Claim OwnershipOxford Brookes Unscripted
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© The Public Engagement Network, Oxford Brookes University
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This podcast series from the Public Engagement Network (PEN) at Oxford Brookes University is a platform for academics, across all faculties, to informally share, discuss and contemplate their research with the wider community
60 Episodes
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What do today’s students really want from their future careers - and how well are employers and universities responding? In this episode, we dive into the findings of the Sustainability and Early Careers UK 2025 report, exploring the growing demand for purpose-driven work, the gaps between student expectations and employer offerings, and what needs to change to connect young people with meaningful, sustainable careers.
In this episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted, we sit down with Dr. Marion Waite, Professor Vanessa Heaslip, and Dr. Louise Stayt to explore the ethical and human dimensions of digital nursing. At the frontline of digital transformation, our guests reflect on identity, inclusion, and the evolving role of technology in care. From the impact of social media on professional identity to the risks of excluding vulnerable populations in digital service design, the episode unpacks how nurses navigate a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Drawing on their co-authored book chapter, the team calls for more inclusive, ethical, and user-informed approaches to digital innovation. Their message is clear: one size does not fit all, and nurses must have a seat at the digital table.
In this episode, we dive into Dr Jackie Clarke and Dr David Bowen's recent and award winning (Winner of the Elsevier Award for Best Paper Award, Journal of Destination Marketing & Management.) paper on repeat tourists and the formation of familiar places. We'll explore the concepts of conversion, inheritance, and discovery in destination marketing, revealing how repeat visits shape our travel experiences. Join us for a fascinating discussion on the dynamics of tourism and the creation of cherished travel destinations. With special thanks to The British Academy and Leverhulme Trust for supporting this research study through the Small Research Grant Scheme. You can explore Jackie’s wider work on her staff profile: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/jackie-clarke
In this special episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted, we speak with Erkin Kurtoglu – a former co-host of this very podcast – whose PhD research explores how artists navigate regeneration, gentrification, and displacement in the post-industrial city. Drawing on in-depth analysis and immersive fieldwork, Erkin introduces us to two London neighbourhoods at different stages of transformation, unpacking what he calls the Artists’ Feedback Loop and his newly coined concept of passive artwashing. We explore how artists are often the first to settle in abandoned industrial spaces, inadvertently driving up cultural capital – and eventually, rents. But when the regeneration machine moves in, these same artists are displaced. Erkin highlights the difference between council estate regeneration and post-industrial contexts, offering a new framework rooted in stakeholder collaboration and grassroots activism. If you're interested in urban sociology or gentrification studies, this episode offers a compelling deep dive into the tensions and possibilities shaping the transformation of post-industrial neighbourhoods. To find out more about his research, visit Erkin’s profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erkin-kurtoglu/
In this episode, we speak with Dr Bryan Tang, Educational Projects Manager at Think Through Nutrition and KTP Associate at Oxford Brookes University, about the critical role of nutrition in prisons. Bryan shares insights from TTN, OBU and Ministry of Justice nutrition pilot, which uses LANAH – a virtual nutrition education platform – to support healthier eating and better rehabilitation outcomes behind bars. We explore the barriers to better prison food, the challenges of driving change in the system, and why this work is changing how we think about food, health, and hope in the justice system. You can explore more about this project at: https://thinkthroughnutrition.org
Oxford Brookes PhD Student in Psychology, Shannon Skeffington and her project supervisor Dr Adam Lonsdale explore how our relationship with music changes as we age. While younger people often gravitate towards energetic genres, research shows that as we grow older, we tend to prefer more relaxing styles like classical and jazz. Additionally, our overall engagement with music declines over time, potentially due to busier lifestyles and a reduced need for emotional expression through music. Join us as we dive into the findings of a new study that investigates music preferences across a wider age range and seeks to uncover the factors behind this shift in music engagement. You can find out about Shannon’s and Adam’s work here: https://sites.google.com/brookes.ac.uk/music-across-the-lifespan/home
In this thought-provoking episode, PhD researcher Kam Zeb delves into the rich symbolism of dragons in mid-19th to early 20th century literature - and how these mythical beings challenge our understanding of what it means to be human. Drawing on posthumanist theory, Kam explores dragons as complex figures that blur the boundaries between nature, technology, morality and identity. From Siegfried’s blood-soaked metamorphosis to mechanical dragons of the modern age, this conversation invites listeners to rethink humanity’s place in the world - and imagine a more connected future. Correction: When discussing Beowulf, Kam said that the word 'geniwad' was a hapax, but he has since discovered that it is actually a triplex - used twice in the form geniwod and one as geniwad.
