We Built This City

What does it take to power a greener future for Manchester?Amer Gaffar is the Director of the Manchester Fuel Cell Innovation Centre at Manchester Metropolitan University, a research hub developing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, which will support Greater Manchester's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2038.Lisa and Amer discuss exactly what a ‘fuel cell' is and how hydrogen can power Manchester's next revolution; a green revolution. You'll hear Lisa uncover Amer's vision for a cleaner, fairer city and how leading Manchester institutions are fueling that transition faster than any other city. Amer talks about why he believes collaboration is key to tackling the climate crisis and how Manchester Met along with Manchester's combined authority are helping to get the city region to the goal of Net Zero together.Amer reflects on the need to make sustainability accessible to all and this conversation is a great reminder of how local action can drive global change, he's keen on bringing people with him and powering Greater Manchester's green revolution through knowledge, people and their skills. From working with businesses on green innovation to helping shape Manchester's net zero ambitions, Amer is determined to ensure the city doesn't just adapt to the future—it leads it.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with AmerVia LinkedInVia Manchester MetConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

In this special episode, Lisa Morton revisits one of the most powerful conversations from the podcast to date — her 2022 interview with Figen Murray OBE.Figen practises kindness and teaches resilience in an effort to build a safer, more united society — one rooted in trust, respect, and compassion. After losing her son Martyn Hett in the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, she gave up her career as a therapist to study counter-terrorism and speak to young people about the dangers of online radicalisation.Originally recorded ahead of the fifth anniversary of the attack, Figen shares a deeply personal account of that harrowing night and the difficult months that followed. She reflects on the power of forgiveness, the need to understand those who've been led astray, and how small, everyday acts of kindness can have a monumental impact on our communities.Now, in 2025 Figen has had a very busy 3 years and she tells Lisa about the journey she's made since that first conversation — including the landmark achievement of Martyn's Law receiving Royal Assent, you'll hear what that means for everyone going to live events in the future and how the legislation will keep the public safe.She speaks powerfully about the need for improved security at public venues, what it's really like to work with government, raise public awareness, and ensure that no other family has to endure the same pain. This episode is a moving reminder of the enduring legacy of Martyn Hett and how the spirit of Manchester continues to drive unity, resilience, and change.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"Peace is an ongoing journey; it never ends."What motivates somebody to tackle Manchester's biggest problems?Professor Erinma Bell MBE joins host Lisa Morton to share what drove her to create change at a time when the city region was being called ‘Gunchester' and the values that have kept her on that mission for the past 25 years.Erinma is a peace activist, community leader, and councillor for Manchester City Council.In the late 1990s, Erinma was part of a community group in Moss Side that was intent on making a change. But when her friend was shot in front of her, she knew that change needed to happen faster.From grassroots activism to national recognition, Erinma went on to help set up Carisma, a conflict resolution and community cohesion charity leading initiatives that courageously tackle the pressing issues of gun and gang crime. Erinma shares her personal reflections on the significance of family values, the strength of community support, and the essential need for young people to feel a genuine sense of belonging in their environments. Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination, reminding us all of the power of activism in the face of adversity.You'll hear Lisa delve into Erinma's commitment to creating a safer environment for the next generation, the ongoing pursuit of peace in Manchester's communities and the vital role you can play in creating a brighter future for the next generation.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Erinma Via her websiteVia LinkedInConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"If you want something, you can't sit there and wait for someone to put it in your hand for you."In this episode, Lisa sat down with Victoria Braddock, the Managing Director of Marketing Manchester, Lisa heard how she and her team are putting Manchester's brand on the global stage. Victoria shares what it was like growing up in Manchester, offering ‘backies' into town on her brother's bike as a kid, her career journey from Wimpy burger as a teenager to joining ‘Marketing Manchester' over 20 years ago, find out what has made her ambitious to stay!From major international campaigns to the power of local stories, Victoria reveals what she's learnt from positioning Manchester as a must-visit destination for tourists, businesses, and investors alike. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or a proud Mancunian, this episode will give you an insider's look at how strategic storytelling fuels the city's growth. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Victoria:On LinkedInOn Marketing Manchester's LinkedInVia Marketing Mancheter's WebsiteConnect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn this episode, We Built This City has partnered with Manchester Metropolitan University. Wherever your business wants to be, Manchester Met is there to help you go further. Visit mmu.ac.uk/business or follow Business at Manchester Met on LinkedIn, to find out more.

