New podcast for UK engagement and consultation professionals

“So this is our first ever Open Voice Lab podcast, and we're a little bit excited, we're a little bit nervous. Hopefully we're gonna have some fun…”

Introducing our UK engagement and consultation podcast

We are so excited to announce the launch of our new podcast designed for people working in community engagement, consultation, participation and public involvement across the UK public sector, NHS, charities, and VCSE organisations.

We will be bringing clear, honest conversations about the realities of modern engagement work – what’s changing, what’s not and what teams need to pay attention to – in a series of short podcasts designed to be listened to on the commute or over lunchtime.

Episode 1: Rethinking summer consultation and engagement

Our first episode opens with a moment that perfectly captures the energy behind this launch. Starting a podcast feels like stepping into something new, a little outside our comfort zone, and the aim is to create a space for honest discussion about engagement work – the challenges and the realities.

Episode 1 tackles one of the most persistent myths in UK engagement: that organisations shouldn’t consult over summer. We explore where this idea came from, why it no longer reflects how people participate, and how summer can actually be one of the most effective periods of the year. From digital engagement and paid social to equality impact assessments, community events, staff wellbeing and the practical realities of running engagement in warm weather, the episode offers a grounded, evidence‑led look at what summer engagement really involves.

Meet the hosts

Hosted by our Open Voice Lab founders, Alexia Mitton and Rachel Richardson, the podcast brings together years of experience supporting public sector organisations to listen well, design better engagement, and build trust with communities. Each episode will focus on a different aspect of engagement and consultation practice, with a commitment to being practical, reflective and rooted in real‑world challenges – and keep an eye out for some special guests along the way.

Listen to our podcast

Give us a listen and let us know what you think, plus any suggestions for future topics.

You can find our Open Voice Lab podcast on YouTube and Spotify. Check us out.