Carl Cashman may be described as the UK’s hottest politician, but that should be representative of his keen ambition and remarkable commitment to the betterment of the community of Liverpool, not just his appearance.

In an age where we often find political leaders who are out of touch and without empathy, In Carl, I met a leader who knows that empathy and emotional intelligence help him.

He is quick to share the stories of people in his community who have inspired him, who provide mentorship and inspiration. This isn’t a solo rise to success, but a collective effort and one that Carl celebrates openly.

At just 34, Carl is the leader for the Liberal Democrats in Liverpool. If you’ve seen him on TV, heard him on the radio, or met with him in person, you’ll likely agree that he does not fit the stereotype of the typical politician.

Personable, authentic and passionate; Carl is first and foremost a member of the Liverpool community. He leads with heart as much as strategy and not once did he offer a ‘politician’s’ answer to any of my questions.

An inspiring, humbling and empowering podcast guest - take a listen to Carl as he shares his thoughts on how we can think, inspire and communicate with each other for a better quality of life in our communities.

Music: 'Spirit of Fire' - fiftysounds.com

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Unmuted was recently commissioned to produce eight short-form audio packages to be broadcast on Pride FM.

'Learning How To Dive' is the brainchild of award-winning writer, Brendan Murray.

The play is about three people, one uncertain future, love, lies, loss and what comes next.

It is much more than a work of fiction. The story is based on Brendan's thirty-year relationship with a married man.

Here are all eight short form interviews in one, easy-to-listen feature.

TUNE TO PRIDE FM FOR MORE STORIES FROM BRENDAN MURRAY…YOU CAN SEE HIS PLAY, ‘LEARNING HOW TO DIVE’ AT THE WHITE BEAR THEATRE ON KENNIGTON ROAD IN LONDON FROM THE 10TH TO THE 21ST OF FEBRUARY 2026. THERE ARE EVENING AN MATINEE PERFORMANCES…GO TO WWW.DAMNCHEEK.CO.UK FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MUSIC: 'I Get Along Without You Very Well (Except Sometimes)' Chet Baker (Composer: H Carmichael)

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“I don’t know a harder job when you’re not feeling the way you are; my best friend and brother died within 7 days of each other and I went on air and talked about it because that's where the two worlds marry up.”

The task of a radio presenter is to set the tone and mood for your day - despite what they may be feeling on the inside.

They may be the first voices that you hear in the morning. They tell you the good news and the bad. They pep you up, they calm you down. You feel like you know them…but do you really know the story behind that trusted voice?

Radio and radio presenters have long held the highest form of trust as a media source.

What is about radio that makes it feel so trusting? And why does deep emotional intelligence play such an important role in how you connect with the station of your choice?

At its heart, radio is typically consumed as a 1-2-1 media - you listen in your car, as you cook, as you work. Radio presenters are trained to deliver their content to you, the single person, not the mass audience it actually reaches, which is why it feels so personal.

In this podcast, I speak to 3 of my radio protegees who have gone on to major success in their field. Garry Spence broadcasts daily on Clyde 1 across Scotland, Paul Harper is heard daily on Jack FM in Canada, and Pete Snodden can be found on Cool FM across Northern Ireland.

We share a peek behind the curtain of life on radio and discuss how they show up everyday - even when they are navigating terrible personal trauma.

There are great stories here about their experiences, their careers, and how they manage when life gets tough. Take a listen and share your thoughts with us!

#radiopresenters #lifeinradio #emotionalintelligence #presentingskills #inspiringpodcast

Music: 'Spirit of Fire' - fiftysounds.com

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