Vocal Rogue

In this episode, we speak with Nick Smith and Kath from Headway Black Country, a specialist organization dedicated to supporting brain injury survivors, their carers, and families. Brain injuries can have a profound impact on individuals and their loved ones, and Headway BC offers a range of resources, information, and support for those who have been affected. They also provide a specialist Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service that offers activities designed to help brain injury survivors regain lost skills and gain new ones.

In this episode, we speak with Toby Lewis and Dr. Nick Makwana about the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital. This state-of-the-art complex works alongside four universities to support the volunteer sector and nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals, such as consultants, doctors, nurses, and scientists. The hospital also creates significant employment and apprenticeship opportunities, supporting the local economy while providing advanced healthcare services in the region. We also hear from Ruth Wilkins, Director of Communications for the NHS volunteering services.

Other campaigns and charities at MMUH

Engie UK

Sapphire Service from West Bromwich African Caribbean Resource Centre

The Real Junk Food Project

Sick Be Nourished

* We would like to thank, Sandwell & West Birmingham NHS Trust for the tour around this state of the art super hospital, and the episode. *

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health for Sandwell, about raising awareness of mental health issues. She shares her own experience with mental health issues and highlights that mental health does not discriminate and the importance of knowing where to go to get easy access to support. We also discuss a new project called the Stronger Sandwell Project, which provides places for young people to go, a support line, opportunities for the elderly to get outside and meet new people, and places for people with disabilities that cater to their needs. Useful links below:

Mental Health Support In Sandwell:

Young people (under 18)

Sandwell Beam childrenssociety.org.uk/beam/sandwell

Adults (over 18)

Sandwell Healthy Minds sandwellhealthyminds.nhs.uk 0303 033 9903

Kaleidoscope Plus kaleidoscopeplus.org.uk Tel: 0121 565 5605

For people who may be considering suicide Samaritans – 116 123 or if an emergency call 999

In this episode, we speak with Ben Butler, owner of NewGenF7, about his experiences of being on the wrong side of the law and how growing up in a violent and unstable environment can influence one's choices later in life. Ben shares his journey from being in a violent domestic household to his time in the military and living abroad, and how he overcame his own mental health issues to inspire the next generation with New Generation Coaching. With NewGenF7, Ben runs boot camps that keep young people healthy and out of trouble while mentoring them to prevent them from falling down the same spiral trap of life.

In this episode, we are joined by Bodybuilder Byron Highton and Former Boxing Olympic Medallist & 3x Super-Middleweight World Champion Robin Reid. They discuss why they partnered with Safety Guide Foundation to open a charity aimed at addressing issues such as anti-bullying, anti-knife crime, child wellbeing, and drug and alcohol abuse within our communities. They share their personal experiences, including Byron's loss of his brother Jon-Jo to knife crime and Robin's experience of growing up being racially abused. They talk about their efforts to make this information available to young people in schools and their ACE manual guide to understanding modern society and creating a brighter community.

* We apologise for the slight interruptions as we recorded this episode at their HQ in Manchester *

In this episode, we speak with Latisha Swaby, the owner of kids charity YQ, about the importance of teaching life skills to young children. Latisha shares her experiences and the reasons behind why she opened her charity, as well as discussing the need for this platform to be introduced into schools to help children develop the skills they need to succeed in adult life. We also hear from four young children, Romero, Jay, Kian, and Jaheim, who provide insight into their daily lives and how societal issues affect them.

* Apologies for the slight sound interruptions as we recorded this episode in an open venue at the Custard Factory, Birmingham *

This episode honours Black History Month as we speak with Denzil Fletcher about his late mother, Cherry Fletcher, who was a trailblazer for black professionals and the founder of the Association of Black Probation Officers as well as the chairwoman of the now closed Wolverhampton Cultural Centre. We discuss Cherry's life and legacy, including the challenges she faced as a black woman fighting for fair treatment and equal opportunities for all.

"Know The Past, Shape The Future!"

In this episode, we explore the topic of austerity and its impact on vulnerable populations, including the homeless and those living in poverty. Our guest, Vi Wood, shares her personal experiences of working with these populations through her organisation, Leslie Care Packages. We discuss the challenges facing those who are most vulnerable and the effects of modern-day slavery on our communities.

