We Built This City: Greater Manchester

“It’s an amazing opportunity for Manchester United and the region” Collette Roche is the Chief Operating Officer of Manchester United, the first woman ever to hold that role at the club. Along the way, she’s had to navigate male-dominated environments; hold tough conversations, and lead with clarity and empathy since she was 21 years old.Collette’s story isn’t just about football. She’s played key roles in some of Manchester’s most important institutions; from Manchester Airport Group and Manchester Metropolitan University to JW Lees,  The Northern Powerhouse Partnership, UA92 and The Manchester United Foundation.Host Lisa Morton hears about Collette’s journey from working-class roots in Haydock, to leading one of the most renowned football clubs in the world.  Collette’s been a steady hand through years of change, during which she’s seen five managers come and go.  She’s now at the heart of one of the most ambitious projects in the club’s history: a planned new stadium for the club and an ambitious regeneration programme for Old Trafford which will leave a lasting impact on Greater Manchester as well as its fans.From working-class roots in Haydock to leading one of the most renowned football clubs in the world, Collette’s story is one leading with purpose and integrity.Part of this conversation was recorded live at Business Desk’s The Business of Greater Manchester Conference, and it captures how Collette is helping to build not just a new stadium, but a stronger Manchester for generations to come.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

How has the ‘Cream of Manchester’ been “pulled” back to the city?Will Lees-Jones is the Managing Director of JW Lees, a seventh-generation family brewery and pub business with pubs all across the North West.Will caught up with Lisa Morton to share the news about the exciting return of Boddingtons to Manchester and other pubs near you. They discuss what it means to bring back an icon to the city; Will’s hopes for the future of brewing in Manchester, and whether or not he’s had a call from iconic “Boddies Girl” Melanie Sykes.You also get a chance to hear Will’s conversation with Will from 2022, when they reflected on leading a business through the Covid pandemic, and the values that help keep JW Lees pubs resilient.In that conversation, Will talked about championing local communities through initiatives like Mahdlo Youth Zone in Oldham and Forever Manchester, and why he believed pubs remain at the heart of social life.From steering a historic family business through challenging times to shaping Manchester’s next chapter with a truly iconic beer, Will’s commitment to tradition, community, and to championing the culture that surrounds the local remains unparalleled.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester; across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with TomVia LinkedInConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"It's all about connecting people and place to opportunity."Tom Stannard is the Chief Executive of Manchester City Council. A proud public servant, he began his career in London, but his journey in the North West has been a tale of two cities. Tom left Salford four months ago to start his new role in Manchester.Find out how Tom leads with a community first mindset; humility, purpose and humour, including a commitment to staying grounded, even if that means posing for a photo next to some fly-tipping!In this episode, Lisa Morton explores what it means to lead a global city with local people at its heart. Tom shares how his experiences in Salford have shaped his approach to inclusive regeneration, why he believes that listening to community voices is key to effective policymaking, and how his family values have influenced his leadership journey. From site visits in Miles Platting to gigs in Co-op Live, Tom proves that civic leadership can have both steel and soul.You’ll hear how regeneration can serve every part of a city, not just its centre and what Tom and his team have planned for Greater Manchester in the next 10 years. This is a conversation about building a fairer Manchester, one that’s ambitious, inclusive, and connected to the people who call it home.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester; across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with TomVia LinkedInConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

What does it take to power a greener future for Manchester?Amer Gaffar is the Director of the Manchester Fuel Cell Innovation Centre at Manchester Metropolitan University,  a research hub developing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, which will support Greater Manchester's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2038.Lisa and Amer discuss exactly what a ‘fuel cell’ is and how hydrogen can power Manchester's next revolution; a green revolution. You’ll hear Lisa uncover Amer’s vision for a cleaner, fairer city and how leading Manchester institutions are fueling that transition faster than any other city. Amer talks about why he believes collaboration is key to tackling the climate crisis and how Manchester Met along with Manchester’s combined authority are helping to get the city region to the goal of Net Zero together.Amer reflects on the need to make sustainability accessible to all and this conversation is a great reminder of how local action can drive global change, he’s keen on bringing people with him and powering Greater Manchester’s green revolution through knowledge, people and their skills. From working with businesses on green innovation to helping shape Manchester’s net zero ambitions, Amer is determined to ensure the city doesn't just adapt to the future—it leads it.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with  AmerVia LinkedInVia Manchester MetConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

