Shows
2025-01-0742 minThe 4theRegion Podcast71. A Conversation with Sustainability Consultants in South West WalesDawn Lyle from 4theRegion sits down with experts in environmental assessments and sustainability, to discuss how businesses can get the advice and support they need to decarbonise their operations.
We talk about why this is important from the perspective of supplying into large businesses and public sector organisations, and some of the risks and pitfalls associated with not taking your green credentials seriously.
This roundtable discussion is part of the build up to the 4theRegion Green Economy Conference & Exhibition for South West Wales, taking place in Swansea Arena on Tuesday 19th November 2024.
Our Pa...
2024-10-111h 03The 4theRegion Podcast70. Community Led Housing in South West WalesWelcome to the first of our Round Table discussions leading up to the regional Green Economy Conference on the 19th November at Swansea Arena. In this episode, we dive into community-led housing initiatives that are paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future in South West Wales.
Our Panel:
Sarah Foster: Pembrokeshire Community Led Housing Development Officer at PLANED;
Jonathan Hughes: Community Led Housing Advisor for Cwmpas;
Adam Land: Board Member of Gwyr Community Land Trust, on the Gower Peninsula;
Leonie Ramondt and Adrian Lester, from Swansea Co-Housing.
2024-09-131h 04The 4theRegion Podcast69. Opportunities for the Circular Economy in South West WalesToday we're talking about the circular economy. The transition away from the consumer economy and towards an economy that actually serves our wellbeing is going to take many forms, and it is happening across Wales as a whole and across the world. We discuss opportunities that exist, and what people, businesses and organisations are doing to strengthen our circular economy: What do we think is needed now and in future, and how we might collaborate to really develop and enhance circular economy principles and practices.
2024-07-231h 09The 4theRegion Podcast68. Community Resilience in South West WalesCommunity resilience is a subject that is really close to our hearts at 4theregion. A big part of our work is to enable the kind of collaboration and empowerment and place-based activities that are essential for building resilient connected local places, cohesive and connected communities and empowering people within communities to step up and play their part, and do all the amazing, wonderful things, many of which are represented in today's meeting, to build those resilient local places where we all want to live and work. Thank you for tuning in!
2024-06-2657 minThe 4theRegion Podcast67. Sustainable Food Partnerships in South West WalesThe sustainable food movement is gaining ground across South West Wales, with a raft of projects and initiatives underway. Transforming the way we produce and procure our food requires a whole system approach. In this discussion, hear from all four of South West Wales' local food partnerships, for an update on what's happening in Pembrokeshire, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire. From support for community growing, to fresh food vending machines, to the allocation of public land for public goods, there is plenty to feel positive about and much more that is needed. Thank you for tuning in!
2024-05-241h 34The 4theRegion Podcast66. Opportunities for Young People in South West WalesHear from a wide range of projects and organisations, about their work to support young people in our region. From employment skills to apprenticeships to life coaching, colleagues from across South West Wales shared their updates on initiatives to ensure young people in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire have the opportunity to flourish. This is part of a series of monthly conversations convened by 4theRegion to explore the opportunities that exist for people and businesses in South West Wales.
Find out more and join 4theRegion: www.4theRegion.org.uk
2024-04-191h 13The 4theRegion Podcast65. Construction Sector Opportunities in South West Wales4theRegion brought together people with an interest in construction, from Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, to share perspectives on the challenges faced by the sector, and the opportunities it presents for businesses and people in our region. This conversation is part of a series of cross-sector discussions convened monthly by 4theRegion, which is an alliance of businesses, community groups and other organisations based in South West Wales. Find out more on our website, www.4theRegion.org.uk
2024-04-191h 21The 4theRegion Podcast64. Creative Opportunities in South West Wales4theRegion convened an open discussion about the opportunities in South West Wales' creative economy - part of our series of monthly meetups to explore opportunities across different sectors in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. Listen in, as people, businesses and organisations share updates, announcements and perspectives on our creative sector!
2024-03-2047 minThe 4theRegion Podcast63. Local Food on the Public Plate with Edward MorganEdward Morgan from Castell Howell Foods reflects on the real challenges for regional farmers, a sense of despondency among farming families, and the vital importance of supporting local farmers - especially given the vulnerability of our global food supply chains. Ed also describes some of the more complex barriers to local food procurement by public bodies in Wales, and some chinks of light happening in the system - which are very positive, but not enough....
This conversation was recorded by 4theRegion as part of our Public Plate Procurement Learning Journey in partnership with Swansea & NPT PS...
