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PODCAST

Truth about Local Government

Where Local Government Professionals Learn and Develop.https://www.truthaboutlocalgovernment.com/#YourGrowth #YourImpact #OurPassion.

government

All Episodes

18:14

Big Plans: Why Masterplans Succeed (or Fail)

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/10/10

In this episode, Matthew Masters is joined by Cathy Palmer, Director of Regeneration Delivery at Walker Sime, to explore the critical ingredients that determine whether a masterplan succeeds or fails. With a career spanning both local government and consultancy, Cathy brings a rare dual perspective to the conversation. Her work at Walker Sime, particularly through the Regen Delivery service, focuses on helping councils and developers move from vision to viable delivery in complex regeneration

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15:36

Building the Future: Insights from Warwickshire's New...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/10/10

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Ryder, the Executive Director of Communities at Warwickshire County Council, to discuss the successful delivery of three new train stations in the region. Mark shares the challenges and triumphs of these major infrastructure projects, offering valuable advice for other local authorities looking to undertake similar initiatives. From planning and funding to community engagement and project management, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the

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20:30

Innovating for the Future: The Warwickshire Skills Hub

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/10/07

In this episode, we interview Mark Ryder, Executive Director for Communities, at Warwickshire County Council to delve into the creation and impact of the Warwickshire Skills Hub. This dedicated space supports businesses, schools, and communities in developing a well-skilled population that meets the evolving needs of the local economy. Mark discusses the objectives, vision, and tailored support provided by the hub, as well as the benefits and challenges faced. We explore the thoughtful approaches

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21:13

Leading with Insight: Managing and Motivating People...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/09/25

In this inaugural episode, we explore how local government leaders can harness the power of data, evidence, and insights to better manage and motivate their teams. Our guest, Kevan Collier, Strategic Learning and Organisational Development Lead at North West Employers, shares his expertise on using people analytics to drive performance, foster engagement, and build a culture of continuous improvement. We discuss the challenges and opportunities of data-driven leadership in the public sector, and how

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17:24

From Rayner to Reed: What Labour’s Shift Means for...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/09/22

In this episode we are joined by Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to unpack the political and policy implications of Angela Rayner’s departure and Steve Reed’s appointment as Shadow Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.What does this reshuffle signal for Labour’s approach to local government? Joe and Matthew explore the potential impact on key issues including:Local government reorganisation – Will Reed continue the push for structural reform, or take a more

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18:55

Temporary Doesn’t Mean Second-Class: Rethinking...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/09/16

In this episode we speak with John Angus, Managing Director at Switch, to explore practical and scalable solutions to the UK’s temporary accommodation crisis. Drawing on Switch’s unique model, rooted in hospitality and dignity, John shares how his team is transforming the way councils house vulnerable residents, offering safe, compliant, and community-oriented alternatives to traditional B&Bs and fragmented housing stock.From converting hotels into high-standard temporary homes to building

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19:18

Planning: Is It Really the Problem? Rethinking Growth...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/09/16

In this episode we interviewed Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to unpack the narrative around planning reform and UK economic growth. The government has positioned planning as the bottleneck to housing delivery — but is reforming the system enough to unlock the scale of development needed? Joe brings a research-led perspective to the debate, exploring the deeper structural issues, the role of local authorities, and what truly drives sustainable growth. This episode challenges conventional

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20:39

Property Without Borders: Commercial Thinking in the...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/09/10

In this episode, Matthew Masters speaks with Colin Galletly about the evolving role of property in local government. Colin challenges the notion that property sits in a silo, advocating instead for a cross-cutting, problem-solving approach that brings commercial acumen into the heart of public service. From unlocking value for money to navigating political and operational complexity, this conversation explores how local authorities can think differently about their estates, assets, and strategic

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17:25

Foundations of Change: Building Homes, Building Futures

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/09/09

In this episode of Foundations of Change, we speak with Sophie Baker, Programme Delivery Manager for the innovative Prisoners Building Homes initiative. This ground breaking programme brings together local authorities, housebuilders, and prisoners to tackle the housing crisis while offering meaningful rehabilitation and skills development. Sophie shares how the programme works, the impact it’s having, and what local councils can do to support and scale this model. We explore the intersection of

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17:28

The World at Our Doorstep: Rethinking Recruitment in...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/31

In this thought-provoking episode we speak with Steve Jorden, Chief Executive of Havant Borough Council, as he prepares to retire after more than 40 years of distinguished service. With a career spanning decades of transformation in the sector, Steve offers a timely and personal perspective on one of local government’s most pressing challenges: attracting talent from the Commonwealth and internationally.Together, they explore how councils can open their doors to global expertise, the structural and

