of perfection, and say no to what no longer serves her. This conversation is a powerful reminder that motherhood and ambition can coexist and that growth in one area of life can fuel transformation in another.

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Listen to Pearl by Anna Lunoe

Anna Lunoe is a DJ, producer, vocalist, and radio host known for her genre-blending sound and magnetic energy behind the decks. Hailing from Sydney, she broke into the international scene with a unique blend of house, techno, and bass, quickly earning spots at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza. As the host of Apple Music’s DanceXL, she champions emerging artists while continuing to release boundary-pushing music of her own. A trailblazer both on and off stage, Anna is also a mother, balancing her creative pursuits with family life and inspiring fans with her authenticity, resilience, and dedication to her craft.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Benjy Kusi

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing Queer, British-Ghanaian inclusion and wellbeing consultant, Benjy Kusi - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Benjy Kusi

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Shame to Pride and Becoming a Kinder Person with Benjy Kusi

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 16:23:26 GMT

In this episode which as joyful and entertaining as it is thought provoking. Benji shares insights into his British-Ghanaian heritage, his journey of self-acceptance as a queer individual, and how the tension between his different identities led him to challenge the status quo. Jayda and Benjy discuss the debilitating effects of shame and how overcoming it can lead to living one's best life. Benjy shares the journey of writing his debut book 'Hope This Helps’ and his core message of differentiating between the difference of kindness over niceness, how to sit with the discomfort of acknowledging one’s biases and privileges, and he also shares practical steps to foster hope, for you individually and in community.

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Hope This Helps by Benjy Kusi

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Benjy Kusi is a Queer, British-Ghanaian inclusion and wellbeing consultant, based in London. He helps organisations and individuals across the UK and the world create spaces where everyone can thrive and be their best selves. He's also built a community of 240,000+ people on social media, where he produces helpful educational content on topics such as anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and self-care. Additionally, Benjy is the author of "Hope this Helps: How to be Kinder to Yourself and Others" a practical guide to the practice of self-care, empathy, and conscious inclusion that was published in February 2023. His overall mission is to equip and empower people to make a positive difference - in their lives, and the lives of others.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Nova Reid

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with award-winning speaker, writer, and producer, Nova Reid - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Nova Reid

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Healing Shame & Good Allyship with Nova Reid

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:36:57 GMT

In this episode Nova and Jayda dive into the emotional complexities of shame, racism, healing, and hope. Nova shares how her early experiences with racism in the UK combined with her role in mental health to manifest in her significant work within racial justice. The conversation explores the importance of seeing activists as whole people, the emotional toll of this work, and the role of self care in sustaining change. Nova reflects on writing her bestselling book The Good Ally and shares the impact of her anti racism courses, offering stories of transformation that inspire hope. She unpacks how shame, often hidden beneath behaviors like passive aggression, addiction, or burnout, can block connection and offers ways to work through it with compassion. She also introduces Hidden Histories, her podcast honoring overlooked Black British women whose legacies deserve to be known. This is a heartfelt and insightful episode about resilience, connection, and the power of healing as a foundation for lasting allyship.

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Hidden Histories with Nova Reid

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The Good Ally by Nova Reid

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Nova Reid is an award-winning speaker, writer, and producer known for her transformative work on anti racism and healing. A TED speaker and author of the bestselling book The Good Ally, she blends her mental health background with activism to drive meaningful change. Nova has written for major publications, worked with global organisations, and created Hidden Histories with Nova Reid, amplifying untold stories of Black British women through courageous conversation.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Matthew Briggs

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the former premier league player to now life coach and mentor to young Fulham FC academy players, Matthew Briggs - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Matthew Briggs

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Premiere League to Rock Bottom to Mentoring with Matthew Briggs

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Jayda sits down with former professional footballer Matthew Briggs, famously known as the youngest ever Premier League player. Matthew reveals both the extraordinary highs and crushing lows of his career, including injuries, struggles with alcoholism, and mental health battles. He shares his journey from early success to hitting rock bottom, attempting suicide and finding himself working on a construction site. To how he lifted himself out of these depths, how he had the strength to ask for support, reconnect with the simple joy of playing and he found his way back to his sense of self through mentorship and mental health advocacy. Matthew offers an unfiltered look into the world of elite sports, the pressures athletes face, and the importance of mental resilience. Listen to his story of rebuilding his identity, finding new passions, and helping the next generation of footballers navigate their own challenges. Matthew's honest narrative about vulnerability and the power of talking openly about one's struggles makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, mental health, and personal redemption.

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Matthew Briggs is a former professional footballer, who made history as the youngest-ever Premier League player when he debuted for Fulham at just 16 years old. However, he went for being speculated as a future England captain to being benched, battling career altering injuries, and spiralling into depression and alcoholism. Matthew went through an unbelievable journey of self, training as a life coach and now mentors young players at Fulham FC’s academy and is a public advocate for mental health in sports.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jocelyn Longdon

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the award-winning environmental justice technologist, Author, Speaker and Educator, Jocelyn Longdon - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Jocelyn Longdon

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Discipline of Hope & Environmental Justice with Jocelyn Longdon

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode Jayda and Jocelyn explore the intricate intersections of climate science, social justice, and technology, with Jocelyn offering really interesting perspectives on finding hope for the climate. Joycelyn shares her journey from an unconventional background in astrophysics and journalism to her groundbreaking work in conservation technology. Delving into her platform, Climate in Colour, and her PhD research in bioacoustics, Joycelyn discusses the importance of centring indigenous knowledge and addressing environmental racism. She also unpacks how our perceptions of success are deeply impacted by colonialism and the need to shift towards more inclusive, just frameworks. This episode tackles the nuanced concept of hope within the climate movement, emphasising that hope is a discipline involving stamina and long-term commitment rather than immediate wins. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that offers new perspectives on building a just and hopeful future through community and innovation.

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Jocelyn Longdon's website

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Joycelyn is an award-winning environmental justice technologist, communicator, and PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge. She researches conservation tech with forest communities in Ghana, using bioacoustics—like Shazam for nature.

She founded Climate in Colour, an inclusive climate education platform, and has worked with the UN, Channel 4, and the Wellcome Collection. A TEDx speaker, she won the 2022 Emerging Designer Medal at the London Design Festival, was featured in British Vogue’s ‘Forces for Change’ issue, and named a 2024 Climate Creator to Watch. Her debut book, Natural Connection, What Indigenous Wisdom and Marginalised People Teach Us About Environmental Action, was published in April 2025.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jamz Supernova

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the trailblaizing DJ, Radio host, label head, podcaster and tastemaker, Jamz Supernova - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Jamz Supernova

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Reprioritising Your Body and Time as a Mother with Jamz Supernova

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

This episode explores Jamz's journey in the music industry, her growth as a DJ, and the balance of being a working mother. She shares with Jayda why she’s pausing new releases on her label amid industry changes, and how she uses those moments to pause, learn, and regrow. They discuss the rising impact of live music and why it gives Jayda hope. Jamz also opens up about routines that keep her grounded—like running, working out, and therapy. She offers insights on staying true to yourself, adapting to industry shifts, and the power of travel and cultural immersion in her radio work. Packed with lessons on success, self-care, and embracing evolving roles, this is a must-listen for anyone balancing a career with growth and parenthood.

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Follow Future Bounce

Listen BBC Radio 6 show

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Jamz Supernova is a trailblazing DJ, radio host, label head, podcaster, and tastemaker. For over a decade, her genre-blending selections have broadcast across BBC Radio 1Xtra and BBC 6 Music—where her Saturday show earned Radio Programme of the Year at the 2022 Broadcasting Press Guild Awards and the Gold Best Specialist Music Show at the 2021 ARIAS. She runs Future Bounce, a forward-thinking label that earned a DJ Mag Best of British nomination in 2023, and brings high-energy sets to top festivals like We Out Here, Worldwide Sete, and All Points East. Beyond music, Jamz has hosted podcasts (DIY Handbook, Between The Lines), BBC TV shows, and major events like the Mercury Prize. Whether behind the decks or the mic, she stays rooted in authenticity, using her platform to elevate new voices and connect deeply with her audience.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Kusheda Mensah

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing British-Ghanaian furniture designer, Kusheda Mensah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Kusheda Mensah

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Premature Birth & Sharing Space with Kusheda Mensah

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this moving episode, Kusheda shares her experience of having a premature birth with her first son and what supported her and gave her hope whilst her baby was in intensive care for the first weeks of his life. Jayda and Kusheda also talk about what it’s like being working creative mums and the importance of investing in yourself, whilst also appreciating how becoming mothers has expanded their work and purpose on a deeper level. Kusheda shares with Jayda what drew her to designing furniture and how countering loneliness and isolation is a big motivation for her, as well as drawing on her favourite childhood memories of gathering. Jayda learns from Kusheda the big financial risks she took at the start of her career and why for Kusheda, taking chances on, and investing in, your visions and dreams encompasses hope for her.

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Modular by Mensah

Kusheda Mensah is a British-Ghanaian furniture designer dedicated to the ongoing exploration of idyllic, functional, and playful living environments. Mushers creates pieces that serve as physical remedies for the disconnection often felt in modern society. Through interlocking, modular furniture, her designs celebrate mutuality, human connection, and closeness—both reflecting and drawing inspiration from the human form.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jeremiah Asiamah

Fri, 30 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing DJ & Radio presenter Jeremiah Asiamah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Jeremiah Asiamah

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Salvation in Radio & Proving Haters Wrong with Jeremiah Asiamah

Wed, 28 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Jeremiah opens up about his incredible journey—from being told he'd never amount to anything to becoming a respected figure in the music world. Along the way, he shares how radio became a lifeline during a time of intense isolation, his near loss of a brother, and the profound role his faith has played throughout his life. Jeremiah reflects on his early years, the influence of his family, and how music—alongside the unwavering support of his church—helped him rise above bullying and self-doubt to become a Radio 1 primetime DJ. With remarkable honesty and generosity, he offers stories that not only inspire, but remind us of the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. This episode is a testament to how finding something you love can not only lift you from despair, but also become a beacon of hope for others.