2024-02-2423 minThe 4theRegion Podcast62. Year of Opportunities for South West WalesIn the first of our Monthly Meetups in 2024, Dawn launches 4theRegion's Year of Opportunities, with a call for partners and organisations across South West Wales to share their opportunities through our inclusive cross-sector network.
In this facilitated conversation, participants shared their thoughts about some of our region's diverse opportunities for people, businesses and communities to thrive.
www.4theRegion.org.uk
2024-01-211h 05The 4theRegion Podcast61: Tracking and Reducing Carbon with Huw Watkins from Trac-CIt's time for all businesses to take seriously the need to reduce their carbon emissions - and that starts with measuring your footprint and tracking the change over time. BIC Innovation has partnered with Greener Edge to offer a new commercial solution: Trac-C - a package of support and expertise to help organisations move forward in tackling scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. This is clearly important from a climate perspective, but there are lots of other good reasons for businesses to get started (or continue) their decarbonisation journey in a meaningful way, as Huw Watkins explains in this interview with Dawn Ly...
2023-11-2126 minThe 4theRegion Podcast60: Green Economy Food Roundtable 2023This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. This episode features discussions focusing on the efforts of promoting food resilience in the region.
Register to attend the Green Economy Conference here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/green-economy- conference-south-west-wales-tickets-710300928197
The speakers in the discussion are as follows:
Abi Marriott - PLANED - Pembrokeshire Food Partnership
Mary Duckett...
2023-11-151h 02The 4theRegion Podcast59: Green Economy Nature Roundtable 2023This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. This episode features discussions focusing on the efforts of promoting biodiversity and nature within the region.
Register to attend the Green Economy Conference here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/green-economyconference-south-west-wales-tickets-710300928197
The speakers in the discussion are as follows:
Rhianne Jones - Lead Specialist Advisor, Natural Resources Wales
Huw Williams - Senior T...
2023-11-151h 12The 4theRegion Podcast58. Innovation for a Circular Economy with Gary Walpole from C.E.I.CDawn Lyle speaks to Gary Walpole from CEIC (Circular Economy Innovation Communities) about the success of the project in inspiring behaviour change within public sector organisations in Wales. Now, businesses and third sector organisations can enrol in this game-changing training programme, which is co-hosted by Swansea & Cardiff Universities.
2023-11-1021 minThe 4theRegion Podcast57. 4theRegion: Green Economy Innovation Roundtable 2023This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales.
This episode features discussions focusing on innovations in the green economy. Register to attend the Green Economy Conference here: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/green-economy-conference/
The speakers in the discussion are as follows:
- Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference.
2023-10-2653 minThe 4theRegion Podcast56. 4theRegion: Green Economy Transport Roundtable 2023This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. The episode features discussions focusing on sustainable methods of transport such as rail, community transport, and innovations in the move to greener methods of transport.
The speakers in the discussion are as follows:
- Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference.
- Rich Middleton...
2023-10-1937 minThe 4theRegion Podcast55. 4theRegion: Green Economy Materials Roundtable 2023This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. The episode features discussions on related to materials, waste and the new Workplace Recycling Wales laws coming into effect next year.
The speakers in the discussion are as follows:
- Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference.
- Andy Rees, Head of Waste Strategy...
2023-09-2122 minThe 4theRegion Podcast54. Renewable Energy Roundtable with Low Carbon Swansea BayIn this roundtable discussion, we delve deep into the realm of sustainable energy in South West Wales, shedding light on the inspiring work of renewable champions in the region. Hosted jointly by Low Carbon Swansea Bay and 4theRegion, this episode brings together experts and advocates to explore both the opportunities and barriers in the path to a greener, more sustainable future for Wales.
Short project presentations/updates included:
Awel Aman Tawe
Egni Co-op
Gower Power
Hiraeth Energy
Afallen
Marine Energy Wales
Gwynt Glas
2023-09-201h 09The 4theRegion Podcast53. Accelerating Wales’ Journey to Net Zero with Prof. Jane DavidsonIn this interview, Dawn Lyle discusses with Jane Davidson, Chair of the Net Zero 2035 Challenge Group for Wales, the ambitious project to accelerate Wales’ Net Zero target from 2050 to 2035. Jane explains that the project, titled ‘Wales Net Zero Challenge, 2035’, was initiated from an agreement between the Welsh Labour Government and Plaid Cymru in 2021.
The group aims to provide independent advice on potential pathways to achieving net zero emissions by 2035 (bringing the date forward from 2050), considering the societal and economic impacts and how adverse effects can be mitigated. The project also looks at how costs and benefits can be sha...