What is it like to navigate university as an autistic student? In this episode of Unscripted, we talk with PhD student Ali Hutchin on the experiences, challenges, and successes of autistic students in higher education. We discuss the barriers they face, the support systems that make a difference, and how universities can foster a more inclusive learning environment. Through personal stories and expert insights, we highlight the importance of understanding neurodiversity in academia and what can be done to create a more accessible and empowering university experience. You can explore this work wider by visiting Autistica.co.uk
In the second part of our conversation on patient and public involvement (PPI), Professor Jo Brett and Dr Georgia Cook return with Dr Jenny Seddon, Dr Lucy McGeagh, and Dr Fiona Matley to dig deeper into what meaningful involvement really looks like. They reflect on the complexities of inclusion, the emotional labour of co-production, and how lived experience can challenge-and ultimately strengthen-research. From difficult conversations to unexpected lessons, this episode is an honest look at the messiness, value, and ongoing learning involved in doing PPI well. You can explore this work wider by visiting: https://sites.google.com/brookes.ac.uk/oxinahr-ppie/home If you would like to find out how to join the Oxford Brookes Service User Group, you can find more information here: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/hls/about/user-involvement
In this first of a special two-part take over on patient and public involvement (PPI), Professor Jo Brett and Dr Georgia Cook are joined by researchers Dr Jenny Seddon, Dr Lucy McGeagh, and Dr Fiona Matley to explore what meaningful involvement really looks like in health and social care research. Through reflections on real projects-from alcohol reduction and cancer care to prescription medication dependence-they share how lived experience shapes better research, and offer practical advice for those starting out. If you’re wondering how to embed PPI into your work-or why it matters-this is the episode to start with. You can explore this work wider by visiting: https://sites.google.com/brookes.ac.uk/oxinahr-ppie/home If you would like to find out how to join the Oxford Brookes Service User Group, you can find more information here: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/hls/about/user-involvement
In this episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted, we talk to criminologist and PhD student Simon McFadden, whose work explores the strange intersection of dark tourism, screen-induced tourism, and 'dark fandom.' From Jack the Ripper-associated sites in London to crime tours in Milwaukee and Los Angeles, Simon takes us into the shadowy spaces where culture, crime, and curiosity collide. Drawing on fieldwork across the UK and US, Simon’s research investigates how true crime media, tourism industries, and online fandoms intertwine – especially in sites tied to infamous figures like Jeffrey Dahmer, Charles Manson, and Jack the Ripper. We also dive into how media representations – often glamorised with Hollywood actors – shape public memory, and why real-world tourist sites continue to attract visitors decades after the crimes. With sharp insights into criminology, media, tourism, and architecture, Simon challenges us to rethink why people are drawn to the macabre – and how society navigates its darkest narratives. To find more about his research, visit here: https://napier-repository.worktribe.com/output/2709266, https://www.revenantjournal.com/contents/i-am-the-dark-tourist-messenger-of-remembrance-by-h-e-sawyer/
In this episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted, we’re joined by PhD student and artist Sylvia Morgado de Queiroz from the School of Arts, whose practice-led research reshapes how we think about diversity, participation, and belonging in arts institutions. From Oxford to Rio de Janeiro, Sylvia has worked directly with communities to explore what makes people feel welcome in museums and galleries — and what still needs to change. We dive into her collaborations with Modern Art Oxford and Brazilian artist Maxwell Alexandre, whose socially engaged work inspired a documentary film that Sylvia produced as part of her doctoral research. Whether through coffee-fuelled conversations in Oxford or interviews inside unexpected ‘pavilions’ in Rio’s favelas, Sylvia’s research centres on co-creation, emotional connection, and cultural accessibility. To find more about her research and documentary film, Paving the Way – Pavilion Maxwell Alexandre, follow her: Instagram: https://bit.ly/4jdyX0I Website: https://www.sylviamorgado.com/ Linktree: https://bit.ly/3Gd8NMX
What happens when societal stigma shapes how we treat mental illness? In this episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted Podcast Series, we explore the complex relationship between public attitudes and mental health treatment in the UK. Oxford Brookes undergraduate student, Georgia-Mae Williams-Sims, delves into her research on how stigma influences the perceived acceptability and necessity of antidepressants for adults experiencing depressive symptoms. From media narratives to personal experiences, we unpack the cultural forces that impact treatment decisions - and why it matters. Join us as we challenge taboos, confront misconceptions, and discuss how shifting perceptions can lead to more compassionate and effective mental healthcare. You can explore this work wider by checking out a piece Georgia wrote on the impact of stigma on men: https://www.bps.org.uk/news/public-stigma-and-masculinity-exploring-barriers-mens-mental-health-treatment-and