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Follow We Are Friends

Listen Radio 1's Soundsystem Party

DJ and radio presenter Jeremiah Asiamah, is known for his vibrant, carnival-inspired shows on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra. From local clubs to global stages like Glastonbury, Wireless, and Notting Hill Carnival, Jeremiah’s talent for getting people dancing has taken him far. In 2023, he made history as the first DJ to perform at the FA Cup Final. He also runs WE ARE FRIENDS, a music event series focused on community and diversity, and supports young talent through his initiative, The Journey.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ollie Olanipekun

Fri, 23 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible creative director and founder of creative agency, and Flock Together, Ollie Olanipekun - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Ollie Olanipekun

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Bird Watching, Flock Together, Accessible Nature for POC with Ollie Olanipekun

Wed, 21 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this joyful episode of Here's Hoping, Jayda sits down with Ollie Olanipekun to discuss what led him to founding the POC birdwatching collective Flock Together. They delve into how Flock Together addresses the underrepresentation of diverse communities in nature and the ways in which connecting to the outdoors can transform lives. Ollie shares his personal journey from a high-paced career in advertising to founding a community that inspires people of color to embrace birdwatching, with recognition of the power of nature in fostering patience, better mental health, and a deeper connection with the world around us. Ollie shares some beautiful stories of how the community has impacted members and Jayda also learns about the philosophy behind New Nature, Ollie’s initiative to merge culture and nature, and how you too can find hope and transformation through the natural world. This episode is filled with heartfelt testimonies, reflections on the magic of communal nature experiences, and a call to reimagine our relationship with the outdoors.

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Flock Together World

Open Area

Ollie Olanipekun is a creative director and founder of award-winning creative agency Superimpose / Futurimpose, as well as the co-founder of Flock Together, the UK's first birdwatching collective for people of colour. Flock Together is all about creating a supportive and inclusive space for Black, Brown, and people of colour to connect with the outdoors, and exemplifies his work to address the underrepresentation of communities in nature, alongside his next venture New Nature, an open-source concept that challenges traditional perceptions of nature and culture. Through his platforms, Ollie calls for a more inclusive, balanced relationship with the environment, encouraging people from all walks of life to find their unique, personal connection to the natural world.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Nat Lue

Fri, 16 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible writer and podcaster, Natalie Lue - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Natalie Lue

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Recovering from People Pleasing & Unavailability with Nat Lue

Wed, 14 May 2025 08:55:07 GMT

Speaking to relationship coach OG, Nat Lue, Jayda hears about Nat’s own personal journey of overcoming emotionally unavailable relationships, and how everything changed when Nat realised she was part of the problem and the pattern! Nat also shares her insights on what makes people compatible in relationships and the significance of core values in relationships and how to spot them. Nat also talks to the interplay of anxiety and people-pleasing, and why setting boudnaries and doing personal work can give you the strength and hope to break out of unfulfilling dating patterns. Natalie offers practical advice and deeply personal insights that can help us feel inspired and hopeful when it comes to dating and relating to oneself.

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The Baggage Reclaim Sessions Podcast

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The Baggage Reclaim

Writer and podcaster, Nat Lue is the acclaimed the creator of Baggage Reclaim, a platform and podcast that has empowered over 300,000 people to reclaim their self-worth, set healthy boundaries, and embrace the power of saying ‘no.’ The Baggage Reclaim Podcast platforms Nat’s brand of straight talking and personally-informed advice on self-love, relationships, and personal growth; how break free from emotional baggage and build healthier connections with themselves and others. Nat is also the author of bestsellers like The Baggage Reclaim Guide to Self-Love and The Art of Saying No.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Kelechi Okafor

Fri, 09 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible actress, writer, activist, pole dancer and teacher, Kelechi Okafor - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Kelechi Okafor

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Reclaiming Strength & Political Resistance with Kelechi Okafor

Wed, 07 May 2025 10:03:37 GMT

Kelechi discusses her multifaceted career and how she balances her diverse passions, by appreciating that interests have different seasons, and how through human design she has learnt to appreciate she has different sources of energy for different things. Jayda and Kelechi discuss how they both find power in their authenticity, the power of pole dancing and physical strength and their relationship with strength as black women. Kelechi also sheds light on her upcoming novel, ‘Awakened,’ which explores the mysterious disappearances of young black British people and the complexities of AI in politics and how she uses writing to give a voice to important issues, as well as why she wrote the children’s book ‘Strong Like Me’, and how supporting children to love themselves connects to hope for her and the collective reimagining of our societal norms. Emphasising why we are getting closer to saying enough to social changes and why we need stop adapting.

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Awakened by Kelechi Okafor

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Kelechi Okafor is an actress, writer, activist, pole dancer and teacher, and the voice behind the Say Your Mind podcast, where she dives into topics like mental health, social justice, and pop culture. She’s also the author of Edge of Reason, a collection of essays that explores identity and personal growth and is about to release her debut novel, Awakened. Kelechi has been featured on countless news channels to share her important view on politics, race, female empowerment, and movement, she is truly one of the most powerful voices online and in our ears today.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ziya Tong

Fri, 02 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible award-winning broadcaster, journalist, and environmental advocate Ziya Tong - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Ziya Tong - Plastic People Doc

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Turning Climate Despair into Joyful Resistance with Ziya Tong

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Here's Hoping, host Jada G. sits down with award-winning broadcaster, journalist, and environmental advocate Ziya Tong to explore the intersection of hope, science, and environmental activism. They trace Ziya’s journey from discovering a love for nature through David Attenborough documentaries to becoming a leading voice in climate science. The conversation spotlights her film Plastic People, which investigates the microplastics crisis, and her bestselling book The Reality Bubble, which reveals our environmental blind spots. Ziya shares inspiring stories—from meeting Jane Goodall to swimming with belugas—and offers thoughtful reflections on turning despair into action, using beauty to fuel resistance, and the power of community in driving change. Listen for an uplifting and urgent conversation on joyful resistance, collective action, and finding real hope in the face of environmental crisis.

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Ziya Tong is an award-winning broadcaster best known for hosting Daily Planet on Discovery Channel. Her bestselling book The Reality Bubble was shortlisted for the RBC Taylor Prize and won the Lane Anderson Prize for science writing. She has also hosted shows on CBC and PBS, including ZeD, Wired Science, and NOVA scienceNOW with Neil deGrasse Tyson. Her latest documentary, Plastic People, premiered at SXSW, earning critical acclaim from The New York Times and Variety, which called it one of the best documentaries of 2024.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Denai Moore

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible Jamaican born music Artist and Chef, Denai Moore - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Denai Moore

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Recipes for Life and Being Genre-Free with Denai Moore

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:30:08 GMT

Jamaican-British music artist and food writer, Denai Moore shares with Jayda how she balances her dual passions for music and food, as well as how her Jamaican roots shape her culinary creations and inspire hope and confidence in her music career. Denai discusses the creative processes behind her latest vegan Jamaican cookbook, Plentiful, and the shared emotional and spiritual experiences of songwriting and recipe creation. Jayda and Denai delve into creating community, exploring a nuanced cultural identity, and Denai’s reflections on how to start something new and take risks like a business by being attuned to and trusting your instincts. Denai also discusses embracing vulnerability, the importance of physical gatherings like supper clubs in a digital age, and the value of pursuing creative endeavors despite the risk of failure. This episode celebrates the beauty of intuitive creation, the joy of collaboration, and the profound impact of reconnecting with one's roots.

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Denai Moore is the genre free Jamaican born music artists and chef. Denai first burst onto the I music scene in collaboration with SBTRKT and has gone of to release her own critically acclaimed music drawing critical acclaim from The Guardian, The FADER, Vice, gal-dem and more, her solo work to date has cemented her as one of the UK’s brightest indie voices. In 2020 Denai released her third album titled ‘Modern Dread’, which touches on the unnerving nature of the current climate politically and emotionally. Denai is also a plant based chef and author of her Jamaican inspired vegan cookbook Plentiful and founder of the UK’s first vegan patty shop flaky.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Talia Koren

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible dating podcaster, content creator, and entrepreneur, Talia Koren - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Talia Koren

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Dating Intentionally, Identifying Core Values & Relationship Maintenance with Talia Koren

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:30:08 GMT

Jayda welcomes non-nonsense dating coach Talia Koren to share her no-nonsense advice and wisdom on dating intentionally and maintaining hope in the modern dating landscape. They discuss the challenges of dating today, the importance of aligning actions with desires, and how to make grounded decisions amidst the chemistry and sparks of new relationships. Talia also opens up about her personal dating journey, her views on slow-burn relationships, effective communication in partnerships, and invaluable advice for creating a fulfilling single life. Together, they explore how to set realistic expectations, maintain personal boundaries, and nurture healthy, meaningful connections. Tune in for practical tips and hopeful insights into the world of dating and relationships!

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Talia Koren Website

Talia Koren is a dating podcaster, content creator, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping people navigate modern dating with confidence and ease. As the founder of Dating Intentionally, she empowers singles—especially women in their 30s to 50s—to date with purpose, develop stronger connections, and have fun along the way. Talia has built a community of intentional daters seeking guidance, practical advice, and a refreshing perspective on love. Her insights, rooted in experience and research, challenge common dating misconceptions and provide actionable strategies for folks who are looking to get into a long term relationship.

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BONUS: Here’s Thinking x Sasha Digiulian

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible world champion and multi medalist rock climber, Sasha Digiulian - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Sasha Digiulian

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Climbing for World Medals and When Your Body Says No with Sasha DiGiulian

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Today Jayda sits down with world-renowned professional climber Sasha Digiulian. From early aspirations and overcoming significant challenges, including major surgeries and gender bias in climbing, Sasha shares her incredible journey with resilience and hope. Sasha lets Jayda in on the mantra that drives here and her transition from competitive climbing to outdoor adventures, and the pivotal moments that defined her career. As well as her reflections on working towards goals, and learning how to listen to your own body and say no. Sasha also opens up about embracing her femininity in a male-dominated sport, revealing personal experiences of sexism and the importance of self-love and creating space for duality in identity. This heartfelt conversation is filled with reflections on identity, perseverance, and the support systems that keep us going.

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Watch Here To Climb Trailer

Sasha DiGiulian, who is undoubtedly one of the most renowned professional climbers in the world. A world champion, and multi medalist in National and Global rock climbing competitions, She has been Female Overall World Champion, as well as the undefeated pan-American Champion for a 10-year reign, and 3-time US National Champion. Sasha was the first North American Woman, and 3rd Woman in the World to climb the grade 5.14d, (9a). She has traveled to over 50 countries globally and accomplished 30+ First and First Female Ascents around the world, including Big Walls of 5.14 grades. These accomplishments have garnered her world wide attention, including gracing the cover of 27 magazines, and features including Oprah, Good Morning America, The Today Show, 60 Minutes Sports, Nightline, CNN, BBC, Vogue, TIME, as well as global endorsement deals. Sasha is also highly respected for speaking out on gender bias in the sport and been featured in numerous climbing documentaries for the likes of HBO and Red Bull. As a board member of the Women's Sports Foundation she uses her work to support other women in climbing and even had the rock climbing emoji designed in her likeness!

