If you’re a podcaster lover with no time to indulge in a book, if your interests surround the world of women then tuning into BBC’s Women’s Hour podcast could change your life.
Jenni Murray introduces listeners to various topics covering issues encompassed in women’s lives in every episode, the bad, the good and the ugly. As a regular listener of WH, one particular podcast grabbed my attention as it explored issues I hadn’t even thought about before. I think the most impressive thing about WH, is their scope of discussion and ideas. It's considerably much wider when reviewing other podcasts of similar audiences.
The first half of the episode explored the industrial action Northern Ireland nurses took for the first time
in 103 years. Murray gave a generic, yet useful overview of the 12-hour strike occurring due to poor working conditions, staffing issues and gender equality. The facts were so striking and also delivered in such a way that they spoke for themselves.
Rita Devlin, spokes-women for the strike stated: “The condition has deteriorated beyond a level we were able to do nothing”. From the tone of her voice alone, it enabled listeners to gauge just how awful the working conditions really are - something I hadn’t given much thought to. The beauty of WH is that it is a really easy listen whilst remaining educational and insightful. I usually listen as I drive or travel as it keeps my mind stimulated.
Devlin used the phrase “traumatised nurses” when describing how previous patients were sat on chairs with oxygen marks and IV drips due to the lack of beds. Devlin stated: “Strike was the only option” This was frankly heart-breaking. It really makes you feel empathetic towards anyone experiencing this treatment, whether it be at work or as a patient. Imagine this was a loved one left in the corridor due to a lack of space, it really does hit home.
I suppose this is why I enjoyed Devlin’s interview so much, it was engaging for absolutely everyone, not just the regular listeners of BBC 4. Devlin stated facts clearly whilst remaining calm despite the subject being close to her heart. As a listener, it put into perspective just how amazing and important our NHS and their employees are. Devlin used figures to really depict the bleak situation. She stated that the NI health service are around 3000 nurses short, again letting the facts do the talking.
The way the interview tastefully touched on the controversial issue of gender equality irrespective of it being a ‘Women’s Hour’ programme, was impressive. Devlin elaborated stating that men have a “significantly quicker rise to the top” meanwhile “women are kept at the bottom” - strong statements but said calmly and confidently. It's easy for a show like this to get carried away with girl 'girl power' and slandering males, but I find with WH, it's always respectful.
Next up, Murray delved into the challenges autistic women face during pregnancy and motherhood. Two listeners came forward about their personal journeys, something I believe the audience will have admired them for.
The episode gave rise to my own thoughts I didnt even know were there - possibly my favourite thing about WH. It was very informative for women who have been through pregnancies whilst dealing with various challenges, not just autism but mental health too. The two interviews gave different viewpoints – one during pregnancy and one post pregnancy. This has the potential to give others confidence in that they aren't alone in motherhood.
WH has the ability to assist in delving deeper into situations that are so relatable which is why I will continue listening and learning.