2023-09-1423 minThe 4theRegion Podcast52. Gower Grown Veg Project with Castell HowellBwyd Abertawe is Swansea's local food partnership, and is collaborating with 4theRegion and Castell Howell Foods to support an increase in the volume of veg grown on the Gower Peninsular and generally across the Swansea Bay area. This project is part of a wide range of activities across South West Wales which seek to strengthen our local food supply chains and our regional horticultural sector.
This conversation brought together:
Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion
Edward Morgan, Castell Howell Foods
Lucy Hole, Secret Hospitality Group
Ian Chriswick, Gower College
Sarah Gould, Lantra
Richard Bond, Food & Drink Wales
...
2023-09-1251 minThe 4theRegion Podcast51. Green Economy Skills Roundtable 2023Partners from across South West Wales come together to discuss some new initiatives to support the development of green skills across a variety of sectors.
This podcast episode is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. The episode features discussions on various projects and initiatives related to skills development in areas such as renewable energy, construction, digital sector, and more. The focus is on preparing young p...
2023-09-0746 minThe 4theRegion Podcast50. Green Construction and DecarbonisationFollowing the Green Recovery Conference on the 27th June, we brought colleagues together to ask the question: How can South West Wales lead the way in green construction and the decarbonisation of our buildings?
The Green Recovery Conference was held in the Brangwyn Hall with over 160 businesses joining us to discuss a number of solutions to the challenges we face on the road to becoming a greener city. This event was organised around 8 Opportunity Areas, which hosted interactive discussions and provided ideas and solutions to key themes. SPECIFIC hosted the Buildings area and provided some insight into...
2022-07-2252 minThe 4theRegion Podcast49. In Conversation with Marcia SinfieldIn our new series, we'll be exploring the wider question of how we reshape our economy based on what really matters, and why we think attachment to place should be at the heart of how we think about this new economy.
Formerly known as Family Housing, Caredig are a nonprofit registered social landlord (RSL) based in Swansea. Caredig means ‘kind’ in Welsh, and encapsulates their vision of putting people and communities at the heart of what they do. In this episode, Dawn speaks to Marcia Sinfield, Chief Executive of Caredig about their rebrand, what social value means to he...
2022-02-0734 minThe 4theRegion Podcast48. The Three Ps of Social ValueIn our new series, we'll be exploring the wider question of how we reshape our economy based on what really matters, and why we think attachment to place should be at the heart of how we think about this new economy. We're interested in helping to create an economic system that is fit for the 21st century, one that counts more than money, more than GDP, more than profit. So, what do we mean by social value - and how can we support organisations and communities to embrace social value as a new system of accounting for value?
W...
2021-08-3009 min
The 4theRegion Podcast47. Young ChangemakersThis week we're hearing from inspiring young people from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. The future of our region is in the hands of the younger generation, and we're interested in what motivates young people to get involved in changemaking projects and how we can amplify their voices and encourage them to become facilitators of positive change.
We hear from Neath Port Talbot Youth Council member Lola, who has been involved in projects such as Sustainable Schools, which aims to reduce plastic in school canteens and a pilot project involving fruit trees within schools. We also...
2021-07-1220 min
The 4theRegion Podcast46. Investing in SwanseaIt's currently an exciting time to be in Swansea city centre with many developments taking place as part of massive investments, including the Swansea Bay City Deal. We spoke to a few of those involved the transformation of the city centre, including the digital arena, the restoration of the Albert Hall, new and existing community, maker and co-working spaces as well as schemes such as Swansea BID!
2021-07-0549 min
The 4theRegion Podcast45. The Pembrokeshire Perspective with Tegryn JonesTegryn Jones is the Chair of the Pembrokeshire Public Services Board and Chief Executive at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority. We spoke to Tegryn about his involvement with the Pembrokeshire Public Services Board, how the PSB works to improve the longer term well-being of people and communities in Pembrokeshire and key opportunity areas for development across Pembrokeshire.
Public Services Boards (PSBs) seek to bring members of public services, third sector and private sectors together in order to guide the process of delivering key elements of the Well being of Future Generations (Wales) Act and improve the s...
2021-06-2829 min
The 4theRegion Podcast44. Working with the Menopause with Jayne WoodmanJayne Woodman set up The Menopause Team in 2019 to assist employers and employees in establishing significantly better menopause outcomes for women and organisations. With Menopausal women becoming one of the fastest growing demographic in the UK workforce, The Menopause Team provide workshops and strategies to help organisations become more resilient, understanding and supportive.
We spoke to Jayne about the importance of raising awareness, empowering women to thrive in the workplace and enabling employers and colleagues to better understand how to support menopausal employees.
