Here's Hoping with Jayda G

Jayda shares why she has made the decision to put the Here’s Hoping podcast on pause, sharing what’s going on for her personally and how the amazing guests and lessons of the podcast have helped her make this decision.Hopefully, see you guys again down the line. We appreciate all your support and to everyone who has been a part of the podcast.Goodbye for now and see you later! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing founder of Dope Black Dads and Dope Black Men, platforms amplifying Black voices, Marvyn Harrison - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramMarvyn HarrisonJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jayda and Marvyn sit down to explore themes of parenting, masculinity, protection and relationship anarchy. Marvyn shares his journey from a traditional advertising career to pioneering a platform that challenges generational narratives about black fatherhood. He opens up about the personal struggles of being a dad, the life-changing impact of therapy, and why emotional and psychological safety must be at the heart of all relationships. He talks about how he allows his core values to be his guides as a father and also introduces the concept of relationship anarchy and co-creating the most supportive environment for his children. Marvyn reflects on how inner work helps men build more honest, sustainable partnerships and what that work needs to look like. He also shares his unique co-parenting journey, centring his children’s well-being while nurturing a respectful bond with their mother, and why men must create space for emotional regulation to show up fully as fathers. This episode offers profound, vulnerable insights on dismantling patriarchy, reimagining family dynamics, and prioritizing self-care as a vital act of love.Follow Marvyn HarrisonFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Dope Black DadsDope Black Dads PodcastMarvyn Harrison is a visionary leader known for driving business goals and cultural change through strategy, communication, and people development. He is the founder of Dope Black Dads and Dope Black Men, platforms amplifying Black voices across the UK, US, and Africa. Through his consultancy BELOVD, he has led impactful work with clients like WPP, Footlocker, and News UK. A regular media contributor and author of two children's books with Pan Macmillan, Marvyn is passionate about leadership, equity, and transformation. His upcoming book supports men through personal growth in challenging times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award winning musician and vocalist ALUNA shares with Jayda how she found the courage to pursue singing and how she’s learnt to surround herself with the kind of people that invest in, rather than drain, her energy. Jayda and Aluna share their experiences of being Black women in dance music and how the genre has the capacity to give anyone hope when they need it.Follow AlunaFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest MYCELiUM By AlunaAluna is an award-winning dance music artist, a multi-hyphenate talent, she is a singer, writer, producer, and DJ. Aluna rose to prominence as half of the multi-platinum duo AlunaGeorge, but in 2020 released her first solo album, Renaissance, followe by her second solo album Mycellium last year in 2023 to critical acclaim. Aluna has also worked extensively behind the scenes with the Grammys advising on making music awards more inclusive and diverse. As an artist she advocates for dance music recognising and recentering black artists and black dance music pioneers.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing gender equality activist, writer, facilitator and speaker, Gina Martin - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramGina Martin Jayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode, Gina shares with Jayda how her campaign to criminalize upskirting in the UK launched her into activism. She reflects on how working within the legal system changed her understanding of impact, leading her to shift from a prosecution-based approach to one rooted in community and prevention. Gina speaks openly about why community work gives her hope and offers thoughtful advice on turning despair into action, while recognizing despair as a natural response to today’s world. She also explores the emotional complexity of being both a survivor of male violence and someone who holds deep, loving relationships with men. A must-listen for anyone passionate about gender justice, community impact, and navigating the tension between anger at systemic harm and a desire for healing and connection.Follow Gina MartinFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Gina Martin WebsiteGina Martin booksGina Martin is a multi-award winning gender equality activist, writer, facilitator and speaker who runs workshops on gender for Tomorrow Woman in schools. She is most well known for making upskirting a specific sexual offence in England and Wales (three countries have since followed suit) and changing discriminatory instagram policy. She has an online following of over 250,000+ across platforms where she shares educational content on misogyny, gender and patriarchy and has written three books. