Invisible Cities Talks

In this special bonus episode, we take a moment to reflect on the journey so far, five seasons, twenty episodes, and countless powerful stories shared through the Invisible Cities Talks podcast.

Join us as we look back at the themes we've explored, from homelessness and mental health to community-led tourism and impactful partnerships across Europe and Manchester. We celebrate the voices of our guides, our incredible guests, and you, our listeners for supporting this project every step of the way.

You'll also get a sneak peek at what's coming next in Season 6: Support That Matters, launching in September.

This episode is a heartfelt thank you, and a celebration of everything we’ve built together.

Thank you to the National Lottery UK for supporting the creation of this podcast.

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In this emotional and inspiring final episode of our Together in Manchester season, we sit down with Risha Lancaster, co-founder of Coffee4Craig, a Manchester-based charity supporting people experiencing homelessness with compassion and dignity.

Co-hosted by our Manchester guide Nick, this conversation explores how Coffee4Craig began as a tribute to Risha’s brother Craig and grew into a seven-day-a-week lifeline for so many. Risha shares the challenges they face, the vital importance of partnerships and community support, and why belief in others and in yourself matters more than anything.

From practical support to deep-rooted compassion, this episode is a reminder that change starts with simple acts of kindness, persistence, and trust.

Tune in to hear a story of hope, resilience, and the power of community spirit in Manchester.

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In this episode of Invisible Cities Talks, part of our Together in Manchester season, we sit down with Kristen MacGregor-Houlston, Head of Brand Partnerships at The Manc, a bold and widely-loved media platform dedicated to showcasing the real voices of the city.

Hosted by our Manchester guide Nick, this episode explores The Manc’s journey from humble beginnings as a meme page to becoming a trusted local voice reaching millions across the North. Kristen shares how the platform balances commercial success with a deep commitment to uplifting local stories from small businesses to charities and social causes.

We talk about the power of community storytelling, adapting to the fast-moving world of digital media, and why partnerships with organisations like Invisible Cities matter more than ever.

Tune in for insight, humour, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of Manchester’s loudest and most passionate voices.

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In this episode of Invisible Cities Talks, we’re joined by Niall Fitzmaurice, Hotel Manager at Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central and the incredible host of our Manchester recording base for this season.

Alongside our Manchester guides Andy and Stephen, we dive into the world of hospitality: what it means to create a home away from home, why people are at the core of every great hotel experience, and how one smile at reception can make all the difference.

Niall shares his journey through the industry, his passion for supporting his team, and the hotel’s impressive sustainability efforts including achieving and retaining the Gold Green Tourism Award. We also hear about Leonardo’s partnerships with schools and universities, and how they’re helping young people discover rewarding careers in hospitality.

Warm, down-to-earth, and full of insight, this episode shines a light on what hospitality can truly be.

Listen now and meet the people behind the front desk who make all the difference.

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In this episode of Invisible Cities Talks, we kick off our special Manchester season with a powerful conversation featuring Darren from Timpson, one of the UK’s most inspiring employers of people with convictions.

Joined by our Manchester guides Andy and Stephen as co-hosts, we explore how Timpson’s inclusive hiring practices are transforming lives. Darren shares how a chance encounter in a prison over 20 years ago sparked a long-term commitment to second chances, and how their approach, rooted in trust, compassion, and belief in potential, has shaped the company’s culture ever since.

From real stories of resilience and recovery to practical advice for businesses wanting to follow suit, this episode shines a light on what’s possible when people are given an opportunity to thrive.

Tune in for honesty, hope, and a whole lot of inspiration.

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Welcome to Episode 4 of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe.

In this episode, we’re joined by Tom from Secret Street Tours, a social enterprise based in Dublin, Ireland, that offers walking tours led by individuals who have experienced homelessness. These tours provide a unique and powerful perspective on the city, blending personal stories with local history to challenge stereotypes and foster understanding.

Our host, Michaela, is joined by Glasgow guide Angie, who leads this insightful conversation. Together, they explore how Secret Street Tours was founded, the challenges of recruiting and training guides, and the transformational impact the tours have on both guides and participants. Tom also shares how their tours help break down barriers, why storytelling is key to changing perceptions, and the organisation’s ambitions for the future.

Tune in to hear how social tourism is creating opportunities, amplifying unheard voices, and reshaping the way we experience cities.

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Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe.

In this episode, we’re joined by Salome from querstadtein, a Berlin-based social enterprise that invites people to experience the city through the eyes of those who have faced homelessness, migration, or other social challenges. By leading guided tours, querstadtein’s storytellers share their lived experiences, challenge stereotypes, and foster understanding and dialogue within the community.

Our host, Michaela, is joined by Glasgow guide Silvana, who leads this inspiring conversation. Together, they explore how querstadtein was founded, how they train and support their guides, and the transformational impact of storytelling. Salome also shares the organisation’s work beyond tourism, including solidarity tours that raise awareness of pressing social issues in Berlin, such as homelessness during winter and the effects of climate migration.

Tune in to hear how social enterprises like querstadtein are using tourism to amplify unheard voices, reshape perceptions, and drive meaningful social change.

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Welcome to Episode 2 of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe.

In this episode, we’re joined by Rasmus from Gadens Stemmer, a Danish social enterprise dedicated to creating meaningful employment for individuals who have faced homelessness, addiction, or social vulnerability. Operating across five cities in Denmark, Gadens Stemmer offers guided tours led by people with lived experience, providing a unique and powerful perspective on life on the margins of society.

Our Glasgow guide, Silvana, leads this insightful conversation with Rasmus, who shares the organisation’s mission, impact, and challenges, including how they recruit and train their guides, their journey toward financial sustainability, and the transformational impact these tours have on both guides and participants.

Tune in to hear inspiring personal stories, learn about Gadens Stemmer’s work in the social tourism sector, and discover how organisations like this are reshaping perceptions and creating new opportunities for individuals across Europe.

Join us as we continue exploring the power of tourism to change lives and foster deeper understanding!

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Welcome to the opening episode of Season 4 of Invisible Cities Talks, titled Social Tourism Impact in Europe.

In this episode, we are joined by Teresa from Pragulic, a social enterprise based in Prague, Czech Republic, that uses tourism to challenge public perceptions of homelessness. Pragulic trains and supports individuals with lived experience of homelessness to become tour guides, offering unique city tours that foster empathy, awareness, and social change.

Discover how Pragulic was founded, the challenges faced in creating a sustainable social enterprise, and the impact their tours have on both guides and visitors. Learn about their recruitment and training process, how they engage with local communities, and their future ambitions for expanding their work.

This conversation is led by Silvana, a guide from Invisible Cities Glasgow, who brings her own insights into the transformative power of social tourism. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of resilience, the importance of shifting societal attitudes, and the role of tourism in creating meaningful employment opportunities.

Join us for this exciting start to Season 4 as we explore the social impact of tourism across Europe!

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Join us in the season finale of 'Invisible Cities Talks' Season 3, titled 'Responsible Tourism.' In this insightful episode, Michaela, alongside Edinburgh guide Sonny, welcomes Carron from the Scottish Community Tourism Network. Together, they delve into the principles and practices of responsible tourism, exploring how this approach benefits local communities, preserves cultural heritage, and supports sustainable economic growth. Carron shares innovative strategies and real-world examples of how tourism can be reimagined to foster community well-being and environmental stewardship. Tune in to discover how responsible tourism is making a significant impact across Scotland and how you can be a part of this positive change.

You can follow us on social media on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn
Visit our website or email us to [email protected]
We would love to hear from you!