Hear ye, Hear ye marra!

Our next guest Marc Goodwin is a Tigger not an Eeyore. He is the Town Crier, the beautiful collision of theatre and tradition. He is also a ninja natural connector who is blindingly brilliant at pulling people together. West Cumbria feels brighter more hope filled when he is about. This fine fella is warm, funny, thoroughly decent, and the role in his hands becomes something bigger, the true embodiment of centuries of tradition with a hint of mischief.

Marc is about to step on stage as King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar. Let me say it plainly, he is as far from a despot as you can imagine. If Herod had Marc’s heart, we would be telling a different story.

This conversation is about family and love. It also touches the tender place of grief, as Marc speaks with care about losing his mum.

Settle in Marra. This one feels very close to home.

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Emma Williamson lived through a childhood witnessing domestic violence, chaos, and addiction. When the challenges came, they weren’t small ones — and it’s true to say, when it’s bad anywhere else, it’s extra bad in West Cumbria. The experience is amplified. When it’s dark here, it’s dark. When it’s light, it’s light.

For every ounce of darkness Emma endured, she’s channelled it back tenfold into light. From her own addiction struggles to that solitary moment where she chose radical change, she has turned pain into power. From not being able to put a full stop in a sentence, to earning a master’s degree, she’s taken bitter beginnings and transformed them into a force for good.

Now, she pours that resilience into making a difference for young people in the care system — living proof that no matter how dark it gets, light can return, and when it does, it shines brighter than ever.

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Rachel Holliday – Firestarter, Problem-Solver, Community Builder

By 20, Rachel Holliday had crammed in more than most people manage in a lifetime – the rough, the raw, and the downright chaotic. Sofa-surfing. Addicted. Homeless. The kind of life that could have gone one way and stayed there.

But Rachel doesn’t do standing still. Motherhood lit the fuse. Family backed her all the way. She’s blasted out of that old life and now she’s pulling others with her – running Calderwood House in Egremont, turning rock bottoms into fresh starts.

She’s unstoppable, unmissable, impossible to ignore – a ball of charisma and drive, whirling through your Spotify feed with a story that’ll have you hooked from the first word.

https://www.ttcwestcumbria.org/donate/

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Originally from the North East, Christine Smeaton made West Cumbria her home at 21. But it wasn’t until her late 60s — facing homelessness and uncertainty — that her most extraordinary chapter began.

When Christine walked through the doors of Calderwood House in Egremont, she wasn’t just seeking shelter. She was choosing a new life.

Now in her late 70s, she’s a self-taught musician, playing multiple instruments, helping refugees, and serving as a trustee for a local charity. Her faith runs deep. Her presence is calm. And her story is a masterclass in courage, reinvention, and hope.

🎙️ This is a story of starting over, standing tall, and shining brightly — no matter what age you are.

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Episode 13 brings us Dianne Richardson – raised in Mirehouse, West Cumbria, a place lacking polish and sophistication but deep in community spirit. Her career path is eclectic - swearing never to work in nuclear Dianne has ventured through many careers - but nothing is wasted - everything repurposed.

West Cumbria once rang with industry – from Marchon’s chemical works to Kangol’s iconic headwear, and the coal mines that powered a nation. But as those employers disappeared, they took thousands of jobs with them. Today, one major employer remains: Sellafield. It supports livelihoods, but it also dominates the landscape.

That’s where Dianne steps in. As CEO of BECBC, she brings together the businesses that orbit the nuclear sector – helping them connect, collaborate, and build a more balanced future.

Dianne’s never been driven by status. Her fuel has been denied value – hers and others’ – and a deep belief in giving back and seeing your neighbour right.

This episode follows her husband, Gerard Richardson, in Episode 12 – a love story in two parts, with the elemental majesty of the West Cumbria as its backdrop .

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In this episode, we shift focus from celebrating the beauty and splendour of West Cumbria to exploring a more serious story—that of Ruth Hasson.

At 17, Ruth entered a controlling and abusive relationship. Her partner’s obsessive behaviour gradually isolated her from friends and family, leaving her vulnerable and alone. The abuse escalated over the years, culminating in a terrifying six-hour assault that brought her to the brink of death. On her 21st birthday—a day coinciding with the passing of Freddie Mercury—Ruth experienced a powerful turning point, inspiring her to seek freedom and reclaim her life.

Now a passionate advocate for survivors of gender-based violence, Ruth shares her story not only to highlight the dangers of coercive control but to offer hope to others facing similar challenges. Her journey from victim to survivor is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the support that communities like West Cumbria can provide.

This episode serves as a poignant reminder that even amidst the charm and beauty of a place, there are untold stories of resilience and courage that deserve to be heard. Join us as Ruth candidly shares her experiences and insights on healing, advocacy, and transformation.

By bringing Ruth’s story to light, we emphasise the importance of acknowledging and supporting the struggles within our community.

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Next on Assa Marra: Darren Joseph Blanks, a visually impaired Army veteran from Egremont, tells his incredible story of running over 850 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats. As the first registered blind person to complete this iconic challenge, Darren smashed out a marathon a day for 28 days, raising over £18,000 for the Visually Impaired Veterans Ski Club.

