Best LED Confidential Podcasts (2025)

1
Happiness rankings: insightful or irrelevant for placemaking? 12:31

5d ago12:31

12:31

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore whether happiness rankings and well-being metrics have any real value in local economic development and placemaking. They ask: are these measures meaningful tools for policy—or just headline fodder? And if happiness does matter, how should it be measured and used by LED professionals?…

1
Baby Sleep Habits That Seem Weird But Are Actually Normal 13:10

6d ago13:10

13:10

Newborn grunting and groaning? Baby smushing themselves up into a corner of the crib? Those are just two of the many sleep habits parents ask me about all the time. They seem weird, but they're super normal (and signs of a happy, healthy sleeper). Much of my job is telling parents that something is normal. So today, I'm going to share a few of the …

1
Feeding the future: rethinking local economies through the foundational lens 46:56

12d ago46:56

46:56

In this episode, David and Mike are joined by Professor Kevin Morgan to explore the foundational economy—what it is, why it matters, and how it’s reshaping local economic development. They ask: how can food systems, especially public sector food provisioning, become a catalyst for community wealth and well-being? And what can the Welsh experience t…

1
How To Talk About Grandparent Loss With Kids 14:56

13d ago14:56

14:56

I usually love being an expert, but not so much in this case. I have sadly now been a parent whose dealt with explaining the loss of a grandparent before kids were born (my Dad) and explaining the loss of a grandparent now, when they're all old enough to know and love (my Father In Law, who passed away a few days ago). In today's episode, I'll shar…

1
Water and place: threat, opportunity or both? 9:50

19d ago9:50

9:50

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore the economic implications of flooding and water scarcity. They ask: are water-related risks a barrier to growth or a strategic opportunity for innovation and regeneration? From smart water management and wetland restoration to the blue green economy and new demands from the infrastructure poweri…

1
Turns Out It's The Little Things: Interviewing my college bestie, The Birdfluencer, Melissa Kirkland 1:01:24

20d ago1:01:24

1:01:24

Well this episode is a doozy if there ever was one. This week, I'm introducing you to my college bestie, fellow Pisces princess, the one and only Birdfluencer, Melissa Kirkland. Melissa and I reminisce about how we met as baby-faced freshman, our post-college escapades in New York, how she overcame years of chronic pain and depression in her mid-30…

1
Spending Review 2025: A turning point for local economic development? 26:22

26d ago26:22

26:22

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike unpack the 2025 Spending Review and ask: is this the moment local economic development and placemaking finally get the long-term backing they need? And will Integrated Settlements, Green Book reforms and 10-year capital deals really change the game for Mayoral Combined Authorities and their partners? Th…

1
Why Is My Baby Waking Up So Damn Early?! 10:32

27d ago10:32

10:32

Baby, toddler, preschooler - they love an early wake! But Brittany WHY?!?! And the answer is less complicated than you think. You guys know my motto, it's the reason you all came to me - it's A DO LESS for me, dog! In this week's episode I'll explain WHY your nugget is up early even if they sleep well the rest of the night (and maybe even crush nap…

1
Joining the dots: universities, policy, and place-based impact with Sarah Chaytor 33:22

1M ago33:22

33:22

In this episode, David and Mike speak with Sarah Chaytor about the University Policy Engagement Network (UPEN) in the UK and the evolving role of universities in shaping public policy. They ask: how can academic expertise be better integrated into local and national policymaking? And what does it take for universities to move from transactional rel…

1
Client Confidential with Perinatal Therapist Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-C 35:48

1M ago35:48

35:48

"Everyone lied to me, I'm not cut out for this" is how my client, perinatal and postpartum therapist Lauren Ratliff, described her surprising transition into motherhood. That experience spurred the Mom of 3 to open a mental health practice dedicated specifically to helping women through all stages of motherhood and postpartum. Today I sit down with…

1
What does the rise of the Reform Party mean for economic development and placemaking in the UK? 12:43

1M ago12:43

12:43

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike examine theimplications of the Reform Party’s rise to local power in England following the May 2025 local government elections. With new Reform Mayors and councils now in place, they explore what this means for local economic development, public service delivery, and the future of place leadership. They…

1
A Bath Won't Help Your Baby Sleep (Here Is What Will) 5:58

1M ago5:58

5:58

Everyone is obsessssssed with giving babies a bath every night and I don't know why. They do not need it, some don't like it, it often dries out their skin and, wait for it, it does NOT help them sleep! Today's episode is short and sweet and important for any parent stressed out bathing their newborn - permission to not do it tonight my friend! Lov…