In this special episode, Lisa Morton revisits one of the most powerful conversations from the podcast to date — her 2022 interview with Figen Murray OBE.Figen practises kindness and teaches resilience in an effort to build a safer, more united society — one rooted in trust, respect, and compassion. After losing her son Martyn Hett in the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, she gave up her career as a therapist to study counter-terrorism and speak to young people about the dangers of online radicalisation.Originally recorded ahead of the fifth anniversary of the attack, Figen shares a deeply personal account of that harrowing night and the difficult months that followed. She reflects on the power of forgiveness, the need to understand those who’ve been led astray, and how small, everyday acts of kindness can have a monumental impact on our communities.Now, in 2025 Figen has had a very busy 3 years and she tells Lisa about the journey she’s made since that first conversation — including the landmark achievement of Martyn’s Law receiving Royal Assent, you’ll hear what that means for everyone going to live events in the future and how the legislation will keep the public safe.She speaks powerfully about the need for improved security at public venues, what it’s really like to work with government, raise public awareness, and ensure that no other family has to endure the same pain. This episode is a moving reminder of the enduring legacy of Martyn Hett and how the spirit of Manchester continues to drive unity, resilience, and change.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"Peace is an ongoing journey; it never ends."What motivates somebody to tackle Manchester’s biggest problems?Professor Erinma Bell MBE joins host Lisa Morton to share what drove her to create change at a time when the city region was being called ‘Gunchester’ and the values that have kept her on that mission for the past 25 years.Erinma is a peace activist, community leader, and councillor for Manchester City Council.In the late 1990s, Erinma was part of a community group in Moss Side that was intent on making a change. But when her friend was shot in front of her, she knew that change needed to happen faster.From grassroots activism to national recognition, Erinma went on to help set up Carisma, a conflict resolution and community cohesion charity leading initiatives that courageously tackle the pressing issues of gun and gang crime. Erinma shares her personal reflections on the significance of family values, the strength of community support, and the essential need for young people to feel a genuine sense of belonging in their environments. Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination, reminding us all of the power of activism in the face of adversity.You’ll hear Lisa delve into Erinma’s commitment to creating a safer environment for the next generation, the ongoing pursuit of peace in Manchester’s communities and the vital role you can play in creating a brighter future for the next generation.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with  Erinma Via her websiteVia LinkedInConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"If you want something, you can't sit there and wait for someone to put it in your hand for you."In this episode, Lisa sat down with Victoria Braddock, the Managing Director of Marketing Manchester, Lisa heard how she and her team are putting Manchester’s brand on the global stage. Victoria shares what it was like growing up in Manchester, offering ‘backies’ into town on her brother's bike as a kid, her career journey from Wimpy burger as a teenager to joining ‘Marketing Manchester’ over 20 years ago, find out what has made her ambitious to stay!From major international campaigns to the power of local stories, Victoria reveals what she’s learnt from positioning Manchester as a must-visit destination for tourists, businesses, and investors alike. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or a proud Mancunian, this episode will give you an insider’s look at how strategic storytelling fuels the city’s growth. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Victoria:On LinkedInOn Marketing Manchester's LinkedInVia Marketing Mancheter's WebsiteConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"We always look out for each other in Manchester,  no matter what."Five years ago Lisa Morton launched the ‘We Built This City’ podcast in an aim to connect with born, bred and adopted Mancunians who have helped to shape this city region, not just with bricks and mortar but with their impact too. It’s impossible to reflect back on that time without acknowledging the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on Greater Manchester and the world, so in this episode, you’ll hear Lisa reconnect with early guests to explore the lasting effects on the community, business and hospitality sector. From innovative adaptations in the restaurant industry to the resilience of local businesses, how did Mancunians support each other at the time, and how has the city region recovered, grown and adapted? This episode captures the spirit of Manchester and its people during challenging times. Join Lisa as she celebrates five years of the podcast and shares the stories and values that emerged from adversity.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

"Legacy isn't about monuments or headlines. It's about impact."Join Lisa Morton in a reflective episode of "We Built This City" as she delves into the themes of values and legacy. This special episode revisits conversations with some of the guests who have joined Lisa on  “We Built This City” over the past year, including Gethen Jones and Julie Hesmondhalgh. Learn how Manchester's unique character shapes their sense of purpose and legacy. You’ll hear stories of community support, creativity and collaboration and Lisa speaks to the importance of leaving a lasting impact. As 2024 comes to a close let’s celebrate the resilience, creativity, and collective spirit that defines Greater Manchester.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