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BONUS: Here’s Thinking x James Massiah

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible poet, DJ, rapper and founder of the new poetry event Adult Entertainment, James Massiah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

James Massiah

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Church to Hedonism, Playful Poetry and Why Determinism Cultures Hope with James Massiah

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 08:26:37 GMT

In this engaging episode, James shares with Jayda his journey from growing up in the church to developing his unique philosophies and artistic expressions. The conversation delves into his transition away from religious beliefs, his exploration of hedonism, and how these themes manifest in his poetry. They also discuss the importance of community, sustainable pleasure, and artistic excellence. James sheds light on his upcoming projects and the philosophy of amoral egoism, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and one's artistic vision. This episode offers deep insights for anyone interested in the interplay between art, identity, and hope.

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James Massiah is a renowned London-based poet, DJ, rapper and founder of the new poetry event Adult Entertainment, hailing from South London. His poetry is known for the playful musings on ethics, mortality and hedonism, as well as the ups and downs of life, love and labour in London in his ongoing series of "New Poems". Massiah's work has received critical acclaim and has been featured in various publications including The Guardian and VICE. He has also performed at prestigious venues such as the Barbican, Tate Modern, British Library and Houses of Parliament. James has been profiled in Vogue, Dazed, i-D, GQ and worked with brands such as Dior, Louis Vuitton, Matches and Loewe. In 2019 he released ‘Natural Born Killers’, a self-produced four-track EP of downtempo, electronic music that was nominated for ‘best alternative video UK’ at the 2019 Music Video Awards and won Best Music Video at the EnergaCAMERIMAGE film festival and was followed by the EP, True Romance.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Michelle Elman

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible life coach, author and public speaker, Michelle Elman - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Michelle Elman

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Break Ups & Boundaries in Friendships & Romantic Relationships with Michelle Elman

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode Jayda and Michelle talk all things dating and break ups, both romantic and platonic! Michelle delves into her journey of setting boundaries, overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, and offers practical advice to our listeners on how to assert oneself in relationships and friendships. The conversation transitions into her personal experiences with breakups, particularly dealing with the aftermath of a recent infidelity, and the importance of maintaining clear communication and self-respect in such times as a form of self care and way to personally practice hope. Jayda and Michelle also talk about the often-overlooked complexities of friendship dynamics and the significance of handling friendship breakups with the same respect we afford romantic relationships. Listen in for a compelling discussion on hope, resilience, and the nuanced human connections that shape our lives.

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Michelle Elman Books

Michelle Elman website

Life coach, author and public speaker, Michelle Elman is also known as the “Queen of Boundaries”. Michelle is known for her candid and straight-talking approach to dating and self-love, and her four best-selling books, Am I Ugly, The Joy Of Being Selfish, The Selfish Romantic and How To Say No, and is also the host of one of the Top 3 Education podcasts in the UK, In All Honesty. Michelle has garnered a following grateful for her earnest sharing on living through illness, surgery, navigating body shaming, building self love, dating and most recently break ups. Michelle has been a media life coach on ITV’s This Morning and BBC3 documentaries, as well as for celebrities like Emily Atack on W Channel.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Gianmarco Soresi

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible stand-up comedian, actor, and creator, Gianmarco Soresi - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Gianmarco Soresi

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Child of Divorce, Immigrant Humor, Working Crowds & Writing Jokes with Gianmarco Soresi

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

A huge comedy fan, Jayda is thrilled to meet New York-based comedian and actor Gianmarco Soresi in this episode. Where they discuss the vital role humour plays in survival, especially within immigrant and minority experiences, and how laughter can foster hope and resilience. Gianmarco shares his journey from being a theatre kid to a stand-up comedian, the impact of his upbringing and being a child of divorce on his comedic style, and the unique challenges of performing comedy across different venues and formats. He also delves into the nuances of crafting jokes about sensitive topics without causing harm, how to write an inoffensive Trans joke and how comedy intertwines with identity. Listen in to hear a funny and insightful conversation about the art of comedy, the importance of staying adaptable and how it connects to hope for Jayda and Gianmarco.

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Listen The Downside

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Gianmarco Soresi is a New York-based stand-up comedian, actor, and creator known for his sharp societal observation and spry, energetic stage presence, which has garnered him critical acclaim from NPR, Esquire, The Atlantic, Buzzfeed, ABC News, and many more. He’s performed stand-up on The Late Late Show with James Corden, Comedy Central, Don’t Tell, The Real Housewives of New York, and was selected as a JFL New Face in 2022. He was also featured on Netflix’s recent multi-comic stand-up series “Verified Stand-Up”. Gianmarco has also acted in Billy Crystal's Here Today, Netflix’s Bonding, Hustlers, The Last OG, and is the host of the popular podcast “The Downside with Gianmarco Soresi.” Gianmarco is currently on his “The Leaning In” Tour throughout North America, taking the tour internationally this summer and just recently released his own Netflix special.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Charlie Dark

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible DH, founder of Run Dem Crew, Yoga teacher and health and wellness advocate - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Charlie Dark

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Running for Mental Health, Making Wellness Inclusive for People of Colour & Being Authentic in the Music Industry with Charlie Dark

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this fascinating conversation, Charlie shares his profound journey through music and mental health with Jayda. Talking about the incredible highs he’s experienced as a DJ, but also the often unspoken harder parts of the industry, including the loneliness and depression he experienced. Diving deeper into his mental health, Charlie talks with Jayda about he was struggling the hardest at some of the most pivotal moments in his career, and how discovering running and yoga transformed his mental health. Jayda hears how the significant impact running had for Charlie, led him to found the urban running collective Run Dem Crew, to encourage more inner city Londoners to take up running. They talk about how running, movement and community are pillars of hope for them, internally and socially, as well as why Charlie works with disadvantaged communities, including in prisons, to share the practice of yoga with them, to help give hope and inner strength to those he feels needs it most. Charlie also expands on why yoga classes and wellness spaces must diversify, so people of all backgrounds can see themselves in the spaces and feel a sense of belonging and connection with wellness practice too.

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Run Dem Crew

Hailing from South London, growing up on pirate radio and warehouses parties, Charlie Dark is a stalwart of the underground UK music scene, spinning records and igniting dance floors since the early eighties. From his time on Mo Wax records with Attica Blues in the 90’s, a major label deal on Sony Records and the plethora of remixes and productions, DJing and bringing people together has been at the heart of everything he’s gone onto achieve. If you ever caught his Blacktronica Parties, sets at the legendary Plastic People or listened to his Worldwide FM or NTS radio shows then you’ll know that 'All forms of music in one room the way it used to be’ has always been his motto and his record crates run deep. Charlie is also the founder of the urban run collective Run Dem Crew, a Yoga teacher and advocate for mental health and wellness within the music industry.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Liv Little

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible writer and creative, Liv Little - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Liv Little

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Ending Projects, New Chapters & Writing for Yourself with Liv Little

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode Jayda welcomes Liv Little, writer and founder of iconic POC magazine gal-dem. Liv shares her journey from founding gal-dem,to navigating its ending and her experience of closing chapters and beginning new ones. She shares the impact caring for her father when he was sick had on her life and career choice thereafter, and the process of writing her first book, Rosewater, whilst her father was battling terminal illness, and the importance of creating a space that just existed for herself. Expanding on her writing, Liv discussed not only learnt about herself through the creative process but also the importance of representation in film & TV and the ability to connect with characters and how she is trying to create more queer POC stories and characters on screen specifically in main roles. This is a conversation about following your intuition, creating personal creative spaces and building a community that you see yourself in.

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Rose Water by Liv Little

Liv Little is a writer and creative working across journalism, literature, film, and TV. A leading voice in contemporary UK media, having founded gal-dem magazine. Liv has gone on to release her debut novel, Rosewater, last year and she wrote and directed BBC Film BUMPED (BBC Film), and is currently developing projects with Left Bank, BBC/Parkville, and Emenata Studios. Liv has contributed to numerous major publications and hosted the ‘Why I…Move’ podcast with Nike and Elle, and led campaigns for brands like Google and MAC. A BBC Writer in Residence (2021), she was featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 and recognized as a top speaker by The Dots.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Molly McCann-Pearson

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the iconic mixed martial arts champion, Molly McCann Pearson - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Molly McCann Pearson

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Recovery After Injury, Emotional Resilience, Gratitude Practice & Coming Out with Molly McCann-Pearson

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

This week Jayda is thrilled to welcome mixed martial arts champion Molly McCann Pearson. Molly reflects on her journey of first falling in love with martial arts, to playing football for Liverpool to then becoming an MMA champion. Jayda digs deep into Molly’s relationship with resilience, perseverance, and finding hope after injury. Molly explores how being from Liverpool and her family, especially her grandmother, shaped her life and how she has navigated the trials and tribulations of her career. Jayda asks how she first got into fighting and why being accepted into the gym was so important to her as a young girl. Molly also delves into her personal experience of coming out as gay and the support she received from her family and the UFC. She reflects on dealing with public scrutiny, the mental and physical challenges of her career, and the importance of mental health and therapy, especially when hitting rock bottom like she did after breaking her leg. As well as how her lifelong gratitude practice and her profound love of music has helped her through life.

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Molly McCann-Pearson aka Meatball Molly is the iconic mixed martial arts champion! Molly is a former Cage Warriors Flyweight Champion and currently competes in the women's Straweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Growing up in Liverpool, UK, Molly started off playing professional football for Liverpool for 5 years before an injury initiated her retirement from football. After which Molly started training again in MMA - Mixed Martial Arts, which kickstarted her iconic MMA career and the numerous titles she amassed and won me over as a massive fan!

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Venetia La Manna

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible fair fashion campaignerand co-founder of Remember Who Made Them, Venetia La Manna - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Venetia La Manna

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Ethical Fashion, Garment-Makers Rights & Holistic Lifestyle Change with Venetia La Manna

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Jayda is joined by renowned fair fashion campaigner ,Venetia La Manna, to discuss sustainable fashion, climate justice, and ethical consumption. Venetia shares her journey from television production to social media activism, emphasising the need to dismantle oppressive systems within the fashion industry. They explore the misleading nature of 'sustainable fashion,' the concept of slow fashion, and the impact of social media on consumption habits. Venetia highlights her campaign 'Speak Volumes' and organisation 'Remember Who Made Them,' focusing on garment workers' rights and advocating for systemic change. Venetia also does an amazing job of breaking down the impact of patriarchy and sexism on consumerism and why for women, it can be particularly hard to break away from fast fashion, and her advice on holistic well-being and self-worth practices are at the heart of improving your relationship with fashion.

