Inside Bristol Live

In this week's episode of the Bristol Live podcast, we speak to reporter and mum Emma Grimshaw about her experience of breastfeeding.  Emma speaks to our reporter Alex Wood who has taken over interviewing duties to hear about life as a mum in Bristol. Then regular host Alex Ballinger returns to hear from education reporter Michael Yong who has been covering a landmark court case. Michael has been reporting on a campaign against funding cuts that threaten to have a huge impact on the lives of children with special needs in Bristol and across the country.  The story has made national headlines and Michael talks about his experience covering such an important story. And finally on this week's episode of Inside Bristol Live we hear from a tag team of reporters, Tristan Court and political editor Esme Ashcroft.   Both Esme and Tristan have been following the development of the highly anticipated but often controversial Metrobus transport scheme.   The long-running Metrobus saga will be familiar to many but Tristan and Esme take us behind the scenes to look a little deeper. Links to this episode's stories: Opinion: Why I want to breastfeed my son until he's at least two Exclusive: Metrobus 'never meant to be' for fans visiting Ashton Gate - because there aren't enough special buses Bristol City Council had no regard for children’s welfare when making £5m SEND funding cuts If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Esme Ashcroft: @EsmeAshcroft Alex Wood: @MrAlexWood Michael Yong: @Michael_Yong Tristan Cork: @TristanCorkPost For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week's episode of the Bristol Live podcast focuses on how our reporters work when big news breaks.  Breaking news is always a huge part of the newsroom environment, so reporter Krishan Davis joins us in the studio to explore how we cover major incidents. From road traffic collisions to serious crime or major fires, there is always something happening in Bristol and our reporters always have their ear to the ground.   Also on this week's episode of Inside Bristol Live, reporter Alex Wood returns to discuss the fate of the Channel 4 HQ. Bristol was in the running to become the new home of the broadcaster, bringing all the perks along with it.  Sadly, the city missed out on its chance of a new Channel 4 headquarters - but all is not lost.  Alex talks about what the decision means for Bristol, but also how important campaigning journalism is in local news.  And finally on this week's show, political editor Esme Ashcroft talks us through some of the controversial plans to cut down in Bristol's traffic congestion nightmare. Anyone travelling by car in Bristol will know that reducing the traffic on our roads is essential, but Bristol City Council's proposals are likely to run up against some stiff opposition.   Links to this episode's stories: Bristol shortlisted for Channel 4 creative hub after losing out on HQ decision You might soon be charged to park at work in Bristol Everything we know after dramatic police chase ends in crash at St George If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Esme Ashcroft: @EsmeAshcroft Alex Wood: @MrAlexWood Krishan Davis: @Krishan_Davis For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

On this week's show Bronwen stands in for Alex and talks to Tristan Cork about Edward Colston. Edward Colston played a huge role in the transatlantic slave trade and so Tristan takes us through a brief history of the merchant and why he is at the centre of a modern day controversy focusing a new plaque which will be placed on his statue. Next, Bron talks to Michael Yong about a sexual assault case involving a head teacher and a student. In a harrowing conversation Michael speaks about how he reports and handles these delicate subjects as well as the importance reporting on such cases is to survivors. Last but not least, Robin Murray is back on the show talking about Thekla's 60th birthday. Thekla is a ship that has seen many different lives, first as a cargo ship then as a theatre, and now as we all know - a music venue loved by the nation. Robin talks us through the history of Thekla, the birthday celebrations, and recent issues with developers and noise complaints that challenge Thekla's future. Links to this episode's stories: - Edward Colston and his brand new plaque - The fall of head teacher and church goer Alistair Perry - Thekla - 60 years of sea and music Follow the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Host - Bronwen Weatherby: @bronweatherby Michael Yong: @Michael_Yong Tristan Cork: @TristanCorkPost Robin Murray: @Rob_Murray92 For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