Gethin Jones shares his morning with the nation right from Manchester City centre. In this episode, you’ll hear how Gethin’s Welsh roots have been entwined with Manchester since the late 90’s first coming here as a student.You’ll learn how Gethin has been immersing himself in the community here for the past few years through his work both on-screen and off, as he’s settled in Greater Manchester.Lisa and Gethin discuss his unplanned foray into TV presenting, starting his career in double denim and how he’s always aiming to make his Dad proud. And Gethin reflects on the impact he wants to make and shares the unique tool he used to figure out the legacy he wants to leave. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Gethin On InstagramMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

“Everything we do is all about relationships”We Built This City host Lisa Morton isn't the one asking the questions this week, she shares with you her conversation on the  3:00AM Conversations podcast from international Law firm Hill Dickinson.Hosts Peter Jackson and Anjon Mallik hear how Lisa made her way as a young female entrepreneur in the 1990’s, to become a leader in communications in Manchester.  They uncover how, inspired by James Kerr’s “Legacy”, Lisa and her team developed a business that’s committed to its values, purpose and legacy. They learn about Lisa’s resilience, her fight against perfectionism, and the values she and her team live by that drive business success.’Click here to follow and listen to more 3:00AM ConversationsMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

Remembering the legacy left by Sir Howard BernsteinThis week Lisa attended the memorial for Sir Howard Bernstein, impacted by the emotions, tributes shared and lasting values. She wanted to re-share with you their conversation on the podcast. As the Chief Executive of Manchester City Council for nearly 20 years, Sir Howard was instrumental in getting the city back on its feet after the IRA bomb in 1996. He then carried on his regeneration mission for almost two decades, galvanising public and private partnerships, changing the skyline and creating new communities in addition to bringing The Commonwealth Games to Manchester.In their conversation recorded in the 2020 lockdown, Lisa Morton found out how you rebuild a city and the values that drove Sir Howard to grow the community. Sir Howard also shared some warm words of advice and support for Greater Manchester as the city region was rebuilt after the pandemic.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

"Manchester is just a place of opportunity, whatever it is that you do."Nicola Marsh is a born and bred Salfordian and Managing Director of Essence Mediacom North.Nicola created a career for herself in digital advertising in the early days of the internet, you’ll hear about how she continues to navigate this constantly evolving media landscape, and her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion at Essence Mediacom.In this episode, host Lisa Morton hears how Nicola went from driving around Salford selling newspaper adverts and drinking brews with her clients, to creating a place for local talent to thrive, whilst shaking up the digital advertising world.Nicola reflects on what Manchester's vibrant nightlife has meant to her over the years, Manchester's unique sense of community, and opportunities and she speaks to how businesses can contribute to Greater Manchester’s growth. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Nicola and Essence Media Com NorthOn LinkedInOn InstagramMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

"The whole point about building a city is it isn’t one person’s project.”Colin Shenton is the founder and CEO of Shenton Group, a property company he started in Manchester in the late 1980s, when the city looked and worked very differently. You’ll hear about the deal Colin made the very beginning of his career, and how he handled the restoration of a heritage building aged just 21.Colin shares with Lisa his passion for revitalising some of Manchester’s oldest buildings, blending the old with the new adding to Manchester's unique architectural charm.This episode delivers captivating stories, about buildings that are instantly recognisable parts of Manchester’s skyline and streets, as well as parts of the city you may have never known were there. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with ColinOn InstagramOn LinkedInMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

“This is my city now till I die. I absolutely love it."You will probably know Julie Hesmondhalgh as the legendary actor who took on the much-loved role of trans character Hayley Cropper on ITV’s Coronation Street. Julie and host Lisa Morton discuss everything from Julie’s beginnings in Accrington; how she became one of the UK's most cherished performers and how Manchester has now become ‘her city’. You’ll hear about Julie’s deep involvement in local theatre in Greater Manchester, including her key role in the efforts to save Oldham Coliseum theatre from closing forever.This is a heartwarming conversation about the transformative power of the arts, the importance of activism, and the strength of community.Julie speaks about the 500 Acts of Kindness project she set up for Greater Mancunians who need them. Click the link above to join the Facebook page and learn how you can help.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Julie On XOn InstagramMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