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with DJ, producer, vocalist, and radio host, Anna Lunoe - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramAnna LunoeJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Anna Lunoe shares how becoming a mother transformed her life, her career, and her creative process. She speaks candidly about the challenges of performing while pregnant, the uncertainty she felt, the anxiety of being in clubs whilst pregnant, and the unexpected strength she found in both herself and the support of the dance music community. Anna discusses the realities of raising young children while touring, producing music, and hosting radio shows. She offers an intimate look at how motherhood has deepened her perspective, sharpened her focus, and reshaped her sense of purpose. As she reflects on the making of her new album Pearl, Anna explains how parenting taught her to work with more intention, let go of perfection, and say no to what no longer serves her. This conversation is a powerful reminder that motherhood and ambition can coexist and that growth in one area of life can fuel transformation in another.Follow Anna LunoeFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Listen to Pearl by Anna LunoeAnna Lunoe is a DJ, producer, vocalist, and radio host known for her genre-blending sound and magnetic energy behind the decks. Hailing from Sydney, she broke into the international scene with a unique blend of house, techno, and bass, quickly earning spots at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza. As the host of Apple Music’s DanceXL, she champions emerging artists while continuing to release boundary-pushing music of her own. A trailblazer both on and off stage, Anna is also a mother, balancing her creative pursuits with family life and inspiring fans with her authenticity, resilience, and dedication to her craft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing Queer, British-Ghanaian inclusion and wellbeing consultant, Benjy Kusi - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramBenjy KusiJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode which as joyful and entertaining as it is thought provoking. Benji shares insights into his British-Ghanaian heritage, his journey of self-acceptance as a queer individual, and how the tension between his different identities led him to challenge the status quo. Jayda and Benjy discuss the debilitating effects of shame and how overcoming it can lead to living one's best life. Benjy shares the journey of writing his debut book 'Hope This Helps’ and his core message of differentiating between the difference of kindness over niceness, how to sit with the discomfort of acknowledging one’s biases and privileges, and he also shares practical steps to foster hope, for you individually and in community.Follow Benjy KusiFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Hope This Helps by Benjy Kusi Benjy Kusi is a Queer, British-Ghanaian inclusion and wellbeing consultant, based in London. He helps organisations and individuals across the UK and the world create spaces where everyone can thrive and be their best selves. He's also built a community of 240,000+ people on social media, where he produces helpful educational content on topics such as anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and self-care. Additionally, Benjy is the author of "Hope this Helps: How to be Kinder to Yourself and Others" a practical guide to the practice of self-care, empathy, and conscious inclusion that was published in February 2023. His overall mission is to equip and empower people to make a positive difference - in their lives, and the lives of others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with award-winning speaker, writer, and producer, Nova Reid - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramNova ReidJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Nova and Jayda dive into the emotional complexities of shame, racism, healing, and hope. Nova shares how her early experiences with racism in the UK combined with her role in mental health to manifest in her significant work within racial justice. The conversation explores the importance of seeing activists as whole people, the emotional toll of this work, and the role of self care in sustaining change. Nova reflects on writing her bestselling book The Good Ally and shares the impact of her anti racism courses, offering stories of transformation that inspire hope. She unpacks how shame, often hidden beneath behaviors like passive aggression, addiction, or burnout, can block connection and offers ways to work through it with compassion. She also introduces Hidden Histories, her podcast honoring overlooked Black British women whose legacies deserve to be known. This is a heartfelt and insightful episode about resilience, connection, and the power of healing as a foundation for lasting allyship.Follow Nova ReidFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Hidden Histories with Nova ReidThe Good Ally by Nova ReidLinktreeNova Reid is an award-winning speaker, writer, and producer known for her transformative work on anti racism and healing. A TED speaker and author of the bestselling book The Good Ally, she blends her mental health background with activism to drive meaningful change. Nova has written for major publications, worked with global organisations, and created Hidden Histories with Nova Reid, amplifying untold stories of Black British women through courageous conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the former premier league player to now life coach and mentor to young Fulham FC academy players, Matthew Briggs - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramMatthew Briggs Jayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jayda sits down with former professional footballer Matthew Briggs, famously known as the youngest ever Premier League player. Matthew reveals both the extraordinary highs and crushing lows of his career, including injuries, struggles with alcoholism, and mental health battles. He shares his journey from early success to hitting rock bottom, attempting suicide and finding himself working on a construction site. To how he lifted himself out of these depths, how he had the strength to ask for support, reconnect with the simple joy of playing and he found his way back to his sense of self through mentorship and mental health advocacy. Matthew offers an unfiltered look into the world of elite sports, the pressures athletes face, and the importance of mental resilience. Listen to his story of rebuilding his identity, finding new passions, and helping the next generation of footballers navigate their own challenges. Matthew's honest narrative about vulnerability and the power of talking openly about one's struggles makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, mental health, and personal redemption.Follow Matthew BriggsFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Matthew Briggs is a former professional footballer, who made history as the youngest-ever