What the Friday Youth Podcast

Episode 18: The 'Politics' episode

Politics might seem boring, confusing, or just not your thing—but what if we told you it affects nearly everything in your life? From school to social justice, climate change to cost of living, your voice matters more than you think.
In this episode, the hosts sits down with Evie and Lewis, two former youth councillors, to break down why politics isn’t just for adults in suits. We cover what politics really is, how global events shape your day-to-day life, and how young people can influence change—locally and nationally.
No boring lectures. No political party bias. Just real talk about how you can get informed, get involved, and make a difference.
Why should you vote?
How can you spot political bias on social media?
What is the UK Youth Parliament and how do you get involved?
Whether you're already a young activist or someone who’s never voted, this episode is for you.
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 17: The 'Motivation' episode

Staying motivated isn’t easy – especially when you're juggling stress, self-doubt, distractions (we see you, TikTok), or just trying to get through the week.
In this episode, we’re joined by Georgina, a Wellbeing Practitioner & Engagement Lead at Invictus Wellbeing, to unpack the truth about motivation: what it is, how it works, and how you can build it.
From the science behind SMART goals and why routines matter, to the power of small wins and why "yet" is the most underrated word in your vocabulary — we’re serving up real talk, practical advice, and motivation tips that actually work.
Expect podcast team honesty, laughs, and plenty of relatable moments (like when spots appear at the worst time). Plus, we talk about supportive mates, productive playlists, and how to block out distractions when you need to get things DONE.
Topics include:
Is motivation a feeling or a skill?
The 5 key things that help you stay on track
Why social support might be your secret weapon
Positive thinking, progress tracking & cheesy but powerful quotes
If you’ve ever felt stuck, unmotivated, or like you’re failing - this episode is for you. Whether you’re chasing big dreams or just trying to finish that essay, remember: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” 
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 16: The 'Confidence' episode

Join Smiruti, Sahitra, Sam, Verity, Ben and Brandon and they meet Jonathan from Loudspeaker - a youth speaker who helps teens and young adults boost their confidence.
Jonathan shares his honest experiences and discusses how even he gets nervous at times. He has a bag full of top tips and at a number of points, turns from interviewee to interviewer as he puts the hosts on the spot and asks them a number of difficult questions!
Questions discussed include: 
• What is confidence and why does it matter?
• Why does self-doubt hold people back from speaking up?
• and, how can you build confidence if you’re naturally shy?
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 15: Apprenticeships + Youth Motivational Speaker

In this week's episode, Daryoush speaks to Tamara at Kirklees College about Apprenticeships and Josh speaks to Claire about becoming a motivational youth speaker. 
 
If you would like to become a youth speaker why not consider these steps:
1. Define Your Message
Think about:
What issue or experience do you care deeply about?
What do you want others to learn or feel?
What change do you want to inspire?
2. Develop Your Speaking Skills
Practice your story or talk out loud.
Join speaking groups like:
https://speakerstrust.org/
English Speaking Union https://www.esu.org 
Take part in school debates, assemblies, or talent shows.
Record yourself and reflect on tone, clarity, and confidence.
3. Get Involved in Youth Voice Opportunities
These organisations offer real platforms for youth to speak up:
British Youth CouncilOpportunities to join youth panels, campaigns, and UK Youth Parliament.https://nya.org.uk/byc/
UK Youth Parliament (Run by BYC)Stand for election or get involved in debates at the House of Commons.https://nya.org.uk/ukyp/
The Diana AwardYouth-led programmes and ambassador opportunities.https://diana-award.org.uk/
YoungMinds Activists ProgrammeBecome a youth mental health advocate and speak on national platforms.https://www.youngminds.org.uk/support-us/join-the-movement/become-a-youngminds-activist/
If you would like help finding out more and applying for an apprenticeship:
1. Search your local college such as Kirklees College, Calderdale College or a college near you. 
2. Visit the GOV.UK – Find an Apprenticeship site
This is the official government portal where you can search and apply for apprenticeships across England. You can filter opportunities by location, industry, and level. Creating an account allows you to save vacancies, set up alerts, and track your applications. https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
2. UCAS – Apprenticeships
UCAS offers a platform to explore apprenticeship options alongside traditional university courses. You can compare different pathways and find the one that suits you best.
https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships
3. Local Careers Services
Contact your local careers services such as C+K Careers or visit local apprenticeship events as these are usually attended by organisations that are looking to recruit young people
https://ck.mydirections.co.uk/
4. National Careers Service
Provides guidance on choosing the right apprenticeship, writing applications, and preparing for interviews. They also offer personalized advice through their helpline and webchat services.
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/

