Best Deepa Iyer Podcasts (2025)

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From Roles to Ripples: Deepa Iyer on Ecosystems, Solidarity & Building Movements 54:58

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10d ago54:58

54:58

In this soulful and practical conversation, Nikki sits down with Deepa Iyer — author of Social Change Now, host of the Solidarity Is This podcast, and Senior Director at the Building Movement Project — to explore how real change happens when we see our work as an ecosystem of interdependent roles. We unpack the 10 roles from Deepa’s framework (Visi…

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Biophilic Education: Creating sustainable, ethical and inclusive schools with Rosina Dorelli 1:14:48

3d ago1:14:48

1:14:48

In this final episode of Season 3, Nikki Giant is joined by Rosina Dorelli, founder of Da Vinci Life Skills CIC and BE Hubs Cambridge, a Biophilic Education (BE) home education learning hub, which offers the Da Vinci curriculum. Rosina shares her inspiring journey from artist to educational innovator, leading a movement toward biophilic education –…

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Solidarity Within and Across Communities 32:39

5d ago32:39

32:39

In this episode, Jamie Beran from Bend The Arc shares messaging and practices that build solidarity within and outside Jewish communities.By Deepa Iyer

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Mentoring from the Inside Out: Ricardo Erasmus on Ubuntu & Unlocking Potential 59:13

17d ago59:13

59:13

In this uplifting episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki sits down with Ricardo Erasmus — transformational life coach, motivational speaker, youth mentor, TEDx speaker, and founder of Paradigm Shift Academy. Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, and now based in Wales, Ricardo shares his remarkable journey from the Cape Flats — a commu…

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The Power of Relationships: Neil Denton on Connection, Conflict & Change 50:18

24d ago50:18

50:18

In this heart-opening episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki sits down with Neil Denton - mediator, professor, and co-lead of The Relationships Project - to explore why relationships are not “soft extras,” but the very foundation of healthier, happier, more resilient communities. Neil shares the vision behind The Relationships Project: em…

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From Dream Machine to Doing the Work: Sash Jayasinghe’s Journey with 4Lanka 45:56

1M ago45:56

45:56

In this inspiring conversation, 21-year-old changemaker Sash Jayasinghe shares how a wake-up moment in Sri Lanka sparked a year of intentional action: founding 4Lanka, a social-impact venture to help South Asian young people discover purpose, build confidence, and turn ideas into reality. Sash recalls bringing Simon Squibb’s Dream Machine to the fi…

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Changing the System from the Inside: Ceri Reed on Parent Voices, Neurodiversity & Building a Culture of Co Production 56:07

1M ago56:07

56:07

In this inspiring conversation, Nikki speaks with Ceri Reed, founder of Parents Voices in Wales, a not‑for‑profit organisation championing the voices of parents, carers and young people with lived experience of neurodiversity and/or poor mental health. Ceri shares her deeply personal journey into advocacy, the importance of early intervention, and …

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Play with Purpose: Reimagining Childhood through Creativity, Community & Care with Joanne Baldock 59:21

1M ago59:21

59:21

In the latest episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki speaks with Joanne Baldock, founder of Heol Chwarae Rôl – Role Play Lane, a vibrant community hub in South Wales using imaginative play to support children, families, and young people with additional needs. From her roots in teaching to creating an inclusive, joyful space where learning…

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Solidarity As Public Memory 24:08

2M ago24:08

24:08

How are Native and Japanese American communities marking a shameful part of American history? Our guest, Satsuki Ina, shows us how to build solidarity from a national tragedy.By Deepa Iyer

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Leading with Heart: How One School in New Zealand is Transforming Education Through Presence, Equity and Joy 1:07:01

2M ago1:07:01

1:07:01

In this powerful episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki sits down with Shannon McDougall, the principal of Tokoiti School in South Otago, New Zealand — a small rural school with a mighty vision. Shannon shares how he's turned his lifelong passion for equity, wellbeing and creativity into a living, breathing culture of authenticity and con…

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Rewilding Childhood: Raising a New Kind of Hero with Gary Lougher 1:20:12

2M ago1:20:12

1:20:12

In this deeply reflective episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki Giant is joined by Gary Lougher, founder of 2nd Ascent Coaching and the creator of Heroic Kids - a storytelling-based mentorship program helping children and their families reconnect with emotional intelligence, resilience, and their true nature. From his own corporate burno…

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A Conversation About Solidarity Stances 42:58

2M ago42:58

42:58

In this special live episode, co-hosts Adaku Utah and Deepa Iyer explore how movements can use Solidarity Stances to build deeper, more aligned forms of solidarity — even under authoritarian conditions.By Deepa Iyer

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From Burnout to Breakthrough: Claire Watson on Sisterhood, Healing & the Power of Zen Clubs for Kids 55:01