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Remember Who Made Them

Venetia La Manna (she/her) is a fair fashion campaigner. Through her social media platforms, Venetia challenges fashion brands who are costing the earth and calls out corporations on their unethical practices. A co-founder of Remember Who Made Them, which aims to energise a new solidarity economy in fashion; seeking to uplift the voices and demands of garment makers. In 2023, she presented a documentary called The Fast Furniture Fix for BBC Radio 4. She is featured in the Channel 4 documentary Inside Shein. Venetia has written for atmos and The Independent and in 2024 she was a judge for the inaugural Women's Prize for Non-Fiction.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Louis VI

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible Rapper, Musician, Film Composer, Documentary Maker, Zoologist and Nature activist, Louis VI - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Louis VI

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Reconnecting POC With Nature, Re-Valuing Listening & Combining Your Passions with Louis VI

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:54:10 GMT

Jayda and Louis explore their academic journeys, with Louis sharing how a teacher’s disparaging comments pushed him to pursue medical school, despite it not being his true passion. Finding the courage to pivot, Louis rediscovered his love for zoology and began combining his passions for nature and music to raise awareness about climate change. Louis shares some incredible facts about animals but also a feel understanding of how colonial ideologies are reliant on separating humans from nature and gives examples of how this occurred. Louis also opens up about working in the Wildlife film industry as a mixed-race Black man, revealing its lack of inclusivity and colonial undertones. He critiques the predominance of white professionals in zoology and environmental fields, and the disconnection of Black and Brown communities from their ancestral lands. Louis explains why he believes spending time in nature is a powerful act of resistance for city-based POC, and how he is helping make outdoor spaces more accessible.

Together Jayda and Louis discuss the mental health benefits of nature, Louis’ transformative trips to the Amazon and his paternal homeland, Dominica, and the climate crisis’ impact on the island. Jayda and Louis also reflect on their time at COP26, criticizing its shortcomings while celebrating the connections it led to with native climate activists worldwide. Together, they examine colonialism’s lasting impact on nature and how communities can resist and heal through reconnection with each other and the outdoors.

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EARTHLING

Louis VI is a Rapper, Musician, Film Composer, Documentary Maker, Zoologist and Nature activist, cross-pollinating music & nature. Louis’ mission is to use his music, documentaries and keynote speeches to help diasporic people reestablish their connection with nature. Louis’ keynote speech at COP26 about the colonial legacy of Climate Change and the alienation of people of colour in the UK from access to nature, drew on his award-winning documentary “The World Is (Y)ours” . Louis has collaborated extensively with Earth Percent, a charity founded by Brian Eno and was one of first artists in the world to officially feature “NATURE” as an artist. His music centres the climate justice movement - weaving together a love for melody and a multitude of genres cut with atmospheric field recordings from his time spent in the natural world.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Emma Dabiri

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:18:17 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible writer, television presenter, lecturer and speaker, Emma Dabiri - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Emma Dabiri

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Decolonising Beauty with African Philosophy for Self-Worth with Emma Dabiri

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Jayda sits down with Emma Dabiri to hear her academically informed understanding of beauty and identity. As well as drawing on her own unique mixed Irish and Nigerian identify, Emma reflects on how her degrees in African Studies and History laid the foundation for her deep understanding of the impact of colonialism on how we perceive ourselves and our bodies. Emma shares her knowledge of global history and philosophy, tracing the emergence of racial hierarchies and explaining why Western culture’s emphasis on appearance stems from colonialism. She contrasts this with pre-colonial Yoruba philosophy, which prioritizes inner beauty and shares her insights on body image, self-perception, and why dance and music is at the heart of connecting to herself with hope.

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Emma Dabiri - The Guardian

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Emma Dabiri books

Emma Dabiri is an esteemed writer, television presenter, lecturer and speaker, Emma is the author of ‘Dont Touch My Hair’ and ‘What White People Can Do Next’ and the host of BBC Four’s ‘Britain’s Lost Masterpieces’, the Channel docuseries ‘Is Love Racist’ and the radio show ‘Journeys in Afrofuturism’. She is also a frequent contributor to the Guardian and the Irish Times. Her work explores the intersections of race and gender, as well as examining the impact of capitalism and colonialism on society.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Damon Gameau

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible film director, speaker, and author, Damon Gameau - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Damon Gameau

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Dreaming Climate Solutions with Kids, Your Inner Child & Creative Activism with Damon Gameau

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 14:04:02 GMT

In this episode of Here’s Hoping, Jayda G chats with filmmaker Damon Gameau about his new documentary Future Council and his dedication to empowering kids to tackle climate challenges while staying hopeful. Damon shares how his latest project helps children overcome fears for the climate and their future by sharing ideas and calls to action with senior figures, and emotive oy engage them in taking meaningful action for the planet. Jayda and Damon discuss the power of children’s creativity and getting everyone to tap into the inner child to drive climate solutions, and shifting activism from fear-mongering to joyful dreaming.

Damon emphasizes the importance of healing the future—not stealing it— and fostering a regeneration mindset and action over sustainability, which is no longer good enough. Damon shared with a Jayda why he started his platform The Regenrators which creates personalized action plans directing his film audiences to actions and resources that makes most sense for them, and how Damon has created a way to convert impressions of doc activism into tangible action. Jayda and Damon also discuss how dreaming of a better world and engaging in positive action can transform anxiety into hope and inspire real change, and why working with children fills Damon with hope for the future. This is a wonderful episode for inspiring people who need hope and also want to learn more about how to talk and work with kids around the theme of the climate crisis and activism.

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The Regenerators - Future Council

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The Regenerators

Future Council Trailer

Damon Gameau is an Australian film director, speaker, and author. After making a name for himself as an actor and fiction director, in 2015 Damon turned to activism with his debut feature documentary “That Sugar Film”, which became Australia’s highest grossing documentary film ever. Damon turned his focus to the climate with his climate solutions feature documentary “2040” in which he imagines a future climate crisis free world for his daughter, and is now releasing his latest climate focused doc ‘Future Councils’, where he took a group of kids around the world to engage senior figures in talks on climate action and positive change . Damon is also a co-founder of Regen Studios and the impact platform The Regenerators which builds comprehensive impact campaigns for their films and raises money for ecological solutions and awareness in classrooms, boardrooms, and Parliaments around the world.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ben Rebuck

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing plant-based chef, Ben Rebuck - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Ben Rebuck

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Jewish Joy, Going Vegan & Navigating Online Hate with Ben Rebuck

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Jayda sits down with plant-based chef Ben Rebuck to explore the intersections of food, identity, and activism. They kick things off by discussing why Veganuary feels less and less relevant, why that is actually a good thing and Ben’s reflections on how veganism has shifted culturally as well as why he thinks reframing plant-based food as simply food makes it more accessible. They share their strong connection with food and eating as Jews and Jayda asks to Ben how he stays connected to the food traditions of his Jewish identity as a vegan and he shares how he has embraced the creativity of reimagining classic recipes in a vegan way. Jayda and Ben go on to discuss Jewish Joy deeper, the power of preserving cultural traditions, the importance of finding joy in community, and the unique challenges of being part of a very small but vibrant minority. Ben opens up about navigating social media as a Jewish creator over the last 18 months, confronting antisemitism, and how he’s embraced the role of shielding his family and community from harm online. Going deeper into this, they discuss the complex and fascinating parallel between far-left and far-right ideologies of late, particularly when it comes to antisemitism. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking episode that celebrates food and the enduring importance of tradition.

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Ben Rebuck is the face behind @benrebuck, a popular social media account in which he shows people how to make simple plant-based meals. Ben also uses his platform to discuss issues around antisemitism, and has taken great pride in becoming a spokesperson for the Jewish community.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Rachel Elizabeth Cargle

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the inspiring Rachel Elizabeth Cargle, an author, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropic innovator - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Rachel Cargle

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Free Therapy for Black Women & Radical Self Love with Rachel Elizabeth Cargle

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode Jayda asks what self-love means to Rachel and hears how for her true self-love begins with knowing yourself and when to step off the “life escalator” to reclaim your authenticity. Rachel explains the courage muscle and why you have to train it to embrace your own values, including her own personal choice to remain childfree, as well as why she doesn’t want that to be radical. Jayda also asks Rachel about her amazing foundation and why Rachel advocates and fundraises to make therapy more accessible to black women and girls, but why at the same time as providing free therapy to them she also campaigns to support more black therapists to be able to train. Rachel gives insight into why she thinks it’s important to work with Black therapists if you are black, as well as her astute reasoning for why it’s more cost-effective! Jayda also heard Rachel’s advice for loving with grief and the power of reimagining in life, especially for Black people. This episode is a powerful look at self-love, therapy and healing.

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The Loveland Foundation website

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Rachel Elizabeth Cargle is an author, activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropic innovator. She is founder of The Loveland Group; a family of companies including Elizabeth’s Bookshop & Writing Centre, a literary space that celebrates marginalised voices and The Great Unlearn, a community learning space that centres the teaching of BIPOC thinkers. In 2018, she founded The Loveland Foundation, offering free access to mental health care for Black women and girls. Cargle is a regular contributor to Cultured Magazine, Atmos, and The Cut, and her work has been featured in Time Magazine, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The New Yorker. Her debut memoir A Renaissance of Our Own published by Penguin Random House in May 2023 with the paperback releasing March 26th, 2024.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Lady Shaka

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 06:00:08 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible DJ and interdisciplinary artist of Pacific Island, Māori, and Cape Verdean descent - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Lady Shaka

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Indigenous Underground Dance Culture & Queer Actualisation Through Community with Lady Shaka

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 06:00:06 GMT

Jayda meets the most vibrant Lady Shaka to chat all about how she went from a professional dancer to become a DJ, spoiler, it’s a hilarious story, but importantly how she has been using her platform to lift up other indigenous and Pacific Islander artists through her curated Boiler Room events and global parties and collective. Shaka shares core philosophies part of her identities including Mana, and how they guide her work as a multidisciplinary artist. Jayda and Shaka also discuss what it was like for each of them as mixed-race artists to move from small towns to a city of London overflowing with culture, and for Shaka how especially joining queer POC spaces and club nights have been fundamental to her self actualisation and discussing the importance of being around people who look like you. Shaka brings so much energy to this conversation, having us in stitches as well as making us cry, you are going to love it!

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Pulotu Underworld

Lady Shaka Boiler Room

Rarotonga Boiler Room

Lady Shaka is a DJ and interdisciplinary artist of Pacific Island, Māori, and Cape Verdean descent, originally from Aotearoa (New Zealand) and now based in London. Her music blends electronic sounds with her queer identity, cultural roots, and connection to the moana (ocean). As part of a new wave of Pasifika artists, she challenges mainstream norms with genre-defying work that reclaims and re-indigenizes the Pasifika experience. Recognized at the 2023 Pacific Music Awards, she won the ‘Creative New Zealand Award’ for her innovative contributions to contemporary music. A former dancer, Lady Shaka views music as a powerful medium for storytelling and expression. She made history as one of the first Pacific Islanders to perform on Boiler Room in 2021 with queer collective Filth and has since performed globally. In 2024, she helped bring Boiler Room to the Pacific Islands for the first time, debuting the series in Rarotonga.