Episode 14: Resitting English & Maths + Peer Pressure

In this episode Sean talks about the benefits of going back to college to re-study English and Maths and we also speak to Callum, who as a victim of peer pressure ended up being suspended from college. Both talk personally about the challenges they are facing and how they are overcoming them.
Links for studying English and Maths:
If you are thinking about returning to college these are are our top tips: 
Assess Your Needs: Determine whether you prefer in-person or online learning.
Explore Local Colleges: Contact institutions like Kirklees College https://www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk/ or Calderdale College https://www.calderdale.ac.uk/ to inquire about enrollment. You can view available courses on their website (they might be listed under Adult 19+ courses). Alternatively search other colleges in your area. 
Contact local careers services like C+K Careers or the careers service in your area. 
Utilise National Resources: Use the National Careers Service https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/ to find courses and get advice.
Prepare with Online Tools: Search YouTube or the internet for free resources to build your confidence before starting formal courses.
If you are unemployed and claiming benefits, discuss this with you work coach as they might be able to point you in the right direction for local support. 
If you're under 25 and feeling pressured by friends or peers to do something that doesn't feel right—or you're worried you might get into trouble—it's important to know you're not alone, and there are organisations ready to support you. Here are some trusted UK-based services that can help:
Confidential Support & Advice
ChildlineA free, confidential service for anyone under 19. You can talk to a trained counsellor about anything, including peer pressure, bullying, or making difficult choices.Call 0800 1111 (24/7)https://www.childline.org.uk/
YoungMindsA mental health charity offering advice on coping with peer pressure, anxiety, and making healthy choices. Their blog includes real stories and practical tips from young people.https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
The MixA digital support service for under-25s covering everything from peer pressure to relationships and legal advice. Offers a free helpline, live chat, and group chats.Call 0808 808 4994 (4 pm–11 pm daily)themix.org.uk
If You're in Immediate Danger
If you're in a situation where you feel unsafe or at risk of harm, it's crucial to seek immediate help:
Emergency Services: Call 999
Childline: Call 0800 1111
Samaritans: Call 116 123 (available 24/7)
Remember, it's okay to say no, and you have the right to make choices that are best for you. If you're unsure or need someone to talk to, these organisations are here to support you.

Episode 13: The Christmas Episode

For our final episode of the year our hosts have decided to do it live and unscripted!
Our hosts answer all the main Christmas questions that young people are asking including: How do you buy Christmas presents on a budget? What do you have for your Christmas dessert? And Tinsel – yes or no?
Series 2 will drop in 2025 and if you’d like to be involved (either with content or to involve your cohort of young people) please drop us a message.
Until then, we hope you have a great holiday and a happy new year.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 12: Creative Careers

In this week’s episode we look at creative careers and firstly speak to five local professionals who are earning a living in the creative sector and then Daniel speaks to Andy about how an aspiring creative can get into the sector.
We have used snippets from our Exploring Careers podcast which feature longer interviews. The long-form interviews also feature contributions from careers experts Scott and Amy from C+K, who provide great insight into how you can get into the sector yourself. The full interviews can be found on our sister podcast – The Youth Social Podcast: 
Mel talks about her career in film and TV as a hair, make up and prosthetics expert. 
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Richard (joined by Sophie from HCMF) talks about his career as a professional musician.
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Rebecca from the LBT talks about careers in theatre
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Julia from Upcycle fashion discusses careers in textiles
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And finally, Pete shares his experiences as a freelance illustrator.
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Daniel’s interview with Andy was funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 11: 'Choose Well' - Looking after your health this winter

In this week’s episode we look at how you can ‘choose well’ and what you can do to look after your physical and mental health.
We are joined by Amanda who is a pharmacy manager and India who is a psychological wellbeing practitioner for NHS Talking Therapies in Calderdale.
 
