🎙️ In this episode of Diverse Talk Matters, host Natasha Broomfield-Reid sits down with Sandra Pollock OBE to explore the realities of women’s equality and the impact of the Women’s Awards, now celebrating its 10th year.

Sandra, a leadership specialist and founder of the Women’s Awards, reflects on her lifelong commitment to gender equality, from noticing stereotypes in childhood to challenging workplace inequities throughout her career. She shares how the Awards became her “protest”, a platform to recognise high-achieving women across all sectors and communities.

Together, Natasha and Sandra discuss:

- The origins and growth of the Women’s Awards over the past decade
- How recognition boosts women’s confidence, careers, and businesses
- The importance of visibility and role models in breaking stereotypes
- Progress in workplace conversations around menopause, menstruation, and baby loss
- Ongoing challenges, including regressive attitudes and systemic barriers

This episode is an inspiring and candid conversation about resilience, recognition, and the power of women supporting women.

Whether you’re a leader, ally, or advocate, you’ll find encouragement in their stories and a call to action to keep pushing for equality.

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In episode of Diverse Talk Matters, host Natasha Broomfield-Reed sits down with Richard Wade and Luise Usiskin to explore the realities of LGB parenting in the UK. Richard, a freelance musician and father of two adopted boys, shares his journey through adoption and co-parenting.

Louise, an equality, diversity and inclusion consultant, reflects on her experience navigating IVF as a lesbian couple and the systemic barriers she and her wife faced.

Together, they discuss:

- The evolution of adoption rights for same-sex couples
- Navigating IVF and healthcare systems built on heterosexual models
- Everyday assumptions, stereotypes, and microaggressions faced by LGB parents
- The importance of inclusive schools, supportive communities, and representation
- How confidence, resilience, and networks help families thrive

This episode is a candid, insightful, and often humorous conversation about parenting, equality, and the ongoing need to challenge outdated systems.

Whether you’re a parent, ally, or advocate, you’ll find inspiration in their stories of love, perseverance, and inclusion.

You can also watch this podcast on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLP_SauivNQ

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

Or connect with us on social media

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Thank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.

Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.

In this episode, Tash speaks with activist and equality advocate Natasha Johnson, co-founder of All Black Lives UK and EDI lead at St Basil’s Youth Homelessness Charity.

Natasha reflects on the youth-led protests of 2020 following George Floyd’s murder and shares how she and her peers mobilised thousands across the UK to demand justice and systemic change.

They explore:

- The ongoing realities of racism and discrimination in 2026
- The difference between being “not racist” and actively anti-racist
- Performative allyship vs meaningful action
- Intersectional challenges facing young people experiencing homelessness, immigration barriers, and racial trauma
- Why bravery and collective action are essential to dismantling systemic inequality

This episode is a candid, thought-provoking conversation about why Black Lives still matter, the importance of sustained activism, and the urgent need for allies to move beyond words into action.

🔗 You can also access the audio via our website homepage or watch on our YouTube Channel – and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes tackling diversity, equity, and inclusion.

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

Or connect with us on social media

Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram

Thank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.

Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.