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In this conversation, Lorelei talks to Nia Thomas, Head of Culture Development from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, about what it really takes to build a healthy workplace culture in healthcare – one where staff feel safe, supported and empowered. Drawing on her extensive experience in organisational culture, Nia explores how culture is shaped by everyone, not just leadership, and why psychological safety is such a vital foundation for effective teams. She shares honest reflections on the challenges staff face at every level and highlights the importance of compassionate communication, modelling positive behaviours and creating environments where people feel able to speak up.

Nia shares how small, everyday interactions, reflective practice and curiosity can gradually shift culture in meaningful ways, and why strong relationships and trust are essential in complex health systems. The episode is grounded, practical and full of insight for anyone working to improve wellbeing, teamwork and equity in healthcare. This episode is a must-listen for managers, leaders, health educators and frontline professionals committed to building healthier, safer and more compassionate workplaces.

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In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at something most of us slip into without meaning to - spending workdays sitting still. Imogen is joined by Anna Quinn, Wellbeing Officer at Bangor University, to talk about how this “desk-bound culture” crept in, what it’s doing to our energy and focus, and why moving more during the day doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming.

Together, we explore the small, realistic changes anyone can try — from walking meetings and standing tasks to using tech creatively and building short movement breaks back into busy schedules. We also discuss the personal side of movement: how our habits form, what gets in the way, and the surprising ways that tiny bits of activity can boost mood, concentration and overall wellbeing.

It’s a relaxed, practical conversation full of real-life examples, small wins and encouragement for anyone wanting to feel better at work — one simple movement at a time.

Additional Resources from Anna:

Active Workplace Champion Training | Bangor University

Reading list:

In Praise of Walking : The new science of how we walk and why it’s good for us: Shane O'Mara: 9781784707576: hive.co.uk

The book is also available in BU library for staff and students to borrow: https://library.bangor.ac.uk/permalink/44WHELF_BANG/6bc255/alma991005270698502422

Paper by ML Griffiths at Public Health Wales on changes to activity levels of home-workers during Covid:

(PDF) Exploring the health impacts and inequalities of the new way of working: findings from a cross-sectional study

Physical Literacy Across the Lifecourse by Margaret Whitehead – compulsory reading for anyone wanting to learn about Physical Literacy:

Physical Literacy: Throughout the Lifecourse - 1st Edition - Margaret

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In this episode of the Health Equity Podcast, host Dr Lorelei Jones sits down with Dr Carys Stringer, Health Economist at Bangor University and a member of the newly launched Women’s Health Research Centre.

Together, they reflect on the College of Medicine and Health’s Women’s Health Symposium held at Pontio, Bangor University (17th September 2025). The event brought together researchers, clinicians, policymakers and the public to address inequalities in women’s health across the life course.

Carys shares her insights from keynote talks and presentations, ranging from endometriosis and cervical screening access to intersectionality, community-based domestic abuse programmes, and the value of meaningful co-production. The conversation highlights the breadth of research showcased at the symposium, the importance of collaboration, and how patient and public voices are shaping the future of women’s health in Wales.

This episode also explores the Welsh Government’s new Women’s Health Plan, including the introduction of dedicated Women’s Health Hubs set to transform access to care.

A fantastic discussion of another inspiring event – and a reminder of why advancing women’s health research and equity matters for all of us.

Just a quick note: during the episode, “Fair Treatment for the Women of Wales” was accidentally introduced as “Fair Trade for the Women of Wales.” Our slip of the tongue! We wanted to make sure to give the correct name here and acknowledge the brilliant work they do.