The Menopause Team run awareness sessions, workshops, coaching and provide resources to em...
2021-06-2119 min
The 4theRegion Podcast43. Crowdfunding Insights with Sweet Pickings SwanseaSweet Pickings Swansea / Cyfoeth y Coed Abertawe is a community group tackling food poverty and waste by harvesting unpicked fruit (mainly apples) from trees around the Swansea area. Sweet Pickings have partnered with FareShare to collect and distribute the fruit to 24 organisations addressing food poverty, including Matt's Cafe, the East Side Food Bank and Unity in Diversity and have identified over 70 tree sites to harvest.
We spoke to Anna Williams about the Sweet Pickings Swansea initiative, the rapid growth of the project and the process behind setting up and running a crowdfunding drive. Sweet Pickings Swansea is...
2021-06-1026 min
The 4theRegion Podcast42. Growing Business with Purple Shoots ft. Karen DaviesPurple Shoots Business Lending (“Purple Shoots”) is a not-for-profit micro finance organisation and a registered charity that have been helping people to start their own micro businesses for over six years.
We spoke to founder Karen Davies, about the beginnings of Purple Shoots, the success stories and her passion for helping others and uncovering hidden entrepreneurs.
Purple Shoots: https://purpleshoots.org/
2021-06-0722 min
The 4theRegion Podcast41. Oriel Science Brings Science to the Community with Chris AlltonOriel Science is an exciting project that uses research from Swansea University to engage with the community and inspire people of all ages. Oriel Science had previously launched their first community-engagement project in September 2016 with a pop-up science exhibition, which welcomed over 16,000 members of the public during its 100 opening days. Now Oriel Science is bringing science to the community once again in their new venue on Castle Street, Swansea.
In this episode, Professor Chris Allton, Director of Oriel Science shares the project's aspirations to inspire future generations and to make science accessible. Chris also takes us on...
2021-05-3127 min
The 4theRegion Podcast40. TEDxSwansea: The Big RevealWith many great things happening in Swansea including the City Deal, the new digital arena and other major construction projects, it's the perfect time for the return of TEDxSwansea. TED is a nonprofit organisation devoted to 'Ideas Worth Spreading' with many independently run events across the world.
We spoke to organiser Mark Davies about his ambitions to grow TEDxSwansea to become a flagship event where local talent will have a platform to inspire, educate and entertain. Mark aims to put Swansea on the map with TED and host inspiring talks that our region will be proud of.
2021-05-2425 min
The 4theRegion Podcast39. Building Your Business Back Better with Louis Halton DaviesToday's episode features an inspiring conversation with a friend and member of our alliance Louis Halton Davies, founder of Web Marketer, which is a Carmarthenshire-based digital marketing consultancy.
Having graduated university in graphic design, Louis honed in on his passion for digital marketing, which led him to management of Visit Swansea Bay, taking the website from 100k annual users to over 300k by implementing his skills and enthusiasm for the region before becoming an entrepreneur and creating Web Marketer.
In this episode, hear how Louis came to set up his own business in South West W...
2021-05-1739 min
The 4theRegion Podcast38. Dolen Teifi Community Transport with Rod BowenDolen Teifi are a non-profit organisation and charity which aims to provide affordable and accessible transport to communities within Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. We speak to Dolen Teifi's Development Officer, Rod Bowen about how they're helping people to reach essential community services, how the organisation operates and the importance of community-lead transport, particularly in rural areas.
2021-05-1023 min
The 4theRegion Podcast37. Election Special 2021In this Election Special bonus episode, we're bringing you a recording of the online hustings event hosted by the Wellbeing Economy Alliance for Wales. With the Senedd elections less than one month away, here's your opportunity to meet some of the candidates and hear what they have to say about their vision for Wales.
In particular, do they really understand what we mean when we talk about a Wellbeing Economy? And are they committed to the 7 Wellbeing Goals of Wales' future generations act? Or do they still believe "economic growth" will solve all of Wales' problems? Listen...
2021-04-2259 min
The 4theRegion Podcast36. Power to the People with Ant FlanaganToday we speak to Ant Flanagan, director of Gower Power Co-op CIC. Gower Power is a community co-operative owned and controlled by its members. In Swansea alone, Gower Power have put over £1.5 million of renewable energy assets into community ownership across 3 projects and helped to establish over £2m in social impact funds for the benefit of the Swansea community.
Gower Power are excited to announce a new partnership with Ecotricity to deliver more renewable power to those in the Swansea area. To find out more about this initiative, please attend our event on the 6th May 2021! Further de...