Joining Darren is none other than Cumbrian hero Gary McKee, who was moved to run alongside him during Darren’s final days in Scotland. Their friendship and determination are what proper Cumbrian grit is all about.

Don’t miss this emotional and inspiring episode—it’s a reet belter!

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Next on Assa Marra: Kris Mathers shares a cracking insight into how AI, especially ChatGPT, helped him bounce back from his darkest days. A few years ago, Kris hit rock bottom—COVID stress, workaholic habits, and obsessive behaviours pushed him to breaking point.

But as an early adopter of AI, Kris discovered how this powerful tech could support recovery, rebuild focus, and spark transformation. His take is sharp, unique, and bound to get you thinking.

Don’t miss this fascinating chat with Kris Mathers on Assa Marra!

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Next on Assa Marra: Jade Carson’s story is a proper belter. She opens up about her journey through bipolar, ADHD, and addiction—chaos, courage, and finally, clarity, after a life-changing intervention from a university lecturer.

With bipolar affecting 1 in 50 people in the UK, and ADHD often tied to addiction, Jade’s tale shows the grit it takes to face life head-on. It’s as raw as a Cumbrian winter, but full of heart and hope.

Don’t be twining—give it a listen!

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In Episode 6 of “Assa Marra,” we chat with David Barnes, a Cumbrian lad who turned his life around through cold water immersion. Four years ago, David was in a bad way—owt of shape, unhappy, and battling the drink. Seeking change, he found solace in the chilly waters of Cumbria’s lakes and the Irish Sea off St Bees. This practice became his salvation, helping him heal early childhood trauma and find balance.

David’s journey is a testament to the power of nature and resilience. His commitment to cold water immersion has not only transformed his own life but has also inspired many in the Cumbrian community to explore this practice for their well-being.

Join us as we explore David’s inspiring journey, the benefits of cold water immersion, and how the natural landscapes of Cumbria have played a pivotal role in his transformation.

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In this episode, we’re diving into tales from the cycle track, fables from the fells, and a few daft adventures along the way. Inspired by my Gobsmacked! Resurgam episode, this instalment celebrates Gary McKee, Cleator Moor’s very own “Marathon Man”, whose legendary feat of running 365 marathons in a year has left an indelible mark on West Cumbria and beyond.

Gary’s story is nothing short of remarkable. From grafting on the cycle track to completing the London Marathon—fuelled by 10 pints and a curry, no less—his journey is full of resilience, humour, and that uniquely Cumbrian grit. Even Jürgen Klopp has taken notice of Gary’s unstoppable spirit and his knack for inspiring others. For John and me, Gary is more than a local hero; he’s a true marra whose story has become a cherished part of our own lives.

This episode isn’t just about miles on the road—it’s about what it means to be Cumbrian: heart, determination, and always finding humour in the challenge. So grab a brew, settle in, and let’s crack on with the tales of a man who’s turned the fells, streets, and cycle tracks into his stage, inspiring everyone lucky enough to know him.

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In this episode of “Assa Marra,” we’re chuffed to welcome Oliver Hodgson, a reet inspiring young entrepreneur from Whitehaven, Cumbria. At just 16, Oliver left school and, undeterred by traditional paths, founded Platinum Live, a creative communications agency that’s gone from strength to strength. Now in his early 20s, he’s garnered national recognition, including being named the North West’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

Oliver’s approach is as unique as a Herdwick on a fell, refusing to let a “one size fits all” mentality dictate his work. His success story offers a compelling glimpse into the Gen Z mindset, showcasing how fire, grit, graft, and innovation can lead to remarkable achievements, even when the traditional route doesn’t fit.

Tune in for a crackin’ conversation that sheds light on the future of business through the eyes of a true Cumbrian trailblazer.

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In Episode 3 of “Assa Marra,” I'm absolutely thrilled to chat with Richard Askwith, the acclaimed author behind Feet in the Clouds. This book dives deep into the exhilarating world of fell running, capturing the essence of the sport, its challenges as well as its hero’s .

Touching on the Bob Graham Round—a legendary fell running challenge in the Lake District - this gruelling 66-mile circuit over 42 peaks, with an ascent of 26,900 feet, was first completed by Bob Graham in 1932 and has since become a bucket-list achievement for endurance runners and the nemesis of Richard.

We’ll also delve into the rugged beauty of Cumbria, whose dramatic landscapes have inspired countless adventurers and writers alike. It’s a reet good listen, marra!

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Welcome to Episode 2 of Assa Marra, where we’re celebrating two proper West Cumbrian legends—Gary McKee, the ‘Marathon Man’ from Cleator Moor who ran 365 marathons in a year, and Gary Graham, better known as Gary Mankini, originally from Whitehaven.

Gary McKee’s graft and determination have inspired folk round here, while Gary Mankini brings a bit of craic and daftness with his antics, including his now-famous mankini. He’s the sort of bloke who can mek anyone smile and always has time for his marras.

These two couldn’t be more different, but they’re both grand examples of what makes West Cumbria so special—hard work, a good laugh, and a heart as big as the fells. So let’s get stuck in and celebrate two blokes who’ve left their mark on this corner of the world in their own unique ways.

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