Premier League player when he debuted for Fulham at just 16 years old. However, he went for being speculated as a future England captain to being benched, battling career altering injuries, and spiralling into depression and alcoholism. Matthew went through an unbelievable journey of self, training as a life coach and now mentors young players at Fulham FC’s academy and is a public advocate for mental health in sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the award-winning environmental justice technologist, Author, Speaker and Educator, Jocelyn Longdon - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramJocelyn LongdonJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Jayda and Jocelyn explore the intricate intersections of climate science, social justice, and technology, with Jocelyn offering really interesting perspectives on finding hope for the climate. Joycelyn shares her journey from an unconventional background in astrophysics and journalism to her groundbreaking work in conservation technology. Delving into her platform, Climate in Colour, and her PhD research in bioacoustics, Joycelyn discusses the importance of centring indigenous knowledge and addressing environmental racism. She also unpacks how our perceptions of success are deeply impacted by colonialism and the need to shift towards more inclusive, just frameworks. This episode tackles the nuanced concept of hope within the climate movement, emphasising that hope is a discipline involving stamina and long-term commitment rather than immediate wins. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that offers new perspectives on building a just and hopeful future through community and innovation.Follow Jocelyn LongdonFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guestJocelyn Longdon's websiteJoycelyn is an award-winning environmental justice technologist, communicator, and PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge. She researches conservation tech with forest communities in Ghana, using bioacoustics—like Shazam for nature.She founded Climate in Colour, an inclusive climate education platform, and has worked with the UN, Channel 4, and the Wellcome Collection. A TEDx speaker, she won the 2022 Emerging Designer Medal at the London Design Festival, was featured in British Vogue’s ‘Forces for Change’ issue, and named a 2024 Climate Creator to Watch. Her debut book, Natural Connection, What Indigenous Wisdom and Marginalised People Teach Us About Environmental Action, was published in April 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the trailblaizing DJ, Radio host, label head, podcaster and tastemaker, Jamz Supernova - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramJamz SupernovaJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode explores Jamz's journey in the music industry, her growth as a DJ, and the balance of being a working mother. She shares with Jayda why she’s pausing new releases on her label amid industry changes, and how she uses those moments to pause, learn, and regrow. They discuss the rising impact of live music and why it gives Jayda hope. Jamz also opens up about routines that keep her grounded—like running, working out, and therapy. She offers insights on staying true to yourself, adapting to industry shifts, and the power of travel and cultural immersion in her radio work. Packed with lessons on success, self-care, and embracing evolving roles, this is a must-listen for anyone balancing a career with growth and parenthood.Follow Jamz SupernovaFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Follow Future BounceListen BBC Radio 6 showListen Future Bounce BandcampJamz Supernova is a trailblazing DJ, radio host, label head, podcaster, and tastemaker. For over a decade, her genre-blending selections have broadcast across BBC Radio 1Xtra and BBC 6 Music—where her Saturday show earned Radio Programme of the Year at the 2022 Broadcasting Press Guild Awards and the Gold Best Specialist Music Show at the 2021 ARIAS. She runs Future Bounce, a forward-thinking label that earned a DJ Mag Best of British nomination in 2023, and brings high-energy sets to top festivals like We Out Here, Worldwide Sete, and All Points East. Beyond music, Jamz has hosted podcasts (DIY Handbook, Between The Lines), BBC TV shows, and major events like the Mercury Prize. Whether behind the decks or the mic, she stays rooted in authenticity, using her platform to elevate new voices and connect deeply with her audience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing British-Ghanaian furniture designer, Kusheda Mensah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…Follow us on InstagramKusheda MensahJayda GMia Zur-SzpiroHere's Hoping Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this moving episode, Kusheda shares her experience of having a premature birth with her first son and what supported her and gave her hope whilst her baby was in intensive care for the first weeks of his life. Jayda and Kusheda also talk about what it’s like being working creative mums and the importance of investing in yourself, whilst also appreciating how becoming mothers has expanded their work and purpose on a deeper level. Kusheda shares with Jayda what drew her to designing furniture and how countering loneliness and isolation is a big motivation for her, as well as drawing on her favourite childhood memories of gathering. Jayda learns from Kusheda the big financial risks she took at the start of her career and why for Kusheda, taking chances on, and investing in, your visions and dreams encompasses hope for her. Follow Kusheda MensahFollow Jayda GFollow Here's Hoping PodcastMore on our guest Modular by MensahKusheda Mensah is a British-Ghanaian furniture designer dedicated to the ongoing exploration of idyllic, functional, and playful living environments. Mushers creates pieces that serve as physical remedies for the disconnection often felt in modern society. Through interlocking, modular furniture, her designs celebrate mutuality, human connection, and closeness—both reflecting and drawing inspiration from the human form. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.