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Jayda and Mia (Our Producer!)'s End of Year Special Q&A

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 06:00:23 GMT

In our this end of year special, Jayda sits down with Here’s Hoping’s producer Mia Zur-Szpiro to discuss together the making of the podcast, what it has been like working together, what they have learned about one another, but also themselves, through doing the podcast. They also discuss their favourite episodes, which guests made them think the most and how making the podcast has impacted their relationship with hope. They also tease some upcoming episodes releasing in the new year!!

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Emma Armstrong

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:00:18 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible creative visionary, entrepreneur and the founder of the naked doula brand, Emma Armstrong - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Emma Armstrong

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Hypnobirth as Empowerment, Holistic Labour & Reducing Fear with Emma Armstrong

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 06:00:21 GMT

Straight off Emma dives right in with some amazing advice around how to work with your body to make your birth experience as positive as possible and with that the importance of oxytocin and understanding its impact as her number one advice and why. Jayda also asks Emma to really explain what a doula actually is and Emma busts myths about what a doula is not and why having a doula is all about enhancing your experience of birth. Emma also talks about the fear mongering around birth, but also how to face valid fear of pain with curiosity and an embodied relationship with self to help yourself feel embodied to navigate pain and the experience of labour. Jayda asks Emma about the connection between the patriarchy and women being disempowered in their birth experience as a default and and Emma gave great advice on how to advocate for yourself more especially with care providers, they also discuss the different experiences people of colour have during labour as well anyone LGBTQ+, and why Emma emphasises how important it is to actively choose the team you work with and always prioritise your safety, support and voice. With that, Emma talks about Hypnobirthing, why she teaches it, why it is so significant for people’s labour experience and how it is at heart a mindset and about connecting deeply with yourself. A great and informative conversation for anyone who is pregnant or supporting a person going into labour, now or in the future!

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The Naked Doula

The Nake Doula Etsy Shop

Emma Armstrong, a creative visionary, entrepreneur and the founder of the Naked Doula brand is a retired birth doula & hypnobirthing coach who has built a worldwide visual education platform which will inspire women and men alike for years to come. Emma is using her influence and gifts to guide women all over the world in connecting back to their self-trust, confidence and abilities not just in birth but in all aspects of their lives. Emma is also a writer, author and illustrator, with her debut book The Fearless Birth Book hitting the shelves earlier this year and the fearless birth journal due to drop in April 2026.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jide Maduako

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 06:00:41 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible entrepreneur and founder of the adventure community 'Versus Everyone', Jide Maduako - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Jide Maduako

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Trekking Everest & Building Adventure Communities with Jide Maduako

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:00:44 GMT

Jide shares with Jayda how he got into outdoors adventuring that has seen him go everywhere from Morocco to Everest, and how he credits his mum for his entrepreneurial and adaptive character. He talks about the importance of creating the spaces you want yourself and why community is at the core of hope for him, Jayda and Jide also talk about both being black people who love being in the outdoors but why it isn’t always accessible to POC people in the West and so why Jide has built a community that makes going on outdoors adventures both a safe space but also a joyful space for black people and POC, especially wanting to make trekking and travel safer for black women. Jide also shares his dreams and what mountain he wants to summit, and the importance of finding like minded people to achieve your goals and bring expansive adventure to your life.

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Versus Everyone

Jide Mariano, aka Saint Jidz, is an entrepreneur and founder of the adventure community, Versus Everyone. Jide’s journey began with playing football for Ipswich Town and Leicester City. After which he co-founded Yoke Network, a successful TikTok marketing agency. But despite his growing business, Jide’s passion for adventure led him to rediscover his true calling after a trek to Everest in 2023. Since then he’s dedicated his time taking people outdoors and into the wild through the community he has built.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jimanekia Eborn

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible Sexual Assault & Trauma Expert, Trauma Media Consultant, and Comprehensive Sex Educator Jimanekia Eborn - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Jimanekia Eborn

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Trauma Healing, Personal Growth & Asking for Help with Jimanekia Eborn

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 12:21:33 GMT

Content Warnings: Murder, Rape, Sexual Assault

In this powerful and at times hard hitting but at the same time joyful episode, Jimanekia shares the very personal reasons she has become a trauma specialist. She shares very helpful insight into what trauma is and how to notice if trauma is showing up in yourself or people in your life; as well as the importance of taking a holistic and somatic perspective to trauma as well as psychological and social one. Jimanekia talks with Jayda about how to actually ask for help as someone who struggles to and why you need to be really specific and teach people how to show up for you. At the same time she talks to why each person needs to take responsibility for our capacity to support others and set boundaries around that and the importance of directly communicating to a person needing help if you are burnt out. Jayda also asks Jimanekia about generational trauma and her advice on how to break out of roles and family systems that no longer serve you as well as if Jimanekia thinks one can overcome trauma and her reflection on the difference between wiping away what has happened to you, rather, changing how things affect you. This conversation is also full of Jimanekia’s advice for daily tips and habits to help yourself work through trauma, live in self worth and with self love, how to talk back to the negative voice in your head and the radical importance of centring joy in your life even if you are navigating trauma, and how to take ‘healing off the pedestal’ and move towards a growing mindset instead.

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Trauma Queen

Trauma Queen Podcast

Jimanekia Eborn is a Queer, Sexual Assault & Trauma Expert, Trauma Media Consultant, and Comprehensive Sex Educator, who has worked in mental health for the past 16 years in sex education and sexual trauma support. Jimanekia is the Founder of Tending the Garden, a non-profit for sexual assault survivors of different marginalized identities and Co-founder of Cintima, bringing increased representation to the field of Intimacy Coordination in the film industry.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ixta Belfrage

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 06:00:21 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible Chef and author of book 'MEZCLA', Ixta Belfrage - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Ixta Belfrage

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Cooking For Yourself, Food as Self Care & Tasting the World with Ixta Belfrage

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:00:21 GMT

In this mouth watering episode, Ixta shares with Jayda some phenomenal food stories including learning about indigenous cooking in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, but also goes deep into her personal relationship with food, and how she learned to avoid the pressure to cook for social media and make viral recipes, but actually listening to her own body and developing food that truly nourishes her. Ixta also shares how she first learned to cook and how she draws on her unbelievable mix of cultural heritages of Mexico, Brazil and Italy, and the beauty of fusion. Ixta breaks down how to make cooking delicious food more easy, and why she wants people to feel more empowered to follow their own senses and tastes rather than recipes have to be dogmatic. Lastly Jayda and Ixta share the role food and eating plays in bringing people together.

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MEZCLA Book

Fusion Chef Ixta Belfrage rose to prominence as the co-author of the recipe book FLAVOUR alongside the GOAT, Yotam Ottolenghi. Her own acclaimed solo cookbook Mezcla, features in ELLE UK and restaurant residencies, draw on her own multicultural heritage and culinary inspirations of Brazil, Italy, and Mexico, and has affirmed her as one of the most exciting food writers and cook’s today. Ixta is currently working on her next cookbook all about Brazil.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ben Hurst

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:00:38 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible activist, educator, host, presenter, model and Director of Facilitation and Training at Beyond Equality - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Ben Hurst

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Defining Healthy Masculinity & Raising Boys with Ben Hurst

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:00:41 GMT

In this insightful conversation, Ben shares with Jayda how he works with boys and men to explore what masculinity means to them, and why Ben doesn’t have the answer but instead has the questions that help them define their own perspectives. Jayda and Ben discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for boys and men to have vulnerable conversations but also discuss the complexity of being vulnerable and feeling unsafe to many men considering how they have been socialised and the realities for many men. Ben also gives his powerful insight into why many boys and men gravitate towards men like Andrew Tate and how it connects to many boys needing role models of what it means to be a man, and so the importance of more healthy male role models in boys’ lives. Jayda also talks about being pregnant with a baby boy and together with Ben, discusses their thoughts around parenting and raising young boys to be as healthy and loved as possible.

Content Warnings: Suicide

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TEDx Talk - Boys will be boys

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Beyond Equality

Beyond Equality Website

Ben Hurst is an activist, educator, host, presenter, podcaster, model, public speaker and the Director of Facilitation and Training at Beyond Equality, a UK-based organisation that engages men and boys in the gender equality conversation across Schools, Universities and Corporate spaces, rethinking masculinities and promoting positive personhood and healthy relationships.

Ben discusses these topics online, most notably in his TEDx Talk, ‘Boys won’t be boys. Boys will be what we teach them to be’, and in print, with features in Stylist magazine, Postscript, GQ and many more.

Ben is also the co-host of TED x London’s Climate Curious podcast where he lifts the lid on the climate emergency by speaking to the world’s leading and most relatable climate pioneers. Ben’s focus is on making important conversations accessible for young people and adults from all walks of life.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Xiye Bastida

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 06:00:48 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible climate justice activist and mobilizer Xiye Bastida - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Xiye Bastida

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Environmental Teenage Defenders & Indigenous Stewarding of Nature with Xiye Bastida

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 06:00:01 GMT

We meet the truly impressive young coinage activist Xiye who shares with Jayda how living on the frontlines of climate change in her native Mexico led to her becoming a climate activist, how this was always a part of her parents and her Indigenous activists parent’s life, but how moving to New York after her home was flooded and getting involved with Fridays for Future and connecting to Greta Thurnberg cemented her destiny. Xiye talks about her indigenous identity and the values that are a core part of her and how that drives her activism work and why she thinks the number one thing western activists can do is listen to the communities affected by climate issues. Xiye also explains why she and her family call themselves environmental defendants and what stewarding land and the amazon means and how it shows that indigenous people and the land like the Amazon are inseparable. She also talks about the absolute necessity of hope, and why hope cannot be an option, but has to be a priority for people on the frontlines of the climate crisis, and why started the re-earth initiative to embody her values.

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Re-Earth Initiative Website

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Re-Earth Initiative IG

Xiye Bastida is a 22-year-old Mexican climate justice activist and mobilizer. Through her Otomi roots, she champions Indigenous worldviews as a solution for the climate crisis. She was an organiser with Fridays For Future and is the co-founder of Re-Earth Initiative, an international youth-led organisation that supports frontline youth across 27 countries. Xiye was the recipient of the 2018 UN Spirit Award and was named TIME100 Next in 2023. She earned her degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2024.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x MINA

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 06:00:26 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible music artist, producer and DJ, Mina - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

MINA

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Alcohol-Free Raving & When To Scale Careers Down with MINA

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:00:12 GMT

MINA shares with Jayda how she came up through the Leeds music scene and was influenced by its DIY attitude that anyone could start anything, talking more about how she created her career and connected with people like her around the world, onto when and why she chose to go sober. MINA talks about what it’s been like as a sober DJ and music lover, why people react more weirdly when you say no to alcohol versus any other drug, misconceptions about alcohol and people who don’t drink and why the most fun people she knows don’t drink. Jayda asks MINA more about why she created an alcohol-free event, Club Soft, hearing the different reasons she started it, from creating a safe space for people in recovery, people of different religions, people who also just want to be able to rave and get up the next day without a hangover, and creating a generally safer space for women and minority genders. Jayda and MINA also get into when they actually choose not try to level up and expand one’s career, and sometimes why getting bigger isn’t always better. As well as the importance to always ask yourself the question if something is going to nourish you.