2021-04-1923 min
The 4theRegion Podcast35. Giving Something Back with Dave KieftIn this episode, we speak to Dave Kieft, group director of RD Group, which comprises EFT Consult, RDM Electrical & Mechanical Services and DRS Facilities Management. We're really pleased to have RD Group as members of 4theRegion and helping in our mission to make the region a more prosperous place.
Dave shares his experience in using business as a platform to give back to the community, creating training opportunities, delivering sustainable development projects and partnering with exciting local initiatives such as Garrison Farm, which will deliver charity services and support for veterans.
RDM Electrical: http://www...
2021-04-1232 min
The 4theRegion Podcast34. Building Back for the Future with Andy MiddletonThis week we speak to Andy Middleton from TYF in St. Davids about the importance of not only building back better, but building back in a way that is fit for the future.
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Featuring
Dawn Lyle - 4theRegion
Andy Middleton - TYF, www.tyf.com
2021-03-2942 min
The 4theRegion Podcast33. Green InfrastructureGreen infrastructure is a key part in major developments across our region, including the Biophilic Living Swansea development, community gardens and other regeneration projects across the South West Wales Region. What is considered green infrastructure, what's planned for the region and how can green developments help businesses and communities to build back better?
Featuring:
Dawn Lyle & Zoe Antrobus - 4theRegion
Carwyn Davies - Hacer Developments
Fran Rolfe - Natural Resources Wales
Andrew Collins - Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council
Kate McCabe - Pobl Housing G...
2021-03-2232 min
The 4theRegion Podcast32. What Next For Regional Tourism with Andrew CampbellWith lockdown restrictions slowly being eased in Wales, it's time to consider what this means for the reopening of the visitor economy and tourism sector. We spoke to Andrew Campbell, Chair of the Wales Tourism Alliance about his thoughts on the return of tourism in our region, what preparations businesses must make and the future of tourism and travel for Wales.
2021-03-1534 min
The 4theRegion Podcast31. Investing in Future Skills with Barry LilesDawn Lyle from 4theRegion speaks to Barry Liles OBE, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Skills and Lifelong Learning at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David about the transition to remote learning and teaching, accelerated by the pandemic and the importance of digital and employability skills and maintaining lifelong learning. Are you a learner who has been impacted by the switch to online learning? What opportunities and careers do you think will be available in the future? We hear Barry's perspective in this latest conversation from 4theRegion!
2021-03-0824 minThe 4theRegion Podcast30. Action on Food WasteDawn Lyle and Zoe Antrobus from 4theRegion talk to Puffin Produce, Bluestone Resort, Castell Howell, Pembrokeshire Eco Champions, Matts Cafe and WRAP about food waste in hospitality, retail and in our homes for Food Waste Action Week 2021. Food waste is a massive contributor to climate change - and over 70% of food waste comes from domestic kitchens - so we can all make a difference. Do you peel your potatoes before making mash? Do you know what you can make with the leftovers in your fridge? Perspectives from across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot in this latest conversation fro...
2021-03-0127 min
The 4theRegion Podcast29. Biophilic Living SwanseaBiophilic Living Swansea is a mixed use development that includes affordable and shared ownership housing, as well as retail and commercial space. In this episode, Carwyn Davies, director of Hacer Developments and Andrew Nixon, director of Powell Dobson Architects share an engaging presentation about this innovative development.
The vision for Biophilic Living Swansea is to enable reconnection with nature in the urban environment, and the creation of a cohesive community to tackle issues of social exclusion and loneliness in an innovative way.
This project by Hacer Developments has been designed by Powell Dobson Architects in...
2021-02-1549 min
The 4theRegion Podcast28. A New Currency for Wales with Eifion WilliamsWe speak to Eifion Williams, CEO of Circular Economy Wales about current community projects such as the Community Fridge and Precious Plastics and the launch of Wales' Complementary Currency, the Celyn.
Backed by the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy scheme and inspired by successful economic models in Sardinia and Switzerland, the Celyn is a complementary currency known as a mutual credit system that is exclusive to Wales.
Precious Plastic is an open-source project which helps communities turn the plastic waste in its rivers, streets and beaches into everyday products. The Community Fridge is a public fa...
2021-02-0146 min
The 4theRegion Podcast27. Regional Transport in South West WalesWe need greener, cleaner, healthier and better connected travel and transport for South West Wales, for transport that meets the needs of businesses, serves communities, and improves well-being across the region. In today's roundtable discussion, we are talking about future of transport in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea: What should the government be investing in, what could the local authorities be doing, and how can people, communities and businesses be part of the solution? Join us to discuss all this and more at Moving Forward Together - our regional transport conference for South West Wales on 9th an...