In this episode, we dive into the topic of community and whether we are stronger together or separated. Our guests, Craig, Matthew and Paige from Jubilee Jaguars FC, share their experiences when working for West Brom United football club and our joint efforts in combating knife crime and providing positive opportunities for young people. We discuss the importance of community involvement, supporting youth, the elderly populations and everyone in between, while maintaining a strong and healthy community.

In this episode, we discuss the power of positivity versus negativity, and how it affects our energy. Our guest, Alison Cope, shares her experience of losing her son, Joshua Ribera (known as Depzman), to knife crime in 2013, and how she used her pain to help others. Alison founded the Joshua Ribera Achievement Awards to honour her son's legacy and provide second chances for young people who have lost their way.

In this episode, we explore the concept of role models and their importance in society. Our guest, Andrew "Chi" Osbourne, shares his personal experience with being a role model as a martial arts practitioner and hall of famer. He also shares his story of overcoming PTSD with the support of mental health experts, the Speakmans. We learn that a role model is someone who inspires others through their words or actions, and sets a positive example that others can follow.

Grief is a natural and complex process that affects us all differently. In this episode, we explore the seven stages of grieving, including shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, testing, and acceptance. While these stages may manifest differently for each individual, they can serve as a helpful guide for understanding and coping with the grieving process.

The issue of disconnected youths is a widespread problem in many communities, with many young people struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and anti-social behaviour. Matthew Handley from West Brom United FC joins us to discuss how getting kids into sport can provide a positive outlet and help steer young people away from negative influences and activities.

- formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

The existence of ghosts and paranormal activity is a topic that has fascinated people around the world for centuries. While some people believe in the existence of ghosts and other supernatural beings, others are more skeptical and attribute these experiences to natural or psychological phenomena. What's your view on paranormal activities - do you believe in the existence of ghosts, angels, spirits, or other supernatural entities, or do you think these experiences have rational, scientific explanations?

* We are dedicating this episode to Lubo who'll no longer be at VR, as he's just signed with recording label LA Records (California), to pursue his love of music and Dj-ing * - formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

Entrepreneurs play a crucial role in driving innovation, creating jobs and shaping the economy. But what does it really take to be an entrepreneur.. what are some of the key traits and skills that successful entrepreneurs possess, and how can you cultivate these qualities if you're interested in starting your own business?

- formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

Poverty is a such a complex issue that affects millions of people all around the world. There are many factors that contribute to poverty.. from a lack of access to education and healthcare, to systemic inequalities such as racism and sexism. Why do you think poverty exists, and what are some of the most significant challenges facing those living in poverty?

- formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

Technology has unwittingly and undoubtedly changed the way in how we all live, work and communicate, in countless ways. While it has brought with it unbelievable benefits, there are also great concerns about the impact it has on society as a whole. There are pros and cons in everything but with today's technology, which outweighs who and where do you see it heading in the future?

- formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

As we are well aware life can be full of unexpected twists, turns, ups and downs that can range anywhere from one end of the spectrum to the other, each and everyone of us have our own unique challenges but, with assistance and a support line place in, it makes the journey so much easier. What are some of the biggest challenges that you've faced in your life, and how did you overcome them?

- formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

Women have accomplished so much throughout history, and it's hard to name just one who inspires. On todays show you will get to hear some of those who inspired us. However, if we had to choose another, we would say Malala Yousafzai. Her bravery and dedication to advocating for girls' education in Pakistan, even after surviving an assassination attempt, is truly awe-inspiring. She is proof that even the smallest voices can make a significant impact on the world.

- formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

We absolutely love music and singing along in the car or shower is one of our favourite pastimes. Some of the top 5 favourite sing-along songs would have to be I will survive by Gloria Gaynor, Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi, What's love got to do with it by Tina Turner, Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston.

* We apologize for the background noise, today's episode is in Starbucks, Birmingham * - formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.

What is our top 5 favourite films ever? That's a difficult question to answer as there are so many great films out there! However, some of the worlds favourites would have to be The Bodyguard, The Shawshank Redemption, Forrest Gump, The Dark Knight, and Pulp Fiction.

* We apologise for the background noise, our first podcast is being recorded in Tim Horton's, Birmingham * - formerly Podcast of the Four Horsemen.