*****Make sure you catch Club Soft this Saturday 2nd November to join the alcohol-free rave in London. Link below!*****

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Club Soft

RA: Club Soft Tickets

This week’s guest is the music artist, producer and DJ, Mina. Mina has received a devoted following for her vibrant and melodic productions which connects the dots between diverse styles, fusing together sounds from the UK, with rhythms from around the world. Mina has collaborated with vocalists and producers from Brazil, Jamaica and Ghana, most notably the vocalist and MC Bryte, who she tours internationally with and she has released her high energy, highly danceable EPs through Portuguese label Enchufada, as well as her own label, Earth Kicks, founded in 2019. Alongside producing, Mina has a monthly residency on NTS radio, and is also part of the DJ collective Boko! Boko! with Tash LC and Juba. Mina has performed at prestigious venues and festivals around the world including Berghain, MoMA PS1, Nyege Nyege Festival and Primavera, and her tracks have been supported by key tastemakers such as Branko, Ben UFO and Jamz Supernova. Mina has also launched a service working closely with other artists to support grant writing and applications to help more independent artists receive creative grants and launched her new alcohol-free club night, Club Soft, with residencies in London.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Emma Slade Edmonson

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 05:00:21 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible sustainable fashion strategist and ethical brand consultant, Emma Slade Edmonson - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Emma Slade Edmonson

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Slow Fashion & Mixed-Race Identity with Emma Slade Edmonson

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:00:45 GMT

In this episode Emma and Jayda share their own experiences of being mixed-race and why being able to talk about their experiences and creating the space to do so as Emma is with her podcast and book is so important. As well as how creating a platform around talking about mixed race identities and bringing people together connects to cultivating hope for her, through making people feel less alone. Emma also shares what it was like being raised by white parents as a mixed-race kid and shares a lot of fascinating, and hard-hitting, information around past adoption policies and how they were racistly motivated. Jayda and Emma go deep into the theme of adoption and whether kids being adopted should be only adopted by families who reflect their same race and how they look. Jayda also asks Emma more about slow fashion and how she was able to make the changes to practice it as part of her everyday life. Emma shares really interesting insights into how tapping into slow fashion can help you slow down in general and live more mindfully, and why she thinks we must reconnect to humanity to appreciate everyone and everything involved in creating clothing and to then buy and wear more ethically. Emma discusses how her work around both race, identity and fashion all intersect around the theme of existentialism.

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Emma Slade Edmonson website

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The Half Of It Book

Emma Slade Edmonson is a slow fashion OG, a sustainable fashion strategist, and an ethical brand consultant. Emma launched her own ESE consultancy business to work with brands to help refocus their businesses for positive impact and social and environmental good, working with some of the UK’s biggest brands, charities and social enterprises such as Cancer Research UK, Shelter, Westfield, Universal and Mayamiko and is regularly featured in international press, including The Guardian, Huffington Post, Vogue, Grazia, Telegraph and many more. Emma is also the creative strategist behind successful campaigns that celebrate thoughtful fashion consumption, including Charity Fashion Live & The Love Not Landfill pop-up stores and campaign. Emma is also the co-host of the podcast Mixed Up and the co-author of the book, The Half of It, both which explore the mixed-race identity and taking a deeper look at race and identity.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ruby Rare

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 05:00:34 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible writer, presenter, broadcaster and all-round sex and relationships expert, Ruby Rare - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Ruby Rare

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Sex Education, Pleasure, Non-Monogamy & Embracing Jealousy with Ruby rare

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 05:00:22 GMT

In this juicy and informative episode, Jayda asks Ruby what changes she wants to see to sex education, why Ruby thinks we have to centre pleasure in sex ed and how talking about pleasure is necessary to truly teach about consent. Ruby discusses how not to talk about sex and pleasure though and the importance and complexity of age-appropriate conversations around sex. Ruby shares some fascinating insight into Dualism, and how the philosophy that has separated mind and body is also seeped in patriarchy and has prevented us from having a more holistic relationship with sex and intimacy. Ruby also shares how she is able to find common ground with people who don’t feel queer or trans-inclusive and also the importance of allowing adults to say they don’t understand something. They also discuss the fear-mongering around porn and how to engage in porn in a healthy way, and Jayda also asks Ruby about her experiences of being non-monogamous and Ruby’s advice for anyone wanting to open up their relationship and explore non-monogamy but also feel like it would be too hard. They talk about how to navigate jealousy and the importance of accepting rather than fearing complex emotions.

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The Non-Monogamy Playbook

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Ruby Rare Website

Sex-Ed: A Guide For Adults

Ruby Rare (she/they) is an award-winning sex and relationships expert with over eight years of experience in the industry. A writer, presenter and broadcaster, they are on a mission to get everyone talking more confidently and inclusively about sex. Starting off as a sex educator for BROOK, UK’s leading sexual health charity, for which she remains an ambassador, Ruby has gone on to author two books, ‘Sex Ed: A Guide for Adults (Bloomsbury, 2020)’ and ‘The Non-Monogamy Playbook’ which is releasing on Penguin Random House in January 2025. Ruby also hosted the E4 show, Sex Rated alongside Rylan Clark and the popular podcast docu-series In Touch, which explores the ways we connect to sex, relationships, and our bodies with nuance and curiosity. Runy is also the co-founder of the body positive life drawing class, Body Love Sketch Club, and has been featured in the Guardian, Metro, Pink News, and Huffington Post, and has spoken at TedXLondon, Women of the World Festival, and on BBC Woman’s Hour. In 2023 Ruby won best Sex and Relationships Creator at the bCreator Awards, has been listed as one of 24 figures making a positive change to social media in Cosmopolitan’s Positivity Index, and is on The DIVA Power List, which celebrates queer trailblazers changing the game for LGBTQ+ representation. Ruby enjoys collaborative partnerships with the likes of Netflix, Modibodi, LELO, JOYClub and Feeld.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x JAGUAR

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 05:00:09 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible broadcaster, DJ and journalist, Jaguar - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Jaguar

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Gender Equality & Finding Purpose in Dance Music with JAGUAR

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:03 GMT

In this episode, Jaguar and Jayda discuss their different trajectories into music and Jaguar’s personal experience of having a dream and what it took to make it into reality. She talks about the importance of people she looked up to, like Annie Mac, listening to what her dreams were and supporting them. She also discussed how challenging the music industry is right now and why she thinks forming a collective is the best antidote to a ‘broken music industry’. Jayda asks Jaguar all about her foundation and the immensely impressive ‘Gender Equality Report She did in UK Dance Music’, they discussed their main takeaways from the report and whether they think things have or haven’t improved for female and minority gender artists and DJs. Lastly, they muse on the importance of doing what fills your cup and making choices to do what gives you life back and supports you in your journey through life.

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The Jaguar Foundation

Jaguar is a broadcaster, DJ and journalist. Alongside being an incredible DJ with her own label UTOPIA, and host of her award winning, BBC Introducing on Radio 1 Dance show, Jaguar set up the Jaguar Foundation, championing equality in dance music and commissioned a truly landmark report on gender equality in UK dance music.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Sol Guy

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 05:00:56 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible award-winning producer and director in filmmaking, Sol Guy - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Sol Guy

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Investing in People not Projects with Sol Guy

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 05:00:54 GMT

In this episode, Jayda and Sol dive deep into Sol's transformative work with Quiet, an artist-led organisation that prioritises creativity, care, and community. They discuss the significance of for-profit and nonprofit support, nurturing artists holistically, emphasising that support goes beyond financial assistance, it involves fostering a community where artists can thrive and develop fully. Sol shares insights from his 7 year journey with Quiet, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and teaching. He identifies the three key pillars of value alignment, self-care, and artistic sovereignty as essential for empowering artists in their practices.

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We Are Quiet

Sol Guy, aka Jayda’s big brother (!), is an award-winning producer and director whose career in filmmaking, music, community-building, and support of other ground-breaking artists demonstrates the power of art to heal and to catalyze social change. Sol is the co-founder of Quiet, an artist-led community based in trust, care, and empowerment, which offers a new approach to creative practice and support and champions philanthropy in the arts. Honored by National Geographic as an “Emerging Explorer,” Sol directed the feature documentary about his family, The Death of My Two Fathers and co-produced the Oscar-nominated film Bobi Wine: The People’s President, and more!

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Gail Muller

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 05:00:47 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible adventurer, author, speaker and coach, Gail Muller - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Gail Muller

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Overcoming Chronic Pain with Gail Muller

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:00:11 GMT

In this truly uplifting and expansive episode, Gail shares with Jayda her personal experiences with chronic pain and how she found the hope to overcome being told she would never be able to walk again. With that Gail tells Jayda her unbelievable stories of adventuring from everywhere from the Appalachian Trail to Alaska and her relationship with hope whilst conquering such journeys, but also the immense role the outdoors and being in the wild has had on hope itself. Gail also shares with Jayda her experience of getting a late diagnosis of ADHD and the impact of learning you are neurodivergent on both how you and others relate to and understand you. Gail goes into incredible detail of really unpacking what hope is, and gives us an even deeper understanding of therefore how to re-cultivate it when it's feeling hard to come by. We really think this episode will be so valuable to everyone, and really deepen your understanding of hope, whether you are facing chronic pain or a challenged sense of self for any reason.

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Gail Muller Website

Gail Muller is an adventurer, author, speaker and coach with a passion for education and a talent for inspiring others. Gail draws on her experience of overcoming huge personal challenges, including 15 years of chronic pain and a late ADHD diagnosis, helping others to do the same through her books, courses and retreats which she runs in Cornwall, empowering individuals to explore their creativity and overcome barriers. Gail embarked on a transformative journey in 2019, hiking the 2,200 mile Appalachian Trail, and has since authored the bestselling books "Unlost: A journey of self-discovery and the healing power of the wild outdoors”, and in 2023 "Do Hope: why you should never give up". Gail advocates for living joyfully and authentically.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x George The Poet

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 05:00:05 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible award winning spoken word performer and sociopolitical poet and author, George The Poet - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

George The Poet

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Decolonising Through Poetry & Love with George The Poet

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

George shares how going to Cambridge and the fear of being stereotyped kickstarted his transition from Grime & rap to poetry, and why he never looked back due to the greater freedom he feels there is to talk on vulnerable topics in poetry. George talks about the impact of coming across black poets Def Poetry Jam and connecting to it emotionally instantly and why he feels poetry has maintained a grassroots quality compared to music because of the struggle to truly commercialise it. On this theme George talks about the process of writing his non-fiction book, Track Record, drawing on his PhD in understanding why, despite the huge commercial success of Black music, Black communities haven’t truly benefitted and been empowered by that success and unpacking how Colonialism and its continued presence is core to this. George also tells Jayda why he didn’t accept the MBE offered to him in 2019 and how it relates to Colonialism and being Ugandan, but conversely how writing a poem for Harry and Megan’s wedding opened him up to love and led him to falling in love with his wife shortly after. Jayda and George talk about marriage and George shares how partnership with his wife has helped him stay grounded as an artist.