2M ago55:01

55:01

In this heartfelt and deeply inspiring episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki sits down with her sister, Claire Watson - educator, spiritual guide, and founder of Zen Clubs. Claire shares her powerful journey from burnout and breast cancer to personal transformation and soul purpose. With warmth, wisdom and humour, she talks about the cha…

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Invisible Walls: Keeping Families Connected — Schools, Prisons, and the ‘Golden Thread’ of Belonging 49:21

2M ago49:21

49:21

In this moving and eye-opening episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki Giant sits down with Ryan Wood and Julie Jones from Invisible Walls, a not-for-profit organisation in Wales working with children and families when a parent is in prison. Ryan and Julie share how Invisible Walls was born from a desire to keep families connected, and why…

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One Rhyme at a Time: Duke Al on OCD, Creativity, and the Courage to Heal 1:08:13

3M ago1:08:13

1:08:13

In this deeply moving episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki Giant is joined by spoken word poet, author, hip-hop artist, and creative practitioner Duke Al. Known for his raw, honest storytelling and lyrical brilliance, Duke opens up about how poetry became his lifeline while navigating OCD, intrusive thoughts, and later, a diagnosis of t…

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Solidarity Across Division 35:45

3M ago35:45

35:45

Co-host Adaku Utah talks with Rima Meroueh of the National Network for Arab American Communities about resisting surveillance, healing divisions, and building power through solidarity and connection across differences.By Deepa Iyer

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Season Three Trailer: Spark Changemakers 2:26

3M ago2:26

2:26

Calling all changemakers! We’re back with season 3 of the Spark Changemakers Podcast, the show for people who want to change the world, leading with passion and purpose. Hosted by Nikki Giant, founder of The Spark Movement, our third season brings a whole host of changemakers from across the globe to inspire you to find your Spark. If you feel a ca…

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Solidarity: Racial Justice during Black August and Beyond 38:08

3M ago38:08

38:08

BMP’s Exec. Director, Janis Rosheuvel, talks with Charles Long, the Deputy Director of Fund Strategy at the Movement for Black Lives, on the importance of trusting Black leadership, the role of philanthropy, and the necessity of community and restBy Deepa Iyer

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Solidarity Through Sacred Work: Organizing from Hope and Healing in Divided Times 46:17

4M ago46:17

46:17

Adaku Utah talks with Alia Bilal about how the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) has spent the last 30 years building a vibrant ecosystem weaving together healthcare, housing, arts, and organizing to nurture transformation in Chicago’s inner city.By Deepa Iyer

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Six Scripts for Talking to Our Children about Immigration Rights (in Ways that They Get & You Don’t Sweat) 8:45

5M ago8:45

8:45

In this episode, you’ll hear six scripts that you can use or adapt when your little one is asking who immigrants are and why people are protesting. --------------------------- Get full show notes and more information at: comebacktocare.com/podcast For more BTS of this podcast, follow @comebacktocare on Instagram! Sign up for our weekly Care Collect…

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Solidarity as Strategy: Building Power Across Movements 1:00:14

6M ago1:00:14

1:00:14

Co-host Adaku Utah speaks with Nikko Viquiera of Race Forward on solidarity’s role in ending oppression and building just communities—sharing insights on strategy, relationships, and sustaining a justice ecosystem rooted in love and equity.By Deepa Iyer

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Solidarity: Movement Lessons from the First 100 Days 1:15:10

6M ago1:15:10

1:15:10

In this episode, we share a conversation from our State of Solidarity series exploring how movements are responding to political upheaval, and highlight strategies from our new report, Movement Lessons from the First 100 Days.By Deepa Iyer

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Building Bridges: A Journey of Forgiveness and Peace with Jo Berry 48:34

8M ago48:34

48:34

In this powerful episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant sits down with the inspiring Jo Berry, founder of Building Bridges for Peace. Jo’s life was forever changed when her father, Sir Anthony Berry, was killed in the IRA bombing of the Grand Hotel in Brighton in 1984. Rather than succumbing to hatred, she made the remarkable d…

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Solidarity at the Pace of Interdependence and Care: Lessons from New Disabled South 42:14

8M ago42:14

42:14

Co-host Adaku Utah talks with Dom Kelly of New Disabled South about building movements rooted in care, access, and interdependence. Amid rising attacks, Dom highlights how disability justice organizers resist harm and foster transformative solidarity.By Deepa Iyer

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From Street to Boardroom: Clayton Planter on Redefining Success 58:43

8M ago58:43

58:43

In this episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant sits down with Clayton Planter, founder of Street2Boardroom, an innovative organisation transforming street hustle into legitimate business skills. Clayton shares his journey growing up in a disadvantaged community, recognising the untapped entrepreneurial talent in street culture,…

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Baldilocks & the Journey to Self-Love: A Conversation with Dan Newman 1:08:01