What can you do to choose well this winter?
 
Consider using a pharmacy rather than visiting A&E or your GP.
 
Items that you should have in your home first aid kit:  https://togetherwe-can.com/stay-well/
Information about pharmacies and how they can help: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/how-pharmacies-can-help/
Link to NHS Service Finder to find a pharmacy that offers the contraceptive pill without a prescription: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/find-a-pharmacy-offering-contraceptive-pill-without-prescription/
Information about antibiotic resistance: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antibiotics/antibiotic-antimicrobial-resistance/
 
Look after your mental health
 
Where to get urgent help for mental health https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/where-to-get-urgent-help-for-mental-health/
Get help from 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option.
Access the Samaritans - Call 116123
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Text "SHOUT" to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line, or text "YM" if you're under 19
If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.
 
Remember: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
it is a life threatening emergency
someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose
you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe
A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time.
 
Special thanks to:
Calderdale Cares Partnership https://www.calderdalecares.co.uk/,
VAC https://www.cvac.org.uk/ 
NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board https://www.westyorkshire.icb.nhs.uk/
For their help and support in making this episode. 
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 10: HPV Immunisation & Volunteering

In this week’s episode we look at the benefits of having the HPV immunisation and speak to a young adult who has turned his life around through volunteering.
 
HPV vaccination
NHS information on HPV vaccine:
https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/hpv-vaccine/
 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
 
We’d like to thank Locala https://www.locala.org.uk for their support with this podcast.
 
Volunteering
If you would like further information on volunteering type “Volunteering opportunities near me” into Google.
 
Opportunities in Calderdale can be found here: https://new.calderdale.gov.uk/jobs/volunteering/volunteering-opportunities
 
Opportunities in Kirklees can be found here:
https://tslkirklees.org.uk/volunteering-roles/
 
Thank you to Project Colt for their help in producing this podcast. https://www.projectcolt.org.uk
 
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
 

Episode 9: Into Work Special pt2

In our second Into Work Special we look at whether the recruitment process is weighted against young people from minority groups and how to set up a business and be self employed.
Chloe spoke to Shauna who is Head of People Services from Kirklees Council to get a first-hand account of really happens when you apply for a job  
In our second interview Sienna talks to Jane who mentors people who are setting up their own business – to find out more about becoming self employed.
 
Here’s a list of helpful resources for young people looking to start a business or become self-employed in the UK:
The King’s Trust (formerly the Prince’s Trust)Offers support for 18 to 30-year-olds with business ideas, including training, mentoring, and help with writing business plans. Financial support is available in the form of low-interest loans.The King's Trust Website​  
AD:VENTURE provides ambitious new businesses in West Yorkshire with a tailored programme of support to help to them grow.
https://www.ad-venture.org.uk
Barclays LifeSkillsAimed at 16 to 25-year-olds, this platform provides resources to understand self-employment, including legal and tax considerations, and practical tips to get started.Barclays LifeSkills​
MoneyHelperGuides individuals on the essentials of starting a business, from registering with HMRC to managing finances and understanding insurance.MoneyHelper Website​
British Library Business & IP CentreFree access to market research reports, company data, intellectual property advice, and workshops at various locations in the UK.Business & IP Centre
Youth Business International (YBI)Offers mentoring, financial support, and technical training through a global network of partners, including UK-specific initiatives like Virgin StartUp and UnLtd for social entrepreneurs.Youth Business International​
Startups.co.ukA comprehensive guide on starting a business, covering business planning, funding, mentoring, and accelerator programs.Startups UK​
Gov.uk Business SupportA central hub for business support, including funding options, grants, and guidance tailored to new entrepreneurs.GOV.UK Business Support​
 
These resources provide advice, financial support, and practical tools to help you navigate the early stages of entrepreneurship.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.