2021-01-2553 min
The 4theRegion Podcast26. Young People & Politics in WalesYoung people aged 16+ will be able to vote in Wales for the first time in the Senedd Elections this year. So we spoke to young people from across Wales about politics, what's important to them, and what they value most. We heard from a passionate and inspiring group of young people from a range of backgrounds, who shared their own opinions and talked about what they're already doing to make a difference - especially on climate and equalities. This will be essential listening for anyone that's interested in how to engage more young people in politics, and in how...
2021-01-181h 01The 4theRegion Podcast25. Resilience Network PembrokeshireCollaboration and connection with all of the amazing organisations that are working across our region is a key theme at 4theRegion and we believe that the power of working together can benefit all. Another organisation focusing on collaborative power is the Rhwydwaith, a resilience network based across Pembrokeshire. Today, director Vicky Moller shares the impact the network has had across communities.
Set up in May 2020, the Rhwydwaith was formed as a result of weekly collaborative meetings between community support groups across Pembrokeshire. As a result, the Rhwydwaith links local businesses, government and communities together in order to...
2021-01-1123 min
The 4theRegion Podcast24.Sustainability at the DVLAWe're delighted that DVLA has come on board as a partner of our alliance. We speak to the DVLA's Senior Sustainability and Travel Services Manager, Rhian Thomas, about the organisations commitments to reducing carbon emissions, increasing on-site biodiversity, sustainable transport methods (such as electric vehicles) and the success of the DVLA's performance against the Greening Government Commitments. #BuildBackBetter
2021-01-0433 min
The 4theRegion Podcast23. Empowering Young People with Bethany RobertsNext year in 2021, the Senedd Elections will mark the first time people aged 16 will be able to vote. That means in May, approximately 200,000 people will be voting for the first time. We need to consider what this means for election campaigns, manifestos and what this means for the future of wales.
Today we're speaking to Bethany Roberts, an inspiring young woman and the Learner Voice Coordinator at Pembrokeshire College. Bethany has been passionate about getting involved in local projects and volunteering since the age of 11 and using her voice to ensure that young people are involved with...
2020-12-1417 min
The 4theRegion Podcast22. Starting Up In The RegionAs a region we need to do what we can to support start ups and entrepreneurs and encourage them to stay within South West Wales.
We speak to one of many entrepreneurs based in our region, creator of Dill delivery service and Swansea University student, Alex-Ioan Coldea. With the support of Swansea University and Young Business Dragons, Alex created Dill, a food ordering platform designed to cut queuing times at university catering venues. In this episode, Alex shares his entrepreneurial journey with us.
We also hear from Kelly Jordan, Kath Penaluna and Kim Mamhende, who a...
2020-12-071h 01
The 4theRegion Podcast21. Innovating Active Buildings with Joanna ClarkeThis week we speak to Joanna Clarke, Design Manager of Swansea University's SPECIFIC project. SPECIFIC focuses on energy technologies and systems, from the fundamental science of materials and products to full-scale demonstration on buildings. These principles link together in one design concept called Active Buildings, in which buildings are designed to generate, store and release their own renewable energy. We discuss with Joanna the challenges that designers face when designing energy efficient buildings and how innovative projects such as SPECIFIC can lay the foundation for greener, cleaner housing.
Joanna has developed the ‘Active Buildings Toolkit’ in order...
2020-11-3024 min
The 4theRegion Podcast20. Digital SkillsIf there's one sector that may have been resilient throughout the pandemic, it would be the digital sector. For other sectors, those who quickly embraced technology, digital skills and remote working have been in a better position compared to those who haven't. Digital skills are a key growth sector for our region and there are many opportunities for people to find a career in the digital sector.
How can we grow this sector and ensure that people are aware of the opportunities to develop their skills and what does our region need to be doing in order...
2020-11-231h 11
The 4theRegion Podcast19. Inspiring Entrepreneurs with Rachael FlanaganRachael Flanagan founded Mrs Buckét Cleaning Services at the age of 18, starting with a mop and £20 of promotional flyers. Rachael has worked hard over 15 years to grow her business and today Mrs Buckét employs over 250 people across Wales and the South West of England. Rachael is passionate about helping others and positive collaboration, mentoring other entrepreneurs and small business owners. In this inspiring episode, we speak to Rachael about the personal and professional growths she has discovered from entrepreneurship, what drives her and advice for budding business owners. #BuildBackBetter
2020-11-1631 min
The 4theRegion Podcast18. Wellbeing at WorkTaking care of our physical and mental wellbeing are even more important than ever. In this episode, we're having an interesting conversation about how organisations across South West Wales have managed the challenges of maintaining staff health and wellbeing during the pandemic, whether working at home or in the office, shop, or teaching environment. We discuss different structures put in place to help employees get the support they may need, whether it be signposting to an external service or company support.
