In this episode, Tash speaks with activist and equality advocate Natasha Johnson, co-founder of All Black Lives UK and EDI lead at St Basil’s Youth Homelessness Charity.

Natasha reflects on the youth-led protests of 2020 following George Floyd’s murder and shares how she and her peers mobilised thousands across the UK to demand justice and systemic change.

They explore:

- The ongoing realities of racism and discrimination in 2026
- The difference between being “not racist” and actively anti-racist
- Performative allyship vs meaningful action
- Intersectional challenges facing young people experiencing homelessness, immigration barriers, and racial trauma
- Why bravery and collective action are essential to dismantling systemic inequality

This episode is a candid, thought-provoking conversation about why Black Lives still matter, the importance of sustained activism, and the urgent need for allies to move beyond words into action.

🔗 You can also access the audio via our website homepage or watch on our YouTube Channel – and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes tackling diversity, equity, and inclusion.

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

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In this episode of Diverse Talk Matters, we’re diving into one of the most important and fast-moving conversations of our time: disability, accessibility and artificial intelligence.

Natasha Broomfield-Reid is joined by David Banes, a global leader in accessibility, assistive technology and inclusive innovation, with over 40 years of experience working at the intersection of disability, education, policy and emerging technology. David shares his deep insight into how AI can be a powerful enabler for disabled people, while also unpacking the very real risks if inclusion and equity are not built in from the start.

Together, we explore what AI gets right, where it falls short, and why bias, data, transparency and decision-making systems matter so much for disabled people. From recruitment and employment to healthcare, assistive technology and everyday workplace tools, this conversation cuts through the hype to focus on what meaningful, accessible innovation really looks like.

We also discuss the myths around cost and complexity, the importance of lived experience in AI design, and why prompt-writing and critical thinking are becoming essential skills for everyone. David offers practical reflections on how organisations, employers and disabled people themselves can engage with AI in ways that support independence, inclusion and opportunity, rather than exclusion and harm.

This is an honest, thought-provoking and hopeful conversation about the future of work, technology and accessibility, and a reminder that when we design for those most often left out, everyone benefits.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• How AI can enhance accessibility when designed inclusively
• Where bias and discrimination creep into automated decision-making
• Why disabled voices must be central to AI development
• Practical examples of everyday tech already supporting access
• The skills we all need to use AI responsibly and effectively

If you care about disability inclusion, ethical innovation and creating a more accessible future, this episode is for you.

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

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Thank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.

Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.

In this episode of Diverse Talk Matters, Natasha Broomfield-Reid speaks with disability equity advocate Bee Innes, who shares her lived experience of ME and Lyme disease and the systemic challenges that shaped her journey.

Bee discusses the complexity of navigating long-term illness, from years spent bedridden to delayed diagnosis, and the role that nutrition, hydration and functional approaches played in rebuilding her wellbeing.

The conversation explores:

• The impact of nutrition and hydration on health and recovery

• Misunderstandings and stigma surrounding ME and chronic illness

• Barriers within welfare rights and the benefits system

• Why employee wellbeing must extend beyond policy statements

• How disability awareness training strengthens inclusive workplace cultures Bee’s insights highlight the importance of credible information, practical support, and organisational responsibility in creating environments where disabled people can thrive.

This episode is valuable for anyone interested in disability equity, wellbeing, and the wider changes needed for truly inclusive practice.

Listen as Natasha and Bee unpack the realities of disability and wellbeing – and what meaningful inclusion looks like in practice. Remember that this podcast is also available as video on our YouTube Channel. If you find this useful, please share with your network!

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

Or connect with us on social media

Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram

Thank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.

Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.