In episode of Diverse Talk Matters, host Natasha Broomfield-Reed sits down with Richard Wade and Luise Usiskin to explore the realities of LGB parenting in the UK. Richard, a freelance musician and father of two adopted boys, shares his journey through adoption and co-parenting.

Louise, an equality, diversity and inclusion consultant, reflects on her experience navigating IVF as a lesbian couple and the systemic barriers she and her wife faced.

Together, they discuss:

- The evolution of adoption rights for same-sex couples
- Navigating IVF and healthcare systems built on heterosexual models
- Everyday assumptions, stereotypes, and microaggressions faced by LGB parents
- The importance of inclusive schools, supportive communities, and representation
- How confidence, resilience, and networks help families thrive

This episode is a candid, insightful, and often humorous conversation about parenting, equality, and the ongoing need to challenge outdated systems.

Whether you’re a parent, ally, or advocate, you’ll find inspiration in their stories of love, perseverance, and inclusion.

You can also watch this podcast on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLP_SauivNQ

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In this episode, Tash speaks with activist and equality advocate Natasha Johnson, co-founder of All Black Lives UK and EDI lead at St Basil’s Youth Homelessness Charity.

Natasha reflects on the youth-led protests of 2020 following George Floyd’s murder and shares how she and her peers mobilised thousands across the UK to demand justice and systemic change.

They explore:

- The ongoing realities of racism and discrimination in 2026
- The difference between being “not racist” and actively anti-racist
- Performative allyship vs meaningful action
- Intersectional challenges facing young people experiencing homelessness, immigration barriers, and racial trauma
- Why bravery and collective action are essential to dismantling systemic inequality

This episode is a candid, thought-provoking conversation about why Black Lives still matter, the importance of sustained activism, and the urgent need for allies to move beyond words into action.

🔗 You can also access the audio via our website homepage or watch on our YouTube Channel – and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes tackling diversity, equity, and inclusion.

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

Or connect with us on social media

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Thank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.

Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.

In this episode of Diverse Talk Matters, we’re diving into one of the most important and fast-moving conversations of our time: disability, accessibility and artificial intelligence.

Natasha Broomfield-Reid is joined by David Banes, a global leader in accessibility, assistive technology and inclusive innovation, with over 40 years of experience working at the intersection of disability, education, policy and emerging technology. David shares his deep insight into how AI can be a powerful enabler for disabled people, while also unpacking the very real risks if inclusion and equity are not built in from the start.

Together, we explore what AI gets right, where it falls short, and why bias, data, transparency and decision-making systems matter so much for disabled people. From recruitment and employment to healthcare, assistive technology and everyday workplace tools, this conversation cuts through the hype to focus on what meaningful, accessible innovation really looks like.

We also discuss the myths around cost and complexity, the importance of lived experience in AI design, and why prompt-writing and critical thinking are becoming essential skills for everyone. David offers practical reflections on how organisations, employers and disabled people themselves can engage with AI in ways that support independence, inclusion and opportunity, rather than exclusion and harm.

This is an honest, thought-provoking and hopeful conversation about the future of work, technology and accessibility, and a reminder that when we design for those most often left out, everyone benefits.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• How AI can enhance accessibility when designed inclusively
• Where bias and discrimination creep into automated decision-making
• Why disabled voices must be central to AI development
• Practical examples of everyday tech already supporting access
• The skills we all need to use AI responsibly and effectively

If you care about disability inclusion, ethical innovation and creating a more accessible future, this episode is for you.

To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.uk

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Thank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.

Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.