2020-11-091h 09
The 4theRegion Podcast17. Manifesto for the Future with Sophie HoweWith less than 200 days to go until the Senedd Election, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales Sophie Howe is proud to have launched her ‘Manifesto for the Future’, providing key recommendations that Sophie believes political parties should consider within their manifesto work.
In this episode, we speak to Sophie about her role and her prorities as Future Generations Commissioner for Wales during an important time where the need to rethink and replan for the future is vital. We discuss many of the findings and recommendations in her ‘Manifesto for the Future’ which seek to highlight how we can recov...
2020-10-2642 min
The 4theRegion Podcast16. Renewable EnergyRenewable energy is a key growth sector for our region, with ideal locations across Wales, such as the coastline and mountains allowing for tidal and wind to generate our power. We speak to a number of key businesses and organisations within the renewable energy sector about what is currently happening and what needs to happen in order to enable growth within the sector and allow wider access to clean, green power.
The UK & Welsh governments have made commitments to bring carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, with Wales' target to achieve a net zero carbon p...
2020-10-191h 08
The 4theRegion Podcast15. Room to Grow with Ange BettanyWith lockdown giving people with a lot more free time, some have dedicated themselves towards growing fresh fruits and vegetables. Ange Bettany, who runs Hoogah café in the Uplands, Swansea, saw this time as an opportunity to transform unused spaces around her community, turning them into vibrant growing spaces and encouraging engagement with her local community. Room to Grow is a permaculture project dedicated to self-sufficiency and community unity and aims to turn concrete jungles into edible oases. We speak to Ange about how the project pilot scheme progressed, the challenges she has faced and what next steps she a...
2020-10-0535 min
The 4theRegion Podcast14. Business and Community Collaboration with Julie JonesThis week, we speak to 4theRegion member Julie Jones, co-director of Gower Gas & Oil, about how businesses can benefit community cohesion in order to create a positive relationship between businesses and local well-being.
Julie shares her experience with projects that Gower Gas & Oil have supported, such as the 'Don't Dance Alone' campaign hosted by The Wave to highlight some of the difficulties currently facing older people in Wales and the creation of the Gower Isolation Support Group, a community group designed to coordinate support and information during the Covid-19 crisis.
Don't Dance Alone: ht...
2020-09-2145 min
The 4theRegion Podcast13. South West Wales Community Rail PartnershipSouth West Wales Connected is a new Community Rail Partnership established by Transport for Wales and hosted by 4theRegion. We speak to Jennifer Barfoot, who was appointed as Community Rail Officer earlier this year, about how she has been progressing in the role and the connections she has made during socially distanced meetings. We also speak to Becky Lloyd about her Community Bunting Challenge project and how it has manifested a spin-off project called Love This Place, coordinated by South West Wales Connected CRP. #BuildBackBetter
2020-09-0732 min
The 4theRegion Podcast12. Connecting to Kindness with Wyndham WilliamsDawn speaks to Wyndham Williams about the Connect to Kindness campaign, set up to encourage kindness in the workplace, at home and throughout the community. Wyndham also shares his Tinman Tuesdays project, which supports the community food bank in Narberth by safely collecting tins from people's driveway.
Connect to Kindness website: https://connecttokindness.wales/
Tinman Tuesday: https://www.facebook.com/tinmantuesday/
View the infographic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVIdTjCuMio&
2020-08-3119 min
The 4theRegion Podcast11. Regional ProcurementWe speak to various businesses and organisations from across South West Wales about regional #Procurement. If businesses and organisations in this region buy more from each other, we can keep more wealth here in South West Wales, develop our supply chain, and create more opportunities for people and local businesses. How can we encourage reorganisation of local economies, post-COVID, in order to maintain wealth recirculating within the region? #BuildBackBetter
2020-08-241h 18
The 4theRegion Podcast10. Swansea City Bay Deal with Jonathan BurnesIn this episode, we speak to Swansea Bay City Deal Programme Director, Dr. Jonathan Burnes about his new role and what's currently happening in the City Deal office, including the Swansea Waterfront Digital District and the Yr Egin creative and digital cluster in Carmarthen, as well as future plans for the deal. We discuss with Jonathan his hopes for the future of South West Wales, what he'd love to see and what the impact of COVID-19 has on city deal projects.
