Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.

In this episode, Alison is joined by a distinguished panel: John Johnston, Dr. Henry Kippin, and Sheena Ramsey.

• John Johnston, CEO of Bernicia and influential figure on the Council of North East Chamber of Commerce's board, brings a wealth of leadership and regional development insight.
• Dr. Henry Kippin, the driving force as Interim Chief Executive of The North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NEMCA), shares his vision for the region's future.
• Sheena Ramsey, Gateshead Council's Chief Executive, represents one of the seven local authorities integral to NEMCA, offering a unique perspective on local governance and community impact.

Together, they unravel the complexities of the north-south divide, exploring the pivotal role of devolution and the "levelling up" agenda in addressing longstanding socio-economic disparities.

During this insightful conversation, we discuss:

• Levelling Up & Can It Be Done
• Collaboration Over Competition 
• Poverty & Real Term Inequalities 
• Performance & Productivity 
• Employment & Intellectual Capacity
• The Social Obligation of Devolution
• A Strategy For Skills & Improvements
• Transport & HS2
• Investment & Infrastructure  
• Long vs. Short Term Planning 
• The Potential Impacts of A General Election & Change of Governance
• Thoughts For The Future & What Success Looks Like

Referenced Documents:

• Levelling Up White Paper
• Bankrupt Birmingham

Join us as we dive deep into the heart of the North's challenges and opportunities, seeking pathways to a more balanced and prosperous future. Tune in to "This Is The North" for a conversation that not only questions the status quo but also inspires actionable change.

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Alison Dunn (Host)

John Johnston

Dr Henry Kippin 

Sheena Ramsey

Peter Bell (Producer)

This podcast was recorded by Moja and produced by Purpose Made.

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