8M ago1:08:01

1:08:01

In this powerful episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant speaks with Dan Newman, founder of Baldilocks, an inspiring movement helping people reclaim their confidence and sense of self after experiencing hair loss. Dan shares his deeply personal journey — from navigating alopecia after trauma to creating a supportive community th…

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Solidarity: Nonprofit Sustainability Now and Beyond 44:20

8M ago44:20

44:20

In this episode, co-hosts Adaku and Deepa explore the devastating impact of recent executive orders on nonprofits and how organizations are resisting defunding, criminalization, and state repression.By Deepa Iyer

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Crafting Hope: Molly Leonard’s Journey from Struggle to Strength 59:51

8M ago59:51

59:51

Content warning: Molly shares her experiences with mental health challenges, specifically an eating disorder, in this episode. In this inspiring episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant sits down with Molly Leonard, the founder of Craft With Me. At just 26 years old, Molly has transformed her passion for crafting into a powerful …

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Turning Tragedy into Purpose: Stefan Wissenbach’s Mission to Build 100 Schools 55:54

8M ago55:54

55:54

In this deeply moving episode of Spark Changemakers, host Nikki Giant sits down with Stefan Wissenbach — bestselling author, keynote speaker, and founder of the Magic Future Foundation. Stefan shares his powerful journey of turning personal tragedy into a global mission to build 100 schools in the world’s poorest communities. After the sudden loss …

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Turning Complexity into Action: Solving the Climate Crisis with Tom Bowman 1:10:59

9M ago1:10:59

1:10:59

In this episode of the Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki Giant is joined by Tom Bowman, an advisor, speaker, and author of What If Solving the Climate Crisis Is Simple? Tom shares his journey from designing museum exhibits to becoming a leading voice in climate action, revealing how a pivotal moment in his career ignited a passion for change. Disco…

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Calling In, Not Calling Out: Transforming Masculinity and Preventing Violence with Brian Gardner 1:11:25

9M ago1:11:25

1:11:25

Trigger warning: This episode focuses on domestic and gender-based violence In this inspiring episode of the Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant sits down with Brian Gardner, Lead Advisor at the Ministry of Social Development in New Zealand, to discuss his ground breaking work in family violence prevention and promoting healthy masculinity…

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[BONUS] 10 Roles to Play with Our Children in Collective Care with Deepa Iyer 49:11

9M ago49:11

49:11

In this bonus episode, Deepa Iyer shares her wisdom on staying engaged in social change when you’re a caregiver. You’ll explore the roles you can play in liberation and make your advocacy “sustainable and effective.” --------------------------- Get full show notes and more information at: comebacktocare.com/podcast For more BTS of this podcast, fol…

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Solidarity in Crisis: Building Power in Uncertain Times 44:55

9M ago44:55

44:55

Building Movement Project's Executive Director Janis Rosheuvel and Adaku discuss the urgent challenges organizations and communities face in response to political instability, and how to balance immediate action with building long-term power.By Deepa Iyer

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Mindful Sparks: Supporting Teacher Wellbeing and Classroom Culture with Stephanie Lill 57:03

9M ago57:03

57:03

In this episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant sits down with Stephanie Lill (known as Lilly), founder of Mindful Sparks, to explore how mindfulness can transform the lives of educators and students alike. Lilly shares her journey from self-discovery to founding Mindful Sparks, a platform that equips teachers with mindfulness p…

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Building a Culture of Care: Syd Dennis on Resilience, Kindness and Change 56:41

9M ago56:41

56:41

In this inspiring episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, host Nikki Giant is joined by Syd Dennis, a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a lifelong advocate for community wellbeing. Syd shares her extraordinary journey—from growing up in the Far East as part of a military family to navigating public service in Wales, where she’s been tr…

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Season Two Trailer: Spark Changemakers 2:33

10M ago2:33

2:33

Welcome to the Spark Changemakers Podcast - we're back for season two with more incredible changemakers who are putting their Spark into action. Hosted by Nikki Giant, this podcast is dedicated to helping people discover their inner spark – the passion, joy, and purpose that drives them to make a difference in the world. Whether you’re already a ch…

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Solidarity: Stories of Rebuilding and Reimagination 32:09

10M ago32:09

32:09

As Trump's administration unleashes a wave of restrictive executive orders, hosts Adaku Utah and Deepa Iyer spotlight innovative solidarity practices emerging across movements, from rapid response networks to bold models of community defenense and care.By Deepa Iyer

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Solidarity: Countering Attacks on Each Other 1:05:08

11M ago1:05:08

1:05:08

How do we build and protect cross-racial solidarity for the long term? In this episode, co-host Adaku Utah explores this question with Alvina Wong (APEN); Anna Castro (Transgender Law Center); and Janis Rosheuvel (Building Movement Project).By Deepa Iyer