2020-08-1746 min
The 4theRegion Podcast09. Skills and Jobs of the FutureWe spoke to different educational providers throughout the region about how we can help school and college leavers to maximise their experience through work experience, further education and apprenticeships and explore what is currently offered, as well as future plans on how to further support young people in learning. Furthermore, there's a strong importance to retaining skilled young people within the region in order to capture what South West Wales has to offer for future generations.
In this episode, we explore how important it is to continue supporting the future education and careers of young people.
2020-08-1057 min
The 4theRegion Podcast08. Reconstructing the Economy with Jeremy MilesDawn speaks to Jeremy Miles MS, Counsel General for Wales and Brexit Minister and Member of the Senedd for Neath, about actions that the Welsh government have been taking during lockdown in order to reconstruct the Welsh economy.
We face huge, unprecedented challenges in the near future and that journey should not rely heavily on a 'back to normal' approach. As the government works through the course of recovery, the approach will be committed towards social, economic and environmental justice under the Well-Being of Future Generations Act.
In May, Jeremy issued an in...
2020-08-0343 min
The 4theRegion Podcast07. Nature Has Rights Too with Jane Davidson #FuturegenAnyone who wants to see a greener, more prosperous, lower carbon, more equal and healthier future for Wales, and for the planet, owes a debt of gratitude to Jane Davidson, former Welsh Government Minister and erstwhile Pro VC of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, for her pioneering work to embed sustainable development and one-planet principles at the heart of decision making in Wales.
In her new book, '#FutureGen, Lessons from a Small Country', Jane Davidson recounts Wales' journey towards the creation of the The Wellbeing of Future Generations Act of 2015, which was th...
2020-07-2744 min
The 4theRegion Podcast06. What Next For Swansea High Street?Swansea High Street has been the focus of redevelopment efforts by many creative businesses and organisations. What has been the effect on the High Street as a result of lockdown and how can we re-encourage people to safely visit once again? In this roundtable discussion, we invited High Street-based businesses to share their thoughts on transforming the area described as the gateway to the city.
2020-07-211h 02
The 4theRegion Podcast05. Community Growing and Local FoodWhat has been the effect on our shopping habits, priorities and values surrounding food as a result of the lockdown? How do we scale up community growing and local food initiatives, and what does the sector need to achieve these goals? In this roundtable discussion, we explore how we can make locally produced food more accessible to communities in rural and urban areas alike, along with the wellbeing and social benefits of community garden spaces.
2020-07-1357 min
The 4theRegion Podcast04. Cohesive Communities with Iwan ThomasPembrokeshire-based PLANED is one of the organisations committed to making a difference across our region, by improving the quality of life of communities through focusing on their opportunities, potential and helping them to achieve their aspirations. We spoke to the CEO of PLANED, Iwan Thomas, about the communities they work with, projects they are running and what he sees as the priorities for Pembrokeshire and the wider region as we emerge from lockdown.
2020-07-0943 min
The 4theRegion Podcast03. The Return to WorkAs we begin to reopen the economy, we discussed with businesses and major employers about how we’re going to return to work, and what work looks like now. We explored the possibility of these changes remaining and the longer term impacts for commercial property, transport planning, jobs, and wellbeing. Has the novelty of “working from home” worn off, or could we see more remote working even when offices re-open?
2020-07-0650 min
The 4theRegion Podcast02. Local Food with Ben ReynoldsWe spoke to Dr. Ben Reynolds of Urban Foundry about his new initiative, South Wales Food & Drink, intended to provide a central resource for producers to promote themselves and for people across the region to discover and access fantastic local producers. As we emerge from lockdown and begin to feel the reality of its economic impacts, there is one thing we can all do, to support our region’s recovery – and that’s to buy regional.
2020-07-0220 min
The 4theRegion Podcast01. Waste & the Circular EconomyLet's talk about our wasteful consumer culture, what we can do about it, and the opportunities to build businesses in the circular economy. Meet Smile Plastics, an amazing company based on Gower, turning yogurt pots (among other things) into beautiful new materials. And hear about the plans from Cwm Environmental, to create a circular economy enterprise hub in Carmarthenshire. Plus, we're joined by Andy Rees, head of Waste Strategy in Welsh Government.
2020-06-281h 05The 4theRegion Podcast00. IntroductionWelcome to a new series of online conversations from 4theRegion! In this introductory episode, Dawn Lyle sets out our shared challenge and our collective mission: to build back better, post lockdown, to create sustainable development and a wellbeing economy here in South West Wales.
2020-06-2205 min