The Matalan People Podcast

Proud Chat: My Pride, My Way – Voices, Visibility & Why It Still Matters

In this special Pride edition of Proud Chat, we move beyond definitions and dive into something more personal: what Pride truly means to each of us. From visibility and authenticity, to allyship, education, and the lived realities behind the headlines, our panel share honest reflections on how Pride shows up in their lives—at work, at home, and in society. The conversation explores: * Why visibility and representation still matter today * The importance of education, allyship and speaking up * How Pride evolves at different stages of life * Real-life experiences of supporting children, friends and colleagues * The role businesses can play in creating inclusive cultures This episode is open, heartfelt and at times challenging—because Pride isn’t just a celebration. It’s a journey, a responsibility, and a conversation we all need to keep having. Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this is a reminder that Pride means something different to everyone… and that’s exactly why it matters.

Pride Month: Proud Chat - What is Pride?

Welcome to the Matalan People Podcast, celebrating the everyday heroes who make Matalan what it is. This episode is brought to you by the Proud Colleague Network. Today, we’re diving into a powerful conversation about Pride—where it began, what it stands for, and why it remains so important. From the history of the Stonewall riots to the realities faced by LGBTQ+ communities today, our colleagues share honest reflections on protest, celebration, visibility, and the work still to be done. Join us as we explore what Pride truly means, past and present, and how we can all play a part in creating a more inclusive future.

DEAF AWARENESS WEEK: LIVING AND WORKING WITH HEARING LOSS

Welcome to the Matalan People Podcast — celebrating the everyday heroes who make Matalan what it is. This episode is brought to you by the Maskateers Colleague Network. In this episode, we mark Deaf Awareness Week with an honest conversation about lived experience, accessibility, and inclusion. Sophie Bell is joined by Cassie from our Talent Development team, who shares her journey of living and working with hearing loss — and the small actions that can make a big difference for us all.

The Retail Trust

Today, we’re marking International Men’s Day and celebrating the first anniversary of the MataMen Network! To honour the moment, Dual Site Manager Fliss Jones sits down with Lauren Smith from the Retail Trust — a support service available to all Matalan colleagues, even though we know men often turn to it less than others. In this episode, they’ll explore what the Retail Trust does, who they can support, and the wide range of help they offer.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to recognise those affected, celebrate the survivors, and raise awareness about early detection, treatment, and support. In. this episode, Abbie Clements sits down with Julia Hassall, who shares her personal journey with breast cancer — from the moment she was diagnosed, to how she managed work during treatment, through to her surgery and eventual return to work.Together, they explore what it means to balance recovery, resilience, and everyday life