1
What do the May 2025 local election results mean for English devolution? 10:59

2M ago10:59

10:59

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike unpack the economic development and placemaking implications of the May 2025 local government elections in England. These saw the Reform Party gain two Combined Authority Mayors and control of several councils. They explore what this shift means for local growth, devolution, and regional collaboration. …

1
Permission To Not Do It All with Faye Co-Founder Emily King 37:55

2M ago37:55

37:55

Today's episode is brought to you by my almost-mental breakdown a few weeks ago. The mental load was giving me a menty B and something had to give. I was served an ad for a service called Faye and immediately scheduled a call with the founder. A few weeks later, I feel lighter! I have a teammate to help me tackle my busy life! Today I'm sitting dow…

1
Power cuts and cyber attacks - economic development in the age of perma-crisis 10:52

2M ago10:52

10:52

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore how local leadership teams can build resilience into economic development and place-making strategies in an age of perma- crisis. Reflecting on recent power outages and cyber attacks, extreme weather and infrastructure shocks, they discuss how places can prepare for the unexpected. Drawing on le…

1
Don't Make These 3 Big Potty Training Mistakes 11:44

2M ago11:44

11:44

Potty Training is stressful enough, don't make it harder on yourself! This week, I'm bringing you my 3 biggest thing to avoid doing in order to make potty training as painless as possible for you. Ready to hop on the Potty train ASAP! You're in luck! I have amazing events for you. Today (5/21) I'm hosting a free live Potty Prep Virtual Event with A…

1
Professional Telehealth Therapy in Princeton for Convenient and Confidential Mental Health Support 1:29

2M ago1:29

1:29

Princeton Psychotherapy Center offers expert Telehealth Therapy in Princeton, making high-quality mental health support more accessible than ever. This trusted practice provides virtual counseling sessions led by licensed therapists who specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and more all from the comfort of your ho…

1
Can Innovation Districts and Knowledge Quarters deliver genuinely inclusive growth? 45:33

2M ago45:33

45:33

David and Mike are joined by Emma Frost, Chair of the UK Innovation Districts Group, to explore how innovation districts can drive inclusive growth. They discuss the essential ingredients of successful districts, how to manage the risks of exclusion and gentrification, and why collaborative leadership and long-term thinking can unlock their full po…

1
My Phone Died On Vacation. I Had Some Pretty Big Takeaways. 13:46

2M ago13:46

13:46

Last month of vacation in Mexico, my very old iPhone died. I was suddenly, quite literally, cut off from the outside world and forced to use my brain and eyes in a new way. I had six big takeaways from the experience, some of which won't surprise you, some of which will. One thing I can tell you for sure, I will not be giving my kids smartphones un…

1
What can local leaders do when faced with a major site closure like British Steel? 10:45

2M ago10:45

10:45

What can local leaders do when faced with the closure of a major employment site like British Steel in Scunthorpe that the UK government stepped in to save? When thousands of jobs are at stake is there a rulebook to follow or is politics all?

1
Baby Led Weaning or Purees? The AAP's Go-To Pediatrician & Dietitian Weigh In 37:28

2M ago37:28

37:28

It's gotta be one of the things my 0-6 month old clients panic about the most - SOLIDS. When to introduce them, what to introduce first, what about choking, what about allergies, what method...All. The. Things. Luckily for us, this week we're going to the American Academy of Pediatric's favorite baby feeding experts, Cinthia Scott, RD, IBCLC, and D…

1
Trump, tariffs, and local economic development 10:33

3M ago10:33

10:33

What does an aggressively protectionist US trade policy mean for local economies in the States and further afield? Can it re-industrialise Appalachia, or is it doomed to fail?

1
Transforming place-based growth with Mayoral Combined Authorities: insights from NECA CEO Henry Kippin 44:57

3M ago44:57

44:57

In this episode, David and Mike explore the transformative potential of Mayoral Combined Authorities in England for economic development and public services. They are joined by Henry Kippin, Chief Executive of the North East Combined Authority and one of the few professionals in the sector to have occupied senior positions in three MCAs . Through t…

1
My Love Letter To The Mom Who Is Pregnant With Baby Number Two 13:57

3M ago13:57

13:57

Being pregnant with your second child is a uniquely difficult and beautiful place to be. Your firstborn seems so big suddenly, the moments alone with them so fleeting. The pregnancy both feels harder (you have to waddle chase a toddler) and easier (time flies when you are busy waddle chasing said toddler). You both can't wait to love this new perso…

1
St Helena Airport: South Atlantic lessons for the UK's local economies 11:31

3M ago11:31

11:31

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike unpack the implications of the recent NAO report on St Helena's Airport for local economic development and devolution in the UK. They explore the lessons that can be dawn from the airport's business case and its proposed contribution to the island's financial self-sufficiency. Join them as they ask: how…