On this week's episode of the Bristol Live podcast, we talk to reporter Bronwen Weatherby about the divided response she received to a piece that puts her experience at the forefront. Bron steps into the Inside Bristol Live studio to talk about her article and why she is afraid to cycle in Bristol.  Her article triggered a very unexpected response, with many people praising her while others suggested she should not have written about her experience. Bron explores audience reaction, the risk of putting yourself in the firing line when writing, and why someone referred to her as a 'female journalist.'   Also on this week's episode, Bristol Live reporter Joe Smith talks us through a pretty weird weekend on the job. The weekend shifts on a news website are a little different to the rest of the week, so Joe takes us through the a day in the life of a reporter when most people are enjoying some time off. He also talks us through some stories, including a dinosaur disappointment and a penis coffin.   And finally, What's On reporter looks forward to another massive summer event in the city - Bristol Harbour Festival 2018. The city centre will be awash with food, music and maritime events this weekend, so Robin talks us through the event and treats us to more of his musical stylings.   Links to this episode's stories: Opinion: This is why I'm too scared to cycle in Bristol Abuse, catcalls and near misses: what being a female cyclist in Bristol is really like Cycling should be open to all, but fewer women ride bikes due to dangers and sexism Dino-sore: families 'disgusted' after 'dinosaur day' found to be lacking in dinosaurs Former porn star and election candidate Johnny Rockard fundraising to pay for a 6ft penis-shaped coffin for his funeral If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Robin Murray: @Rob_Murray92 Joe Smith: @JowsefSmith Bronwen Weatherby: @BronWeatherby For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week on the show, Alex talks to education reporter Michael Yong about the Bristol Real Schools Guide. Michael explains what it is, how it's put together and how to parents can use the guide most effectively. Michael is passionate about education and does great work to help parents and families across the city with his reporting, so it's great to find out more about his work. Next up, Tristan Cork joins the show to talk about the future of Bedminster. Tristan talks us through the new developments planned in BS3 and what they could mean for the area. Alex and Tristan also explore the gentrification and how the face of Bristol is changing. Tristan is very much a community-driven reporter so his take on this topic is really quite fascinating. Finally on the show, we are talking about another huge event taking place this weekend - it's Bristol Pride! A huge event in the city to celebrate the LGBTQ community in Bristol. It's an amazing event and really shows just how inclusive Bristol is. Content Editor Sophie Prideaux and Reporter Grace Earl join the show to discuss the highlights, what to expect and why Pride is such a great celebration for the city! Links to this episode's stories: Yuppie flats? We're selling to locals say Bedminster developers The top 10 secondary schools in the Bristol area in the Real Schools Guide 2018 Bristol Pride 2018: The line-up, set times and parade route - everything you need to know If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Michael Yong: @Michael_Yong Tristan Cork: @TristanCorkPost Grace Earl: @Gracejtearl Sophie Prideaux: @sophieprideaux For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

On this week's episode of the Bristol Live podcast, we welcome our what's on team into the studio to talk about one of the biggest events of the year - the St Paul's Carnival 2018.   This year marks the return of the huge celebration of Afro-Carribean culture and it's contribution to Bristol leave after a number of years.  Entertainment writers Grace Earl and Robin Murray tell us why the event is so massive, how they have been covering it in the run-up, and we explore some of the controversies that have surrounded the event in previous years.    Also on this week's episode of Inside Bristol Live, reporter Joe Smith delves deeper into the bizarre mystery surrounding 'devil coins' that were found under a church near Bristol.   Joe has been investating this spooky tale that involves a Danish burial ground and some unsettling conspiracy theories.   And finally this week, regular reporter on the show Bronwen Weatherby takes a look at one of her recent stories involvin and England fan who flew all the way to Russia to enjoy the World Cup, only to leave his ticket at home in Bristol.   Bron talks about how this story went national, but also explores the implications of sourcing news on social media and how we verify facts in the online world.   For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

On this week's show, Alex talks to digital editor Luke Beardsworth about ticket touts and secondary ticket sites like Viagogo. Luke and Alex discuss why reselling gig tickets at an inflated prices is allowed and why little is being done to change it. Then we have political editor Esme Ashcroft, who joins the show to discuss the seemingly endless Bristol Arena saga, after another delay of the final decision. Esme gives us an insight into the arena drama, her experiences reporting on the topic and what we should expect in the future. Finally, Alex talks to education reporter Michael Yong about his hugely important coverage of student mental health in Bristol. There have been a number of tragic incidents in which students have taken their own lives and Michael explains how every story impacts him, and the challenges reporters face when writing about this sensitive but essential topic. Links to this episode's stories: Nearly 100 UK university students killed themselves in a year as Bristol counselling sessions soar Mayor reveals when Bristol Arena decision will be made and says 'it's not a Star Wars battle between good and evil' If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Luke Beardsworth: @LukeBeardsworth Esme Ashcroft: @EsmeAshcroft Michael Yong: @Michael_Yong Most people who are thinking of taking their own life have shown warning signs beforehand. These can include becoming depressed, showing sudden changes in behaviour, talking about wanting to die and feelings of hopelessness. These feelings do improve and can be treated. If you are concerned about someone, or need help yourself, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week's episode of the Bristol Live podcast takes you deeper into an investigation of animal cruelty at a South Gloucestershire farm.  Reporter Tristan Cork has been exploring how a farmowner spent years inflicting cruel practices on animals she owned and why the authorities were unable to act.   Tristan has been covering a recent court case focusing on neglect at Ingst Manor Farm, so he discusses his coverage of this shocking story.   Also on this week's episode of Inside Bristol Live, what's on reporter Grace Earl talks about what it's like being a female cyclist on the roads. Grace has taken the brave step of writing about her own experiences and the hostility she has dealt with while riding her bike.  And finally, reporter Alex Wood has put together a mammoth article looking at all the reasons why Channel 4 should choose Bristol as the location for its new headquarters.  Alex has collected views from a huge variety of Bristol people about why we would make the perfect new home for the TV channel's regional base.  If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Grace Earl: @Gracejtearl Alex Wood: @MrAlexWood Tristan Cork - @TristanCorkPost Links to this episode's stories: Abuse, catcalls and near misses: what being a female cyclist in Bristol is really like 'We're all for Bristol': A message to Channel 4 Bristol's farm of hell - claims abuse has continued for ANOTHER two years For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

