The Power of Listening: Insights from our Unmasking Gendered Poverty Podcast
With series one of our Unmasking Gendered Poverty podcast now completed we reflected on the impact of the show with Rutendo Ngwena who is the podcast’s host and Programme Manager of the Gendered Poverty Learning Programme, which is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and managed by Smallwood Trust.
What were the initial goals of the podcast, and how have they evolved?
The podcast initially aimed to support the Gendered Poverty Learning Programme by sharing insights that could influence grant-making practices, particularly in the women’s sector. Over time, it has also become a tool to amplify the importance of the women’s sector and to demystify the grant-making sector. We’ve found that having a new way of discussing our work openly has further humanised us as a funder, and made us more approachable. Additionally, the podcast has highlighted the critical, life-saving work our partners are doing, which often goes unnoticed.
What kind of feedback have you received since the podcast launched?
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve had specific instances where organisations, including some of our grant partners, have asked to reference the podcast in their meetings and on their platforms. This indicates that the material is being used to influence decision-making, which is incredibly encouraging.
What were your biggest takeaways from producing the podcast?
One unexpected takeaway is how the podcast serves as a neutral, educational platform. It allows conversations to unfold without anyone feeling the need to immediately respond with an opposing view, which contrasts with the often tense environments where these discussions typically take place. This neutral space makes it easier for people to engage with the material thoughtfully and consider the issues at their own pace.
How has the podcast impacted your role and the work of Smallwood Trust?
The podcast has infused creativity into our team, encouraging us to explore different ways to communicate and share our work. It’s also increased recognition of our efforts and further humanised the role of funders in the sector. The relationships we continue to build off the back of the podcast have been particularly rewarding.
How has the support from the National Lottery Community Fund impacted the podcast?
The National Lottery Community Fund has been incredibly supportive, offering us the trust and flexibility to lead with our ideas. Their funding has been crucial in enabling us to produce the podcast and disseminate our learnings effectively. It’s a great example of a trusting, collaborative relationship between a funder and grantee which is something that we, as a funder to others, really value and practice.
How would you like the listeners of the podcast to take action?
For funders, I would encourage them to invest more in the women’s sector, either by funding directly or partnering with us. For grassroots organisations, I urge them to speak more about the impactful work they’re doing, and we’re open to helping them amplify their voices through our podcast. For individuals, I hope they become more curious and engaged with women’s organisations and consider how they can help impact the funding for these crucial services.
The podcast’s impact grows with its audience, so sharing it widely is crucial. This is our pilot season, and we need everyone’s help to ensure it reaches as many people as possible.
To listen to the Unmasking Gendered Poverty podcast please visit: https://www.smallwoodtrust.org.uk/unmasking-gendered-poverty-podcast/