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Have You Heard George's Podcast?

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George the Poet is an award winning London-born spoken word performer and sociopolitical poet. George’s innovative brand of musical poetry has won him critical acclaim both as a recording artist and a social commentator. He is the author of multiple poetry books and the non-fiction book Track Record which explores the power dynamics that impact Black creativity. George is also the host of the podcast ‘Have you Heard George’s Podcast?’ which has won 5 British Podcast Awards! In 2019, George was offered an MBE, but turned it down due to due to the British Empire's history of exploitation. In 2021 The University of London presented George with an honorary doctorate in literature. George is now embarking on a PhD at UCL'S Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, focusing on the socio-economic potential of black music.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x James Corbin

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 05:00:27 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing high fashion model, activist and creative director, James Corbin - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

James Corbin

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Plus-Size Modelling & Colourism with James Corbin

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:00:04 GMT

In this episode James shares with Jayda what it was like becoming a model as a plus size dark skinned man and the self-actualisation that his first ever shoot had, and the feeling of figuring it out what it is you want to do in life. James also unpacks tokenism that happens in modelling and what the difference is between feeling tokenised versus fashion being truly inclusive, and how what you see in the people behind the scenes makes all the difference. On this he also spoke about the competition and colourism between plus size and dark skinned models and why he wants to see more space made in fashion for people like him. Jayda also asks James about the male experience of body image and James’ journey with body acceptance and James shared how it really doesn’t matter how you look on the outside but it’s how you internally feel about yourself. Lastly, James also spoke about the importance of brotherhood for men and how he draws on this theme in his work as a model and documentary maker.

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The Loveland Foundation

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James Corbin is a high fashion model, activist and creative director. He was scouted for his first modelling job in Vogue Italia during 2020 by photographer, Campbell Addy and is now represented as a model globally across the world. Some of his fashion credits include: Vogue Italia, Gucci, Valentino, BOSS, Lacoste, Dazed, British Fashion Council, Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, GQ, Perfect Magazine, Christian Cowan, S.S Daley, Mr Porter, Charles Jeffrey, Levi’s and many more.

James has a passion for discussing and writing on social issues and helping facilitate conversations of importance, that result in change. He has been interviewed and featured in profiles for The Guardian, Vogue, Dazed, Port Magazine, British Fashion Council, ES Magazine & The Independent. He is currently working on a personal documentary that delves into colourism within the UK, alongside a podcast project that aims to engage in conversations with industry insiders promoting self-confidence.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Karen Arthur

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:00:11 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing Podcast host of Menopause Whilst Black, activist and retreat founder, Karen Arthur - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Karen Arthur

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Joys of Aging & Black Menopause with Karen Arthur

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 05:00:20 GMT

In this brilliant episode, Karen shares with Jayda her experiences of going through the menopause and the differences in which Black people experience the menopause and unpacking the social racial issues behind this. They talk about the journey of aging, and your body changing, and how for Karen so much growth, positivity and beautiful change was born out of her life being turned upside down. Jayda asks Karen more around the stigma of aging, and why for Karen aging is a privilege and she has found more joy in her life the older she has become. At the same time Karen spoke about finding a balance of gratitude in life but also mourning change and loss, and what for her is the difference between healthy processing versus toxic positivity.

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Menopause Whilst Black Podcast

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Menopause Whilst Black

The Joy Retreat

Karen Arthur is the founder and host of the ground-breaking podcast Menopause Whilst Black, which champions Black British based menopausal stories now in its fifth season. Karen is a broadcaster, menopause diversity campaigner, and draws on her previous work as a fashion designer and model when founding ‘Wear Your Happy’ which is conscious clothing for better mental wellbeing.

Karen also created and hosted five star rated The Joy Retreat Barbados, the world’s first retreat designed exclusively for Black women in any stage of menopause, and is the host of bi-weekly radio conversation show ‘Can We Talk’ on Golddust Radio. Karen has been featured in Vogue, The Guardian, Times Radio and BBC London Radio as well as BBC Breakfast, Channel 4’s ‘Sex, Myths and the Menopause’ with Davina McCall and Sky Arts ‘Statues Re-Dressed’. Karen has advocated for diversity in menopause representing in Parliament twice and is now part of The Health Collective with RCOG committed to equity in women’s health care as well as the world’s first National Menopause Education and Support Programme with UCL. Her work on menopause is referenced in several books and cited in the British Medical Journal.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Sam Sutaria

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 05:00:34 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing CEO and founding member of media and film platform Waterbear, Sam Sutaria - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Sam Sutaria

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Building Community & Resilience with Sam Sutaria

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 05:00:40 GMT

Sam discusses how storytelling builds community and the importance stories and in-person gatherings play in mobilising a network around a cause, not just educating and informing. Sam talks about the opportunity and time sensitivity of closing the gap between inspiration and action, enabling people to make a positive impact and contribute to collective missions when they are moved by different stories. Jayda and Sam also talk about how seeing the tangible impact of your actions is crucial to motivating people to get involved, as well as coming up with more interesting and creative calls to actions. Sam dives into finding joy and lightness in activism and not just sacrifice, and how for Sam, building a social component to WaterBear and their campaigns and focusing on the intersection of entertainment and impact is crucial to achieve this. Sam also shares with Jayda the challenging sides of building a company, and the personal impact pushing yourself for something you are so passionate about can have on your mental health, along with the changes to lifestyle he’s made and recommendations for how people in impact can become more resilient and prioritize self-care.

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London Breeze Film Festival

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WaterBear

Blue Carbon (UK, NL, SA)

Rebels With Cause

Aegean Film Festival

Sam Sutaria is the CEO of WaterBear, the Certified B Corp community storytelling network entertaining people into action. Through award-winning storytelling, curating opportunities to take collective action, and building a global community, WaterBear is defining a new category in media at the intersection of the environment and culture. And the best part? The stories we tell are available at any time, on any device, for free.

Prior to helping found WaterBear, Sam was the GM of The European Nature Trust (TENT) and trained with the BBC’s Natural History Unit in Bristol. Sam also sits on the Board of the London Breeze Film Festival and Aegean Film Festival.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Courtney Brame

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:00:20 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing emotional wellness practioner and founder of Something Positive For positive people, Courtney Brame - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Courtney Brame

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Men’s Emotional Wellness & Herpes Stigma with Courtney Brame

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:00:43 GMT

In this fascinating conversation, Courtney brakes down STI and herpes stigma, and how stigma around herpes cause more harm for people than anything else about it. Courtney unpacks why sexual health is mental health, and how the shame and fear that can come alongside living with herpes and other STIs can manifest in depression and isolation. Courtney also discusses with Jayda communication around sex and intimacy, how to actually bring up conversations around sexual health, and how having foundational conversations about things like STI testing and whatever else, can actually lead to greater intimacy and better sex. Courtney also talks about how he works with men around emotional wellness, and the complexities of encouraging Black men to be vulnerable, and the duality of how opening up can be something beneficial, but when it’s the opposite how they’ve been socialised that can bring up challenges. Lastly, somehow Courtney and Jayda got onto the topic of anime! They both geek out together but actually have a fascinating discussion about how Courtney feels anime is an amazing example of men inspiring emotional openness and navigating emotional hurdles.

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Something Positive for Positive People

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Courtney Brame is an Emotional Wellness Practitioner who runs the non-profit, Something Positive for Positive People, which supports people with herpes through the challenges of stigma. Courtney is also a yoga teacher and podcaster with a special focus on intimacy, and men’s mental and sexual health.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Willow Defebaugh

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 05:00:35 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible queer and climate activist, and co-founder of Atmos, Willow Defebaugh - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Willow Defebaugh

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Transitioning & Deep Ecology with Willow Defebaugh

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:00:32 GMT

Willow shares why she feels the answer to positive change is love and reminding people that we love the earth is a crucial part of fighting climate change. She talks about how love and admiration of nature is at the of her beautiful publication, atmos’ ethos. Willow also shares how the ever changing dynamic of nature gave her strength to transition herself and also shares the ways in which nature is queer. With that, Willow shares how queer activism overlaps with climate activism and how they are both grounded in challenging the status quo, and why she practices spiritual ecology and allow nature’s wisdom to help guide her through life.

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Willow Defebaugh is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Atmos, a climate and culture magazine that tells stories about the environment through a lens of creativity. She is the author of The Overview, a deep ecology newsletter and book. She is a lifelong student of nature and graduated with a degree in creative writing from the University of Michigan. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Teen Vogue,V Magazine, Interview, i-D, BBC, The Guardian, them, New York Magazine, and more. She lives in Brooklyn on unceded Lenape territory.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Michaël Brun

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 05:00:12 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible grammy-winning Haitian producer & DJ, Michaël Brun - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Michaël Brun

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Uplifting Haitian Diaspora with Michaël Brun

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 05:00:17 GMT

In this beautiful conversation, Michaël shares with Jayda his experience of growing up in Haiti and how his Caribbean culture has influenced his music and approach to collaboration. They talk about the importance of creating opportunities for community and connection for the Caribbean diaspora and how important enjoying one’s culture and music is to a sense of self and actualised personal identity. Michaël shares why he founded his event series BAYO and how his love of Haiti and celebrating Haiti culture is both behind the parties he throws but also the important Philanthropy he does, from both supporting Haitian communities impacted by local disasters to investing in local culture and arts. Jayda also talks with Michaël about his journey from studying medicine to quitting and pursuing music full-time and the importance of mentors in supporting your journey to what you are meant for in life. This was such a rich and uplifting conversation!

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BAYO tour

Michaël Brun is a grammy-winning Haitian producer & DJ, with a sound that is heavily Caribbean influenced with a global outlook. he has collaborated with an amazing array of international artists including J Balvin, Becky G, to Oxlade, Mr Eazi, to Lolo Zouaï & John Legend! Michael is also deeply committed to his roots and platforming Haitian and Caribbean artists, and founded the incredible sell-out event series BAYO, which brings together and celebrates the Haitian and Carribean diaspora. What started off as a block party in New York now tours around the world. Michael is also a philanthropist, supporting communities in Haiti and is always using his platform to shine a spotlight on Haitian culture, talent and creativity.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Cosmo Sheldrake

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 05:00:48 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible multi-instrumentalist, producer, composer, live improviser, and field recordist, Cosmo Sheldrake - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Cosmo Sheldrake

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Listening to Nature with Cosmo Sheldrake

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:00:29 GMT

In this episode, Jayda and Cosmo talk about how they interweave their music with their love and fascination with nature. Cosmo also shares his role in campaigning for the publishing rights of nature, for nature to earn from the music it is featured in. We hear Jayda and Cosmo discuss why giving nature legal rights like this is essential in preserving and protecting the living world. Cosmo also shares his thoughts around artists donating parts of their profits and why looking to fungi, appreciating how interconnected we all are, plants and humans, is what gives him a sense of hope.