On this week's show Alex chats to What's On reporter Robin Murray about a bizarre sight he witnessed at a rave in Bristol. Robin tells us how the story quickly went national and how he tracked down the mystery reader raver involved. Then Alex has a chat with senior reporter and mum-of-two, Emma Grimshaw about something close to her heart. Emma recently penned a piece about co-sleeping with her new-born baby, whether it's safe and how she has found the official advice unhelpful. Emma has recently returned to work after maternity leave so she also talks about what it's like balancing parenthood and journalism. Lastly on the show, Joe Smith talks about his work delving into the world of Gumtree housing scams that have cost one victim almost £2,000. Joe explains how these scams work and why people are falling for them. Links to this episode's stories: The fake houses being advertised for rent on Gumtree in Bristol that could end up losing you thousands Meet the man who was reading a book in the middle of a drum & bass rave at Bristol's Motion Opinion: How co-sleeping helped me survive motherhood If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Robin Murray: @Rob_Murray92 Joe Smith: @JowsefSmith Emma Grimshaw: @Elidiard For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week Alex Wood (@MrAlexWood) takes on the hosting duties as Alex Ballinger (@AMBhack) is away on holiday! We still have a fantastic episode for you. Alex talks with Business Editor Hannah Baker, about what it is like to write for businesses, working across print and digital, Hannah is possible the last journalist in the room that writes for both. Next up Bronwen Weatherby is on the show talking about The Grand Iftar, A celebration for all communities to come together and eat food, in a street party setting. It's set to be the UK's biggest street party on record as the Muslim community celebrate the last day of Ramadan. Last up we have Esme Ashcroft (@EsmeAshcroft) on the show talking about the launch of her own podcast 'Never Mind the Ballots' (@BallotsPodcast), a political show based on local issues and focusing on bringing these topics and issues to the forefront of Bristol people's minds. Esme will also be talking about why podcasting has become a big thing in recent times and the importance of Newsrooms being involved with it. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

On this week's episode, Alex talks with digital editor Luke Beardsworth about what his job entails, how he got started in journalism and the age old issue of clickbait. Luke explains the importance of reporters being ingrained in their communities and, taking criticism from readers, and 'trending content'. Also on the show, Tristan Cork explains his latest project, the Bristol World Cup - his mission is to find one person from every country competing, bringing everyone together to celebrate Bristol and living here. It's a great idea and has received a lot of love across social media. Tristan explains where the idea came from, what the challenges have been so far and where he sees the project going in the near future. Lastly, Alex talks to Kate Wilson about her new role (a role that didn't exist a year ago) of being local democracy reporter. Funded by the BBC, Kate explains how it works and why it's important to communities across the region. Links to this episode's stories: Claims Bristolians can give '£150 an hour' to beggars at Temple Meads as city described as a 'soft touch' The Bristol World Cup If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Luke Beardsworth: @LukeBeardsworth Tristan Cork: @TristanCorkPost Kate Wilson: @KWilson_journo For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