"There's a culture of creativity in our city”Dave Moutrey has been an integral part of Manchester’s arts and cultural scene since the 1980’s. He sits down with host Lisa Morton to discuss his journey to becoming a cornerstone of creativity in the city.  Lisa hears about Dave’s formative years, where the sparks of his passion for the arts were ignited during memorable trips to London. It was punk that inspired Dave to move to Manchester, a city that would become his canvas for creativity.In this episode, you’ll hear how he played a pivotal role in establishing the cooperative ‘Arts About Manchester’; how he ran the iconic ‘Corner House’, and led the £25 million move to Manchester’s arts centre HOME. Dave tells Lisa about his current work in shaping Manchester's new cultural strategy and together they delve into the significance of creativity, community, and collaboration in making Manchester a cultural hotspot for years to come.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Dave Via InstagramVia LinkedInMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

"What ​I ​love ​about ​Manchester, is ​it's ​constantly ​evolving”Seema Malhotra combines glitz, glamour and proper manc graft.On this episode of ‘We Built This City’ host Lisa Morton is joined by the co-founder of fashion brand ‘Forever Unique’ and star of the reality show ‘The Real Housewives of Cheshire’. Seema candidly shares her experiences of juggling cultural and family expectations whilst trying to find her own identity in Manchester in the 90’s. You’ll hear what it was like to establish a clothing brand in the textile quarter of the City and how Seema and her husband worked tirelessly to take it to the heights of the Fashion industry, and ultimately what it was like closing the doors on that brand after 30 years.They also touch on her unwavering passion for Manchester United and why Roy Keane holds a special place in Seema’s heart.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with SeemaOn Instagram On XMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

‘Girls ​like ​me, ​​they ​just ​don't ​do ​history.’Dr Michala Hulme is a genealogist and broadcaster connecting people with their family history. In this episode, you’ll learn about the real people from Greater Manchester’s past and how they lived their lives. Michala has an incredible talent for uncovering family trees, and her mission is to make history accessible and engaging for everyone. Host Lisa Morton chats to Michala about her particular interest in the Victorian era of Manchester, her early interest in family history and the obstacles she faced and overcame in her educational pursuits and early career. You’ll also learn about the unique experiences she had working on the doors of Manchester nightclubs in the 1990s whilst studying history. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Michala Via her website On LinkedInMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

"The whole city centre's my playground."Take a stroll through Manchester's rich history and it’s vibrant present with Jonathan Schofield, a born and bred Mancunian. From its industrial roots to its modern-day resurgence, Jonathan shares intriguing stories and quotes that capture the essence of Greater Manchester's spirit. Tour Guide and Editor-at-large of ‘Manchester Confidentials’ Jonathan Schofield uncovers forgotten facts of Greater Manchester, shares his favourite hidden gems of the city region and how to keep people looking back in a city that is rapidly moving forward. In this episode, you’ll discover alongside host Lisa Morton how the city reigon has evolved over the years, the importance of keeping the stories of Greater Manchester’s places and people alive, don't miss this engaging walk through time and place!------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Johnathan Via his websiteOn XVia Manchester ConfidentialsMentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met

Matty is a long-time Manchester resident with an intriguing journey, over his 25 years in the city region he’s become a well-known figure in Manchester's food and drink scene, you may have seen his videos with Manchester’s Finest exploring some of Mnachester’s best food and drink venues.In this episode hear how Maty went from bartending across Manchester to broadcasting to the region, and what it was like to take on the role of live TV presenter when he landed a gig on Channel 4’s ‘Steph’s Packed Lunch’. This episode is not just about professional achievements but also about the power of resilience and the importance of finding your community. Matty opens up to Lisa about the profound impact of learning about his biological father as well as overcoming homelessness as a teen.  These experiences have significantly shaped his perspective on life, raising his own children and led him to help others experiencing homelessness in Manchester through the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity.Join host Lisa Morton for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the food and drink culture of Manchester.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family’ and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Charity Bus Pull - 22nd August Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with MattyOn InstagramOn XOn YouTubeOn LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: We Built This City's partnership with Manchester Metropolitan UniversityOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit https://www.mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.Manchester Met