In this special bonus episode, we take a moment to reflect on the journey so far, five seasons, twenty episodes, and countless powerful stories shared through the Invisible Cities Talks podcast. Join us as we look back at the themes we've explored, from homelessness and mental health to community-led tourism and impactful partnerships across Europe and Manchester. We celebrate the voices of our guides, our incredible guests, and you, our listeners for supporting this project every step of the...
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In this special bonus episode, we take a moment to reflect on the journey so far, five seasons, twenty episodes, and countless powerful stories shared through the Invisible Cities Talks podcast. Join us as we look back at the themes we've explored, from homelessness and mental health to community-led tourism and impactful partnerships across Europe and Manchester. We celebrate the voices of our guides, our incredible guests, and you, our listeners for supporting this project every step of the...
In this special bonus episode, we take a moment to reflect on the journey so far, five seasons, twenty episodes, and countless powerful stories shared through the Invisible Cities Talks podcast. Join us as we look back at the themes we've explored, from homelessness and mental health to community-led tourism and impactful partnerships across Europe and Manchester. We celebrate the voices of our guides, our incredible guests, and you, our listeners for supporting this project every step of the...
In this emotional and inspiring final episode of our Together in Manchester season, we sit down with Risha Lancaster, co-founder of Coffee4Craig, a Manchester-based charity supporting people experiencing homelessness with compassion and dignity. Co-hosted by our Manchester guide Nick, this conversation explores how Coffee4Craig began as a tribute to Risha’s brother Craig and grew into a seven-day-a-week lifeline for so many. Risha shares the challenges they face, the vital importance of partn...
In this episode of Invisible Cities Talks, part of our Together in Manchester season, we sit down with Kristen MacGregor-Houlston, Head of Brand Partnerships at The Manc, a bold and widely-loved media platform dedicated to showcasing the real voices of the city. Hosted by our Manchester guide Nick, this episode explores The Manc’s journey from humble beginnings as a meme page to becoming a trusted local voice reaching millions across the North. Kristen shares how the platform balances commerc...
In this episode of Invisible Cities Talks, we’re joined by Niall Fitzmaurice, Hotel Manager at Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central and the incredible host of our Manchester recording base for this season. Alongside our Manchester guides Andy and Stephen, we dive into the world of hospitality: what it means to create a home away from home, why people are at the core of every great hotel experience, and how one smile at reception can make all the difference. Niall shares his journey through the i...
In this episode of Invisible Cities Talks, we kick off our special Manchester season with a powerful conversation featuring Darren from Timpson, one of the UK’s most inspiring employers of people with convictions. Joined by our Manchester guides Andy and Stephen as co-hosts, we explore how Timpson’s inclusive hiring practices are transforming lives. Darren shares how a chance encounter in a prison over 20 years ago sparked a long-term commitment to second chances, and how their approach, root...
Welcome to Episode 4 of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe. In this episode, we’re joined by Tom from Secret Street Tours, a social enterprise based in Dublin, Ireland, that offers walking tours led by individuals who have experienced homelessness. These tours provide a unique and powerful perspective on the city, blending personal stories with local history to challenge stereotypes and foster understanding. Our host, Michaela, is joined by Glasgow guid...
Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe. In this episode, we’re joined by Salome from querstadtein, a Berlin-based social enterprise that invites people to experience the city through the eyes of those who have faced homelessness, migration, or other social challenges. By leading guided tours, querstadtein’s storytellers share their lived experiences, challenge stereotypes, and foster understanding and dialogue within the community. O...
Welcome to Episode 2 of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe. In this episode, we’re joined by Rasmus from Gadens Stemmer, a Danish social enterprise dedicated to creating meaningful employment for individuals who have faced homelessness, addiction, or social vulnerability. Operating across five cities in Denmark, Gadens Stemmer offers guided tours led by people with lived experience, providing a unique and powerful perspective on life on the margins of s...
Welcome to the opening episode of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe. In this episode, we are joined by Teresa from Pragulic, a social enterprise based in Prague, Czech Republic, that uses tourism to challenge public perceptions of homelessness. Pragulic trains and supports individuals with lived experience of homelessness to become tour guides, offering unique city tours that foster empathy, awareness, and social change. Discover how Pragulic was found...
Join us in the season finale of 'Invisible Cities Talks' Season 3, titled 'Responsible Tourism.' In this insightful episode, Michaela, alongside Edinburgh guide Sonny, welcomes Carron from the Scottish Community Tourism Network. Together, they delve into the principles and practices of responsible tourism, exploring how this approach benefits local communities, preserves cultural heritage, and supports sustainable economic growth. Carron shares innovative strategies and real-world examples of...
