Walsall Voices Podcast
Walsall Voices Podcast
Walsall Voices podcast – a series of inspiring conversations with people who live and work in Walsall. These are the voices of success, resilience, and community spirit, offering advice and insight for others navigating their own journeys in the borough, closely linking to the key ambitions of the WAW2040 long term vision.
Ready to dive in? Explore our episodes below.
Changing Lives through Football - Episode 7
Adam Davy explore his journey from a love of sport to leading one of the borough’s most impactful community organisations
The Gym saved my life - Episode 6
Craig opens up about the personal challenges that shaped his early life and how stepping into the gym didn’t just transform him — it saved him.
From Lip Balms to Business - Episode 5
Becky Shuck shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Walsall to becoming a successful entrepreneur.
Kid from Walsall - Episode 4
From growing up in Darlaston to going viral on Instagram & TikTok, Nayra J’s message is clear: be proud of where you’re from!
Rejected to Respected - Episode 3
Rejected to Respected featuring the incredible Prof Yaa Victorine Ngamsha.
Champions for Life - Episode 2
Sacha speaks with Gavin Burrows, founder of Trojan Martial Arts, about his journey from Walsall Wood to building a thriving martial arts community.
Our Wrestling Family - Episode 1
"Our Wrestling Family" — tags in two of Walsall’s very own grapplers, Matt & Elise Powell.
Our Latest Episode
In this episode, Sacha speaks with Joel Rushton, Young Active Citizen of the Year Award winner and a Lived Experience Panelist at the inaugural We Are Walsall 2040 conference in 2025. Joel shares his personal journey through autism and anxiety, offering a powerful first-hand perspective on the importance of early diagnosis.
Together, Joel and his mother Alison reflect on the ongoing challenges they’ve faced, the importance of finding effective coping strategies, and the crucial role of strong advocacy from both family and professionals. Alison offers her perspective as a parent, reflecting on the determination, support, and resilience needed to help Joel navigate his journey.
Joel shares his future ambitions, including his love of animals and his aspiration to work in conservation and environmental protection—a powerful reminder of how important it is to nurture each individual’s strengths and passions to help them truly thrive.