In this week's episode, Alex covers some important topics. First up he talks to Sian David, who is Head of Print at the Bristol Post. They discuss how Sian's job has changed over the years and why the newspaper is still so important in the digital world. It's a fascinating conversation about how local news works in 2018 and well worth a listen. Next Alex chats to freelance journalist Neil Maggs, who has been working on an incredible video series about Bristol's sporting world. He has been chatting in-depth to Bristol's brightest and best from the sports world so we talk about that brilliant project. Alex and Neil also talk about diversity in the media and the importance of offering more opportunity to young people in the city. Last up on this week's show, education reporter Michael Yong talks about a challenging but hugely important story he covered recently involving sexual abuse. Michael talks about how a woman has bravely come forward to tell her story, years after she was abused. We also explore anonymity for sexual abuse victims how important it is for others to feel safe about coming forwards if they have experienced something similar. Links to this episode's stories: Woman barricaded herself and set home on fire after sex attacks by Bristol bus driver Bristol's darts star Chris Mason on going to prison, how his life was saved and why he should have been world champion If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Neil Maggs: @NeilMaggs2 Sian David: @Sianldavid Michael Yong: @Michael_Yong Most people who are thinking of taking their own life have shown warning signs beforehand. These can include becoming depressed, showing sudden changes in behaviour, talking about wanting to die and feelings of hopelessness. These feelings do improve and can be treated. If you are concerned about someone, or need help yourself, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123. If you know someone who has been a victim of a child sexual abuse, you can ring the NSPCC at 0808 800 5000 . If you are under 18, ring 0800 1111. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week on the show, we talk to reporter Robin Murray about a feature he is working on based on characters in the city we all know and love. Robin talks us through why he decided to write a feature celebrating these memorable personalities, he tells us what has been like to meet and chat to these characters, and discusses his future ambitions for the series. Next up, host Alex has a in depth chat with a fellow Alex in the office! Reporter Alex Wood talks us through his coverage about the Bearpit and a huge new redevelopment that could well become a reality. The Bearpit is well known in Bristol, it's a subway underneath a roundabout with space in the centre. The idea has also been to use this space to help businesses and bring the community together, however, time and time again it has faced challenges. Reporter Alex talks us through those challenges and the plans to try and successfully bring the space into the present. Last (but certainly not least), we talk to digital content editor Briana Millett on covering protests. Bristol has more than its fair share of protests and Briana explains how we cover these events, what we look out for, how we try to be balanced and the other difficulties when dealing with passionate people fighting for what they believe in. They can be heated and hard to cover but for better or worse, it's something Bristol Live consider an important part of the city and essential to report on. If you'd like to follow us or any of the reporters featured in today's episode, here are the links: Inside Bristol Live: @IBLpodcast Host Alex Ballinger: @ambhack Robin Murray: @Rob_Murray92 Alex Wood: @MrAlexWood Briana Millett: @brianamillett Links to this episode's stories https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink/meet-the-voice-bedminster-bristols-1497980 https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/bristols-bearpit-roundabout-being-renamed-1579639 https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/palestine-protesters-told-bring-banners-1564061 For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week's episode of the Bristol Live podcast explores diversity in Bristol with reporter Tristan Cork and how the 'Year of Change' campaign can help improve inequality in the city. Inside Bristol Live, a weekly podcast brought to you by reporters in your local newsroom, investigates the biggest stories happening in your area with interviews from journalists. On this week's show, host Alex Ballinger speaks to Tristan about his work covering the Bristol-wide Year of Change that hopes to highlight and change inequality in the city. Also this week, reporter Bronwen Weatherby talks about a one-day trip she took to Bristol for a story that may excite many down south. She explains why she took the flight north of the border and exactly what a new Navy aircraft carrier could mean for people here. Finally, the tables are turned this week and our host Alex Ballinger becomes the interviewee to discuss a court case involving a woman who stole more than £50,000 from the NHS surgery where she worked. Politics reporter Esme Ashcroft very kindly volunteered to step in to host a segment and grill Alex on one of his stories.  You can follow the journalists featured in this episode on twitter: Tristan Cork - @TristanCorkPost Esme Ashcroft - @EsmeAshcroft Bronwen Weatherby - @BronWeatherby Stories included in this week's show: How can Bristol be less segregated? 7 things to take away from the first City Conversation Why one of the world's biggest aircraft carriers - HMS Prince of Wales - is linked to Bristol Bristol GP surgery manager who campaigned against NHS cuts stole more than £50,000 from health service New episode every Friday. Follow us on Twitter @IBLpodcast and host Alex Ballinger on @ambhack. Produced by Matt Aldus (@mattaldus) For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

This week's headline story is from education reporter Michael Yong, who has launched a hugely important project to track the number of homeless people who die on the streets of Bristol. Working with a national journalism organisation, Michael tells me why the project is so important and speaks about his own experiences volunteering to help the homeless. We also have a conversation with politics reporter Esme Ashcroft who recently sat down for an exclusive chat with the Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees. Mr Rees has just hit the halfway point of his term in office this week and Esme talks us through his work so far, what comes next, and how she tackles tricky political interviews. And also appearing on the show this week is reporter Joe Smith, who has been digging into a health scandal that is still unfolding. You can follow the journalists featured in this episode on twitter: Michael Yong - @Michael_Yong Esme Ashcroft - @EsmeAshcroft Joe Smith - @JowsefSmith Stories included in this week's show: I will deliver over next two years, promises Marvin Rees at his midterm point South Gloucestershire Council gave £3m contract to collapsing firm Allied Healthcare after ‘robust checks’ We’re going to count the homeless people who die in Bristol – because no one is New episode every Friday. Follow us on Twitter @IBLpodcast and host Alex Ballinger on @ambhack. Produced by Matt Aldus (@mattaldus) For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy