We have now published all three episodes of our second season of our co-produced podcast, In a Mother’s Mind. Through co-production, members of our podcast group were able to interview experts, asking them the questions they want to hear answers to. For this season, we focused on housing.
In this blog post, Heidi, one of the members of the co-production group, reflects on her podcast journey…
What motivated you to get involved in the podcast project?
The same thing that has motivated me all the time with Pause: I want to make a difference for other women in the same situation as me.
How did you find the collective decision-making process?
It’s enjoyable. I get to hear the experiences of other women, what they have been through and what they want and need to help them and others.
What did you find most daunting? On reflection, do you feel differently now?
Although I am ready to express my opinion and feelings in meetings, the thought of actually being recorded was rather scary. It is a form of public speaking that I have not really had to do before. Now, I feel much more confident about it and very happy that other people have commented positively.
How did you feel after conducting your interview?
It is a strange mix of excitement and relief. I am never quite sure whether I am relieved it is over or I want it to go on for longer, so we can discuss even more points.
What was the impact of being involved in the podcast project? Have you picked up any new skills?
I am severely dyslexic, to the point where I am reluctant to read out loud. Reading is a challenge. But, I will never get the words right if I try just to memorise things, so I am forced to read them out loud. This is still difficult but I am now more confident about it and I feel that I am doing better.
What are your ambitions for the next season?
I suppose, very simply, to do more of the same. To continue to support Pause and other women in similar positions as much as possible. Going back to my first answer, I want to make my voice heard and make a difference. By doing this, I hope to help women to believe in themselves and raise their voices too.
Listen to Heidi in this episode of In a Mother’s Mind…
“The episode quite starkly illustrates a housing system set up to seek blame and stigmatise. I come away thinking more about how complex and easily damaged and damaging the whole housing system is”
Jules Hillier, Chief Executive of Pause.
“I really enjoyed the podcast – it was really impactful and the women spoke about important topics so clearly and confidently!”
Kirsten Archer, Coordinator for Pause Halton & Knowsley.