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19:36

Policy as the Powerhouse: Why Local Government Runs...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/29

In this episode, Matt Masters sits down with Richard Cressey, Director of Policy and Strategy at Westminster City Council, to explore the often underappreciated but critical role of policy in local government. Together, they unpack why policy is the bedrock of effective administration, how it shapes the delivery of services, and what it takes to support policy professionals in driving meaningful change.From navigating political complexity to aligning strategy with community needs, this conversation

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20:51

Planning for Place: Strategic Vision and Policy in...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/29

In this episode we sit down with Graham Nelson, an experienced senior executive in local government and a Chartered Town Planner, to explore the critical role of planning policy and strategic planning in shaping communities. From local plans to regional growth strategies, Graham shares insights on how planning can drive sustainable development, balance competing interests, and respond to national reform agendas. The conversation also touches on leadership in planning services, the evolving role of

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16:12

Beyond the Books: Why Reading Matters to Society and...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/28

In this episode we speak with Callum Glendinning, Reading Development Consultant at Daisy Education, to explore the societal impact of reading beyond the classroom. We unpack how literacy shapes communities, the current challenges and opportunities in school reading provision, and the barriers that prevent pupils from accessing the written word. Callum shares insights into how Reading Plus is helping schools overcome these hurdles and addresses the common concern about screen time in education

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19:41

Vision That Delivers: Andy Algar on Making...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/27

In this episode, Matthew Masters is joined by Andy Algar to explore the three critical ingredients for crafting a successful vision that leads to real development outcomes. From navigating political realities to building lasting partnerships, Andy shares practical insights drawn from years of experience in local government and regeneration.Together, they unpack:How to align vision with political and organisational prioritiesWhy stakeholder engagement must go beyond the statutory minimumWhat it takes

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19:04

What Makes a Great Interim? The Core Characteristics...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/13

In this episode of Truth About Local Government, Becky Louise interviews Matt Masters to unpack a crucial question: what makes a truly effective interim leader in local government? Drawing on real-world experience and sharp observation, Matt outlines the essential traits that separate high-performing interims from the rest. From navigating political complexity to delivering results at pace, this conversation explores the mindset, behaviours, and values that define the best interim professionals

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18:55

From Strategy to Street Level: Translating Central...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/12

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government, I sit down with Keith Burge veteran economic strategist and place-based development expert to unpack the complex machinery behind local economic development in the UK.We explore how national ambitions are translated into meaningful local outcomes, drawing on Keith’s extensive experience in regions like Tees Valley, West of England, and North Tyne. From evaluating employability projects and appraising funding bids to crafting local economic

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20:12

Power and Prosperity: Local Investment for Housing...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/12

In this episode, Matthew Masters is joined again by Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to explore two of their latest publications: "New Stable", which examines how reforming the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) could unlock billions for affordable housing, and "Generating Hope", which looks at the Local Power Plan within GB Energy and the role of local authorities in driving clean energy transformation.Together, they unpack how local government can be empowered to lead on two of the UK’s

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20:24

Furnishing Futures: Tackling Furniture Poverty...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/08

In this powerful episode of The Truth About Local Government, we sit down with Claire Donovan, Director at End Furniture Poverty, and Ian Rice, Service Manager for Financial Support at North Tyneside Council, to uncover the hidden crisis of furniture poverty a growing issue affecting thousands of residents across the UK.We explore the scale and impact of furniture poverty on individuals and families, particularly its profound effects on health and wellbeing, and why public health teams are

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22:11

Building the Future: Tackling Infrastructure Costs in...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/08

In this episode of The Truth About Local Government, we speak with Owen Jenkins, Executive Director for Place at Surrey County Council. As infrastructure costs continue to rise, local authorities face mounting pressure to deliver essential services while balancing fiscal responsibility and climate commitments. Owen shares insights into the financial, logistical, and environmental challenges of major developments and how councils like Surrey are working to overcome them.

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18:59

Beyond Growth: Rethinking Health, Wealth and Local...

Truth about Local Government ·

2025/08/06

In this episode of Beyond Growth, we speak with Rob Noonan from the University of Chester, whose recent work challenges the dominant economic narrative that growth is always good. Drawing on his 2024 publications, Rob explores how capitalism and the pursuit of extrinsic goals have contributed to poor public health, widening inequalities, and unsustainable futures. We discuss what this means for local government leaders and policymakers: how can councils reframe their goals, shift priorities, and

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327 results

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