In this episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted Podcast Series, Professor Marcel Vellinga takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of vernacular architecture - buildings created by communities for their own needs, often without formal architects. He explains why these structures are much more than quaint relics; they embodied cultural identity, social values and sustainable design long before the term became popular. Marcel also explores how new technologies, climate change and the push to decolonise architectural discourse are reshaping our understanding of what architecture is - and who gets to define it. You can explore this work wider by visiting his staff profile: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/marcel-vellinga
In this episode, we dive into the FORTEe project, an innovative European study exploring how exercise combined with digital health technologies could help children and young people during cancer treatment. Joined by Professor Eila Watson who is a Professor in Supportive Cancer Care, and Hayley Marriott and Dr Alba Solera-Sanchez, who are both researchers in this project at Oxford Brookes University. We discuss the potential benefits of these interventions and explore how this research is shaping the future of cancer care for young people. You can explore this work wider by visiting www.fortee-project.eu/, or the FORTEe projects social media pages.
In this episode, we speak with Dr Sam Thrower, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Oxford Brookes University, about the vital but often overlooked role that parents play in youth sport. Drawing upon over 10 years of experience, Sam explains how parent education and support interventions can have a powerful impact on young athletes' participation, long-term development, and performance in youth sport. From navigating the emotional highs and lows of competition to fostering open communication during the car journey home, this episode offers practical insights into building psychologically informed youth sport environments. You can explore this work wider by visiting his staff profile: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/sam-thrower
In this episode, we dive into Banking on Health – a project empowering young people and their families to cook nutritious, affordable meals while building essential life skills. Led by Dr Shelly Coe and Dr Sarah-Louise Mitchell, researchers at Oxford Brookes University, the initiative tackles the growing challenge of food insecurity and low nutritional literacy by delivering hands-on workshops in schools. We hear how the project is helping children understand the connections between food, health, and sustainability, and why practical, community-based education is key to long-term change. Tune in for inspiring stories, valuable insights, and a fresh perspective on what it means to bank on health. You can explore Shelly’s and Sarah’s wider work on their staff pages: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/shelly-coe and https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/sarah-louise-mitchell
The role of sustainability practitioners is evolving—so how can education and industry keep up? In this episode, we explore the shifting skill sets required for sustainability careers and what this means for workplace training and higher education. We discuss the importance of education-industry partnerships and how research informs both organisational strategies and teaching approaches. Speaking with Dr Karen Cripps, Senior Lecturer in Responsible Management and Leadership in the Oxford Brookes Business School, and Charly Cox, founder of Climate Change Coaches and Entrepreneur in Residence at Oxford Brookes Business School, we examine how institutions can align with the Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) to prepare future sustainability leaders. You can explore this work wider by visiting: https://climatechangecoaches.com/sustainabilitys-new-skills-research/
In this episode of Oxford Brookes Unscripted, Dr Syahirah Abdul Rahman (Shera), Senior Lecturer in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, explores the transformative potential of commercialising SHAPE research - Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts for People and the Economy. She challenges misconceptions around commercialisation, explaining how it’s not just about profit but about creating sustainable, real-world impact. We discuss how SHAPE and STEM can work together, why a cultural shift in academia is needed, and how universities can support researchers in turning knowledge into practical solutions. With inspiring examples of successful SHAPE ventures, this episode highlights commercialisation as a powerful vehicle for research impact and long-term societal change. You can explore Shera’s wider research by visiting her staff profile: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/syahirah-abdul-rahman https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mark-mann-aa83467_tto-shape-socialenterprise-activity-7289677022618943489-UWKN?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&rcm=ACoAAA4JqMIBJgB-u7z-mVuNdYo_XknZsbZn0I0
Who really pays for policing football matches? In this episode, Oxford Brookes Lecturer in Criminology, Dr Rich Hester explores the complex world of special police services, cost recovery, and the ongoing tensions between football clubs and law enforcement. From high-risk fixtures to legal battles over policing costs, we dive into the challenges of keeping the game safe—and who should foot the bill. You can explore Rich’s wonder work on his staff page: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/profiles/staff/Richard-Hester
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