'Under The Covers' From Westminster Libraries

With us this month is David Wilkins, who is Head of Smart City Programmes for Westminster City Council. In his time in the role, David's aim has been to make sure everyone in, and visiting, Westminster is 'fantastically' connected. And that has included measures such as providing free, seamless WiFi and tackling data poverty. In his book choices, David talks about being inspired to achieve a work-life balance,  including how to live healthily until 100!  And how voice recognition technology is more likely to understand a male voice.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and is available at freemusicarchive

In this episode we're focusing on Black History Month. Librarian Sara Ashbourne actually helped launch Under the Covers, by being the very first guest, more than two years ago. Sara is speaking about women who inspired her, and how she strives to inspire others.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and is available at freemusicarchive

Hamza Taouzzale became the youngest ever Lord Mayor of Westminster at the age of 22. During his term, which ended in May this year, he found himself taking part in internationally high profile events while carrying out an important agenda to support his local community. He also strove to support young people and encouraged them to see the value of getting involved in politics at an early age.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and is available at freemusicarchive

What is Glossophobia? It's the fear of public speaking. Our guest, Esther Stanhope, travels the world helping people to confidently express themselves whether they're performing a business pitch or a wedding speech. Esther knows what it's like to be sick with nerves, and she knows how overcome it. In this episode she gives details of how to get a free audio version of her book, 'Goodbye Glossophobia'.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander on freemusicarchive

In this episode, Nick Ross talks crime: the TV programme, 'Crimewatch', the Jill Dando Institute of Crime Science, and his book on the subject. He also describes the fascinating history of his neighbourhood. And speaks of the personal history that inspired him to take out German citizenship.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and can be found on freemusicarchive

In this episode we hear from Bhushan Kumar whose social media side line has boosted his career and his confidence. Bhushan also speaks about his passion for reading and his formative experiences of libraries, in particular Paddington Children's Library. And he shares some long-loved books.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and is available on the freemusicarchive.

March 2023 is Women's History Month. In this episode we hear from a woman who's risen to challenges and faced them down. Sarah Newman credits the love and support of her family. She is Executive Director of Children's Services for Westminster City Council and Kensington and Chelsea Council. Her message to young people is: 'take up opportunities to be creative and ambitious and really believe you can be anything.'

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander which is available on the freemusicarchive

The BBC has put Maida Vale up for sale and will move to a new site. Andy Rogers, senior producer at Radio 1, takes us on a magical mystery tour of the cherished Studios. Andy says they have had more famous artistes through their doors than anywhere else in the world. And he should know. He's worked there for thirty years and has collaborated with the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Beyonce, Bjork, Stormzy and the Foo Fighters. And the best thing about Maida Vale? Everyone is equal - from the biggest bands to those just starting out. 

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and is available on the freemusicarchive

We're marking the achievements of Loy Phillips. She brought passion and drive to celebrating the Windrush Generation. And after the murder of George Floyd, Loy used her experience of the legal world to launch several projects, including working with the Met to produce 'Policing Know Your Rights'. She's made films and written fiction. And Loy speaks of a childhood accident that left her seeing life quite differently.

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander from the freemusicarchive

With her company, 'Women of London', Becky Laxton-Bass conducts walking tours which follow in the footsteps of famous and not so famous women who have made a mark on history. Among the trips are Women of Westminster, of Bloomsbury and of The East End. There's even a limited edition one exploring Covent Garden and revealing historical links between women and gin. 

Our music is 'Smile from the Mirror' by Crowander and is available at freemusicarchive