1
The Real Reason Your "Gentle" Scripts & Methods Aren't Working 20:28

3M ago20:28

20:28

Someone had to say it! So I guess it will be me. I'll cut right to the chase - it's not working because those things don't actually help a child who is struggling. They help YOU feel like you're doing something, and doing something that has been packaged as nicer and "gentler" for your child, even though it's not. So we'll unpack it today - What th…

1
Does the UK's Plan for Neighbourhoods mark a change in policy direction or repackage the status quo? 8:44

3M ago8:44

8:44

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike unpack the UK Government's newly announced Plan for Neighbourhoods. They explore whether this initiative represents a genuine step change for local economic development or if it's merely a repackaging of the previous government's approach. They ask: how can we learn from past experience to maximise the …

1
You Baby Isn't Teething 16:06

3M ago16:06

16:06

I mean I can't say for sure but kind of? I'm like 97% sure. Stay with me here. In today's episode I'll explain why I'm so sure, what the data tells us about our ability, as caregivers, to accurately predict teething, when teeth are most likely to emerge, how to *actually* tell if your baby is teething, and what to definitely not do if they are. Tee…

1
Here's The Tea: The Best & Worst Parts Of My Job 25:45

4M ago25:45

25:45

You want the tea? I'm pouring it today! The highlights of my job FAR outshine the lowlights, which I am endlessly grateful for. Thank you all for being the reason I love my job - this episode is about you! I seem to attract almost exclusively wonderful families (and I'm giving you the tea on the rare pain points, and how I manage when things get to…

1
How to be an effective place champion: lessons in tech-led economic development from Cambridge Ahead 43:02

4M ago43:02

43:02

David and Mike explore Cambridge's tech-led economic development, its role as a global tech hub, and the challenges and opportunities of being a focus of national growth plans. Joined by Dan Thorp, CEO of Cambridge Ahead, they discuss lessons for other city regions and how non-governmental place champions like CA can effectively promote their succe…

1
How will a surge in defence spending affect local economic development in the UK? 12:17

4M ago12:17

12:17

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore the implications of the UK Government's announcement that defence spending will increase to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a longer-term goal of 3%. Which regions will benefit most? And how should local economic development leaders and professionals respond to the resulting opportunities and challeng…

1
Parenting Advice So Good I Wrote It On A Napkin At A Restaurant 20:13

4M ago20:13

20:13

One thing about me - I love asking "how'd you do that?" to successful people. Especially successful parents. If you have a kind, interesting, emotionally intelligent child, teen or adult, I want to know what you did to help them get there. My latest target was my wonderful Aunt who joined me for dinner a few nights ago. In today's episode, I'll sha…

1
Safe Sleep for Toddlers & Preschoolers 22:33

4M ago22:33

22:33

Safe sleep ain't just for babies! Our bigger, stronger, faster, chattier toddlers and preschoolers need a safe sleep environment too! In today's episode I'll break down toddler safe sleep into 3 categories - safe sleep in a crib, safe sleep in a bed, and safe sleep for ALL little people, regardless of where they're sleeping. In today's episode, I m…

1
Putting the ‘local’ in local government 46:24

4M ago46:24

46:24

David and Mike speak are joined by Ian Fytche, long-serving former CEO of North Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire. They ask: will the current approach to local government reform take the ‘local’ out of local authorities in England? And how is placemaking impacted by scale and does it demand different types of leadership?…

1
Things You Don't Need To Buy (And Why) To Help Your Baby or Toddler Sleep 20:10

4M ago20:10

20:10

Oh God you guys, where do I begin?! This episode is inspired by a request I got from a news outlet yesterday. They wanted a quote from me on a new trend where parents offer kids butter in order to help them sleep at night. Oye. No? No, no that's not the answer. So today, I'm sharing my top 10 things you do NOT need to buy to help with sleep, and wh…

1
Should your Local Growth Plan include an AI Growth Zone? 11:13

5M ago11:13

11:13

What is an AI Growth Zone in the UK? Should your area be making plans for one? And what does this latest flavour of economic zone say about the future of zonal policies and designations in Britain? Join David and Mike as they unpack the issues.

