Summary:

In Growth, the final episode of Series Two, we examine Brighton’s economic and social growth, with contributors reflecting on the city's challenges and opportunities. This episode delves into the debate around what it means to grow in a city known for creativity and activism. Is economic growth compatible with sustainability? Can Brighton thrive without exacerbating inequality?

Key questions:

• How can Brighton foster both economic and social growth without losing its unique identity?
• What role does the tech sector play in driving inclusive and sustainable growth in the city?
• Can Brighton tackle inequality and affordability while attracting investment?
• How can grassroots movements and community-led initiatives shape the city's future growth?
• Is "growth" in Brighton a dirty word, or can it be redefined to promote equity and sustainability?

Featured Contributors:

• Paul Doran – Tech marketing specialist
  Paul discusses Brighton's ecosystem and the need for innovative, cross-sector collaboration to drive growth.

• Flo Powell – PR Consultant, Midnight Communications
  Flo highlights the challenges and opportunities of Brighton’s property boom, emphasising sustainable urban development.

  • Website: Midnight Communications

• Rose Tighe – Co-founder, Brighton AI
  Rose talks about how AI can be used for social good in Brighton, addressing the city’s economic inequalities through tech innovation.

• Bobby Brown – Community Worker and Creative Entrepreneur
  Bobby reflects on the intersection of creativity and grassroots activism in shaping Brighton's future growth.

• Kayla Ente – Founder, Brighton & Hove Energy Services Cooperative (BHESCO)
  Kayla discusses the importance of green energy and community-driven solutions to support sustainable growth in Brighton.

  • Website: BHESCO

• Simon Chuter – Head of Centres and Investment Services, Sussex Innovation
  Simon reflects on the role of investment in supporting Brighton's growing businesses and scaling up local startups.

  • Website: Sussex Innovation

• Vicki Hughes – Managing Director, Fugu PR
  Vicki discusses Brighton & Hove Albion’s economic impact and how sport can contribute to the city's growth.

  • Website: Fugu PR

• Alex Young – Director, Projects
  Alex talks about Brighton’s business ecosystem, touching on how startups and young entrepreneurs can drive the city’s growth.

  • Website: Projects

• Gavin Stewart – Executive Director, Brighton Business Improvement District / Economic Partnership
  Gavin reflects on the challenges of Brighton’s wage gap, the gender pay gap, and how the city can create better opportunities for everyone.

• LinkedIn: Gavin Stewart

Key topics covered:

• Economic growth vs. sustainability: Can Brighton grow its economy without losing sight of its sustainability goals, and how can it maintain its identity amidst rapid change?

• AI and tech-driven growth: The role of artificial intelligence in Brighton’s future is examined, especially how it can drive social good and create new economic opportunities.

• Green energy and the circular economy: Kayla Ente and Vicki Hughes discuss the importance of the green economy and how community-driven initiatives like BHESCO and Brighton Loop can help the city thrive sustainably.

• Tackling inequality: Many contributors highlight the challenges of income inequality, the housing crisis, and the need for more inclusive growth in Brighton.

• Grassroots activism and community resilience: Bobby Brown and others reflect on how local movements are influencing policy and creating opportunities for underserved communities.

Conclusions:

There is a need for more investment, but this must be paired with community-led solutions, particularly in green energy and housing. Contributors agree that Brighton has the potential to grow into a more equitable city, but only if it addresses its deep-rooted issues of inequality and affordability.

Credits:

This is an always possible podcast: alwayspossible.podcastpage.io/

In collaboration with Lo Fi Arts: linkedin.com/company/lo-fi-arts/

Supported by Brighton & Hove Albion FC: brightonandhovealbion.com

Project partners:

• EQ Investors: eqinvestors.co.uk
• University of Brighton's Help to Grow Management programme: https://www.brighton.ac.uk/business-services/help-to-grow.aspx
• Midnight Communications: https://www.midnight.co.uk

Written and presented by: Richard Freeman
Produced and edited by: Chris Thorpe Tracey
Project support by: Kate Regester and the always possible team
Podcast artwork by: Meg Fenn

Original music by:

• Fatboy Slim: fatboyslim.net
• Theme music: "Nadda" by Noraay: noraay.com
• Chris Thorpe Tracey: christt.bandcamp.com

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