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Cosmo Sheldrake Website

Cosmo is a UK-based multi-instrumentalist, producer, composer, live improviser, and field recordist. His music ranges widely from celebratory anthems to soulful elegies to riotous party numbers, to sparse electronic production, to haunting polyphonic songs that have grown out of field recordings of birds, whales, fish, frogs, and fungi, and more. Running through all his work is a belief that the living world is a noisy and musical place with the power to change how we think, feel, and imagine. Together with his human and non-human collaborators, Cosmo creates music that speaks to the urgency and possibility of our times. Cosmo has toured internationally with sold-out headline shows across North America, Europe, and Japan. He has composed music for both film and theatre and, in 2015, ran a community choir in Brighton, UK. Cosmo’s song Come Along was featured in a high-profile global Apple commercial, resulting in the track charting at number 39 on the US Digital Songs chart. In 2020, his song Birthday Suit became a top trend on TikTok and currently has over 60 million streams on platforms with over 1 million video uploads using the track. In 2020, he released Wake Up Calls on his label Tardigrade Records, featuring tracks composed entirely from recordings of endangered British birds. In 2023, Cosmo released Wild Wet World, an EP that is an homage to the ocean. His new album, Eye to the Earwill be released in April 2024. See his Linktree for shows, merch, and more.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Stephanie Yeboah

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 05:00:07 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the brilliant content creator, author, presenter, freelance writer, public speaker, plus-size model, and body image and self-love advocate, Stephanie Yeboah, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Stephanie Yeboah

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Unapologetically Fat with Stephanie Yeboah

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 05:00:07 GMT

In this powerful conversation Stephanie shares her journey with body image, body positivity and fat acceptance with Jayda. They share the importance of visibility of marginalised bodies and how seeing people who look like you, directly impacts your relationship with your body, and in turn, your mental health. Stephanie discusses the roots of the body positivity movement, started by Black and fat American women, but how over the years this movement has been co-opted by capitalism and it’s true inclusivity has been lost. Steph shares how embracing the word fat has been her response to reclaiming that power and Jayda and her discuss why having proper plus size fashion options is so important for self actualisation.

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Gratitude Affirmations For The Body

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Stephanie Yeboah Website

Fattily Ever After Book

Steph is a multi-award-winning content creator, author, presenter, freelance writer, public speaker, plus-size model, and body image and self-love advocate, with over 15 years of experience writing and creating content about plus-size fashion, beauty/skincare, travel, lifestyle and pop culture.

In 2020, Steph released her debut non-fiction novel ‘Fattily Ever After: A Fat Black Girl’s Guide to Living Life Unapologetically‘, which became an Amazon bestseller in its first week of publication. In the same year, she became the first British plus-size black woman to grace the cover of Glamour Magazine UK and has featured on the lives of Sky News, BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio London, LBC, ITV News and MTV UK.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Alice Aedy

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 05:00:17 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the brilliant Documentary director, producer and co-founder, Alice Aedy, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Alice Aedy

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Storytelling Activism with Alice Aedy

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 05:00:43 GMT

Jayda meets the dynamic documentary maker Alice Aedy, who specialises in telling stories around the theme of climate crisis and human rights. Alice and Jayda share why making beautiful documentaries is core to engaging people around these themes and Alice talks about why she loves working with female filmmakers and women in general. Alice and Jayda also discuss the imposter syndrome you can feel as a woman starting out and so why they love to champion other women in their fields. Alice talks about how she navigates working with brands and assessing whether they align with her own values, and also why she thinks it’s important to give the platform to more local storytellers, and moving towards more of a producer role and supporting the autonomy of people capturing their own stories, especially in the global south. As well as why Alice thinks building genuine trust between film crews, local filmmakers and then people who’s story they capture is so important, how she approaches building that trust but also why it’s is so hard and such a big responsibility for her as a Western documentarian.

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Earthrise

Earthrise Instagram

Alice Aedy is Co-Founder + CEO of Earthrise, an impact-driven media company for climate pioneering innovative multimedia storytelling. Alice is an award-winning Documentary Director & Producer sharing human stories around climate and social justice.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Tihane

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 05:00:51 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible performance artist, public speaker and creative director Tihane, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Tihane

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Healing through Polynesian Dance with Tihane

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:00:48 GMT

Tihane shares how her Polynesian culture is at the heart of how she connects with body, identity and earth. She and Jayda talk about how dance and using their voice has been a core part of healing their trauma and stepping into self-actualisation. Tihane also shares how drawing on her nomadic ancestors helps give her the strength to find challenges in her own life and speaks to the little known illegal occupation of Hawaii by America.

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Workshops & Coaching

TEDx Talk

TIHANE is a performing artist, public speaker and creative director who focuses on immersive storytelling experiences that combine creative flow, neuroscience and sound meditation tools to awaken and empower authentic self-expression. Tihane cites her Polynesian Croatian background, nomadic upbringing and many years in Kenya, as sources of inspiration in her lifelong intention to cultivate creative experiences that heal divides.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Cherif Khoury

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 05:00:33 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible photographer, producer and director, Cherif Khoury, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Cherif Khoury

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Grassroots Sustainability with Cherif Khoury

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 05:00:40 GMT

Jayda reconnects with Cherif who she met in Senegal filming her Blue Carbon documentary. They talk about the grassroots initiatives happening in Senegal and how community-driven sustainability projects are crucial in our fight against the climate crisis.

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Cherif Khoury Website

Corps Africa

Cherif Khoury is an award winning producer, director and photographer based in Senegal/Dakar. Cherif combines his love for in-country travel and filmmaking, while telling the stories and sharing the perspectives of local communities through video, films, journalistic vignettes, short documentaries and photography. His work especially focuses on capturing local communities taking sustainable approaches to environmentalism.

Cherif consults with international production companies such as Make Waves Media, OffTheFence, WaterBear Network with whom he released his first International film "Mame Coumba Bang" as well as working for CorpsAfrica/Senegal for over six years.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Katie Green

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 05:00:27 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible visual artist Katie Green, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

Katie Green

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Long Lasting Friendships with Katie Green

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 05:00:22 GMT

Jayda is joined by her best friend Katie Green. Revisiting how they met many years back in Vancouver, Jayda and Katie discuss what are the core factors to friendships lasting, as well as how friendships are a huge part of their relationship with hope. Katie also shares how embracing the unknown is the foundation of hope for her and how both making art, and bringing others into the process of creating, has been her most important journey and healer.

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Katie Green Art

Katie Green is a visual artist creating intimate watercolour personas, murals and mask sculptures that embody her exploration of art as a healing process. Katie lives in Mohkínstsis, Calgary, Alberta, Canada and work has been supported by Canada Arts Council, Alberta Foundation for the Arts and she has received various international art residences including the Santa Fe Art Institute and the Vermont Studio Centre. Her murals have featured across the world including Canada, united States, Taiwan and Germany.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Leah Thomas

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 05:00:22 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our first episode with the incredible climate activist Leah Thomas, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

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Intersectional Environmentalism with Leah Thomas

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 05:00:03 GMT

In this episode I talk to Leah all about what intersectional environmentalism is and why environmental activism has to take race and other identities into consideration. We also talk about the importance of community to have hope why Leah started her music gathering Earth Sessions to provide the gathering and faith that people struggle to find if they aren’t religious. We also share our experiences and opinions on social media, when it can be positive and support your sense of hope and when it is detrimental. We also have a fascinating discussion about the intersection of gender, nature and the environment, and how we need to break out of gender binaries to cultivate true environmental awareness, care and action, in all.

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Intersectional Environmentalist

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Earth Sessions

Leah is an environmental author, advocate and creative. She is the author of ‘The Intersectional Environmentalist’ and has contributed articles for Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire, where she explores the dynamic between music, culture, social media and the climate, She has also been named as part of the Forbes 30 under 30 and TIMES 100 lists. Leah is based in Los Angeles where she also hosts her ‘Earth Sessions’ which fuse music, community and environmentalism and advocates for the overlooked relationship between social justice and environmentalism.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Elijah

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 05:00:49 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on this episode with the incredible Creative Consultant, Writer and DJ, Elijah, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

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Staying Curiously Creative with Elijah

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:00:38 GMT

London Grime OG Elijah shares advice on how to stay creative and his secret for overcoming blocks to sharing your art. Elijah and Jayda also discuss whether hope and privilege are connected and finding your own way in music.

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More on our guest:

Make The Ting Album

Butterz Label

Elijah is a Creative Consultant, Writer and DJ with 15 years of experience in the Independent Music and Arts sector in London. He writes about creative work on Instagram with a project called 'Yellow Squares' that has developed into visual installations, an album and a lecture series that has had editions all over the world.

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BONUS - Here’s Thinking x Danni Washington

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:00:59 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on this episode with the incredible Marine Biologist and Educator Danni Washington, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…

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Healing Oceans with Danni Washington

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:00:59 GMT

Marine Biologist and Educator Danni Washington, aka the Black Mermaid, brings us so much hope for the future of our oceans in this uplifting episode. Danni shares powerful advice how everyday people can protect our oceans as well as shares how her own relationship with water gives her the support to face any challenge.

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https://www.instagram.com/bigblueandyou/?hl=en

More on our guest:

Big Blue & You

Danni’s Podcast

Danni’s Brand Mocha Mermaid

Danni Washington is a renowned TV personality and science communicator with 15 years of experience. She made history as the first African-American woman to host a nationally syndicated science series. With a diverse portfolio including "Ocean Invaders" on PBS Nova, "Mission Unstoppable" on CBS, Xploration Nature Knows Best on FOX, and "Strange Evidence" on the Science Channel, she engages audiences in STEM. She hosted the podcast "The Genius Generation" spotlighting young innovators, and she authored "Bold Women In Science," celebrating 15 influential female scientists. As co-founder of nonprofit Big Blue & You, she inspires and educates youth about marine science education through the arts and media. Danni continues to educate the public on the importance of ocean conservation, STEM innovation and environmentalism using mediums that acutely connect: science, arts and media.

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x ALUNA

Fri, 31 May 2024 05:00:30 GMT

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia chat about this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our first episode with the incredible music artist ALUNA, what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…