1
Scared Of Sleep Regressions? Don’t Be 15:07

5M ago15:07

15:07

Permission to ignore anyone telling you to "just wait" until your great sleeper is destroyed by a dreaded sleep regression. Why? I'm so glad you asked. Today I'll explain what sleep regressions actually are, the most common times in a baby and pre-toddlers life they may occur, why they seem to impact some babies so much more than others, and what y…

1
How can local government balance economic growth and environmental goals? 8:44

5M ago8:44

8:44

With its recent announcements of support for environmentally contentious projects like building a third runway at Heathrow Airport, has the UK Government struck the right balance between its economic growth and environmental priorities? And how can we manage any economic and environmental tensions and trade offs locally? In this short Espresso Shot…

1
How To Make Your Baby Sleep On A Plane 19:52

5M ago19:52

19:52

Spoiler: you can't! BUT - there are many things you can do to make it as likely as possible. From what their sleep looks like before the trip, when you schedule your flight, when they eat, and what they're sitting in, I've giving you ALL my best tips and tricks to make daytime flights with napping babies as painless as can possibly (and hopefully -…

1
Decoding Rachel Reeves growth plan for local economic development in the UK 9:52

5M ago9:52

9:52

In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike delve into the implications of Rachel Reeves' January 2025 growth plan for local economic development and regional disparities across the UK. They explore whether the measures announced will shift priorities for sub-national growth strategies and discuss the potential impacts on local decision-makers an…

1
Sleep Sacks 101 25:43

5M ago25:43

25:43

Today we're taking it back to the basics - SLEEP SACKS! So...what exactly is a sleep sack? Why should a baby or toddler use one? When should you start using one, and stop using one? How do you pick the right one? And what the F is a "tog'? All of that and more in today's episode. I mentioned two other Snooze Button episodes you may want to check ou…

1
How to empower local communities through inclusive innovation and participatory democracy? 43:41

5M ago43:41

43:41

How can local communities actively participate in and share the benefits of major government reforms and changes? Join David and Mike as they explore the pathways to inclusive innovation and participatory democracy with Kersten England, a champion of community empowerment. In this episode, they dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of ens…

1
Pick Your Poison Babe 11:08

5M ago11:08

11:08

Good things come to those who work for it - and sleep is no exception. Today I'm sharing with you the conversations I so often have with clients when things feel HARD. Because, spoiler, just like anything else completely life changing, giving your child the gift of sleep can feel really hard! Resisting the urge to constantly intervene or tweak thin…

1
What's going wrong with the UK's economic and labour market statistics? 9:53

6M ago9:53

9:53

In this Espresso Shot episode David and Mike reflect on the growing chorus of high-profile criticism of the quality of UK official statistics and what this might mean for local economic development. They ask - what are the issues, and what are the consequences of this data crisis? How should sector professionals and local leadership teams respond?…

1
A Deep Dive Into Safe Baby Sleep & Preventing SUIDs 35:13

6M ago35:13

35:13

This week's episode deals with the topic of preventing SUIDs/SIDS/infant loss. Please listen with care. This week, The New York Times published an article about the sudden and unexpected rise in SUIDs (Sudden Unexplained Infant Death) in the US, hypothesizing about the potential causes of this very unfortunate trend. So there was no better time tha…

1
What next for fiscal devolution in the UK? 9:42

6M ago9:42

9:42

In this Espresso Shot episode David and Mike consider the absence of hard commitments to fiscal devolution in the UK Government's Devolution White Paper. Was the government right to exclude this? How long can local revenue raising remain off the table for England, with new tourist levies in the Pipeline for Scotland and Wales? What options are avai…

1
Parenting Lessons I Learned The Hard Way 19:31

6M ago19:31

19:31

Every veteran Mom has a list - things they did, paid for, obsessed over, worried about....that they chose NOT to do with their future children. So today, I'm sharing a a few of mine with you! The things I learned "the hard way" with my oldest son, and chose not to repeat with his younger siblings - so you can learn these lessons the easy way. Loved…

1
Is bigger always better for local government reorganisations? 10:33

6M ago10:33

10:33

In this Espresso Shot episode David and Mike discuss the parameters of the upcoming local government reorganisation set out by the UK Government in its Devolution White Paper. They ask: does a target size for English Unitary Authorities of 500k+ make any sense in economic development or placemaking terms? And how can local economic development and …

1
Parenting Through Trauma 28:27

6M ago28:27

28:27

This week's episode is coming to you from the heart of Los Angeles, where thousands of our neighbors lost their homes, possessions, and livelihoods. So, I'm sharing my best advice for parenting in a time of crisis, drawing from the hundreds (thousands?) of conversations I've had with clients over the years, doing their best when their best was some…

1
The 3 to 2 Nap Transition 23:53

6M ago23:53

23:53

Is your baby on 3 naps? Wondering what to do next? This week I'm breaking down the 3 to 2 nap transition: when to do it, why to do it then, what changes in your baby's day with this transition, and some helpful little nuances that will make the transition as early and painless as possible - so you're set up for success for many months to come! In t…

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