Join us for an enlightening conversation in the third episode of Season 3, 'Challenges in Tourism,' featuring Joe from Euan's Guide and our guide, Sonny, from Edinburgh. This episode dives into the essential topic of accessibility in tourism. Joe shares his expertise on the barriers that disabled travelers face and discusses innovative solutions that are making travel experiences more inclusive. Discover the impactful strategies that Euan's Guide has implemented to enhance accessibility in to...
Join our chat with Charlotte from Axiom Hospitality in this enlightening episode of 'Invisible Cities Talks.' Explore how strategic partnerships between the hospitality industry and social enterprises are reshaping tourism. Learn how these collaborations enhance community engagement, offer enriching visitor experiences, and integrate social responsibility into the core of business operations. Discover the transformative power of responsible tourism and its potential to benefit both local comm...
Welcome to the opening episode of Season 3 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled 'Community and Tourism.' In this episode, we're joined by Peter from CruiseForth, who shares insights into how his initiative bridges the gap between tourism and community engagement. Discover the origins and evolution of CruiseForth, the critical role of volunteers in enhancing the visitor experience, and the positive impacts on local businesses and cultural appreciation. Learn how strategic partnerships and dedicat...
Join us for the final episode of Season 2 on Mental Health Awareness, where we dive into the topic of menopause awareness with Dana, a menopause coach and expert. Hosted by Michaela and co-hosted by Silvana, our tour guide from Glasgow, this episode explores the significant impact of menopause on mental and physical health. Dana shares expert insights into understanding the symptoms, societal perceptions, and the critical support systems necessary for those experiencing menopause. Discover ho...
Join us in Episode 3 of Season 2 on 'Invisible Cities Talks' as we delve into the personal and profound mental health journey of Wendy, a participant of our Meet Me in Govan project. In this episode, Wendy shares her experiences with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of her path toward recovery. Through her story, we explore the vital roles of early intervention, therapeutic activities, and robust community support in navigating mental health issues. Wend...
Join us in this insightful episode of 'Invisible Cities Talks,' where we explore the transformative power of hypnotherapy in mental health care. Our guest, Paulina, a hypnotherapist, sheds light on how hypnosis can be a vital tool for healing and personal growth. Dive into the differences between hypnosis and hypnotherapy, discover the therapeutic benefits for conditions such as anxiety and depression, and hear real-life success stories from those who have found solace and recovery through he...
In this opening episode of 'Invisible Cities Talks' mental health season, we delve into the pervasive issue of mental health stigma, especially as it impacts those experiencing homelessness. Join us as we talk with Tony from Thriving Survivors, who shares his insights on the common misconceptions surrounding mental health and the significant barriers these create for homeless individuals. Through this discussion, we aim to uncover the truth behind the stigma, explore effective ways to combat ...
In the final episode of Season 1 on 'Invisible Cities Talks,' we delve into the vital role of community partnerships in addressing homelessness. Joined by David from 20 Schemes, we explore how their initiatives are creating positive changes within Glasgow's neighbourhoods. David shares insights into the collaborative efforts between 20 Schemes and local organisations like Street Connect, which collectively work to provide direct support and foster empowerment among those facing homelessness. ...
Explore groundbreaking strategies to combat homelessness in this episode of 'Invisible Cities Talks.' We're joined by Barbara from Social Bite, who shares how their unique 'pay-it-forward' system and the pioneering Social Bite Village are making significant impacts. Barbara discusses the inception of these initiatives, their development, and the profound effect they have on the community. Tune in to learn about the innovative approaches that are transforming the way we address homelessness an...
In this powerful episode of 'Invisible Cities Talks,' we delve into the complex factors that lead to homelessness. Joined by Christian from Simon Community Scotland, we explore the systemic and societal issues contributing to this pervasive problem. Christian shares his insights from the front lines, discussing how various elements such as economic instability, policy shortcomings, and social challenges interplay to affect individuals facing homelessness. Tune in to gain a deeper understandin...
In this special bonus episode, we take a moment to reflect on the journey so far, five seasons, twenty episodes, and countless powerful stories shared through the Invisible Cities Talks podcast. Join us as we look back at the themes we've explored, from homelessness and mental health to community-led tourism and impactful partnerships across Europe and Manchester. We celebrate the voices of our guides, our incredible guests, and you, our listeners for supporting this project every step of the...