"We always look out for each other in Manchester, no matter what."Five years ago Lisa Morton launched the ‘We Built This City' podcast in an aim to connect with born, bred and adopted Mancunians who have helped to shape this city region, not just with bricks and mortar but with their impact too. It's impossible to reflect back on that time without acknowledging the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on Greater Manchester and the world, so in this episode, you'll hear Lisa reconnect with early guests to explore the lasting effects on the community, business and hospitality sector. From innovative adaptations in the restaurant industry to the resilience of local businesses, how did Mancunians support each other at the time, and how has the city region recovered, grown and adapted? This episode captures the spirit of Manchester and its people during challenging times. Join Lisa as she celebrates five years of the podcast and shares the stories and values that emerged from adversity.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

"Legacy isn't about monuments or headlines. It's about impact."Join Lisa Morton in a reflective episode of "We Built This City" as she delves into the themes of values and legacy. This special episode revisits conversations with some of the guests who have joined Lisa on “We Built This City” over the past year, including Gethen Jones and Julie Hesmondhalgh. Learn how Manchester's unique character shapes their sense of purpose and legacy. You'll hear stories of community support, creativity and collaboration and Lisa speaks to the importance of leaving a lasting impact. As 2024 comes to a close let's celebrate the resilience, creativity, and collective spirit that defines Greater Manchester.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

Gethin Jones shares his morning with the nation right from Manchester City centre. In this episode, you'll hear how Gethin's Welsh roots have been entwined with Manchester since the late 90's first coming here as a student.You'll learn how Gethin has been immersing himself in the community here for the past few years through his work both on-screen and off, as he's settled in Greater Manchester.Lisa and Gethin discuss his unplanned foray into TV presenting, starting his career in double denim and how he's always aiming to make his Dad proud. And Gethin reflects on the impact he wants to make and shares the unique tool he used to figure out the legacy he wants to leave. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Gethin On Instagram

“Everything we do is all about relationships”We Built This City host Lisa Morton isn't the one asking the questions this week, she shares with you her conversation on the 3:00AM Conversations podcast from international Law firm Hill Dickinson.Hosts Peter Jackson and Anjon Mallik hear how Lisa made her way as a young female entrepreneur in the 1990's, to become a leader in communications in Manchester. They uncover how, inspired by James Kerr's “Legacy”, Lisa and her team developed a business that's committed to its values, purpose and legacy. They learn about Lisa's resilience, her fight against perfectionism, and the values she and her team live by that drive business success.'Click here to follow and listen to more 3:00AM Conversations

Remembering the legacy left by Sir Howard BernsteinThis week Lisa attended the memorial for Sir Howard Bernstein, impacted by the emotions, tributes shared and lasting values. She wanted to re-share with you their conversation on the podcast. As the Chief Executive of Manchester City Council for nearly 20 years, Sir Howard was instrumental in getting the city back on its feet after the IRA bomb in 1996. He then carried on his regeneration mission for almost two decades, galvanising public and private partnerships, changing the skyline and creating new communities in addition to bringing The Commonwealth Games to Manchester.In their conversation recorded in the 2020 lockdown, Lisa Morton found out how you rebuild a city and the values that drove Sir Howard to grow the community. Sir Howard also shared some warm words of advice and support for Greater Manchester as the city region was rebuilt after the pandemic.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

"Manchester is just a place of opportunity, whatever it is that you do."Nicola Marsh is a born and bred Salfordian and Managing Director of Essence Mediacom North.Nicola created a career for herself in digital advertising in the early days of the internet, you'll hear about how she continues to navigate this constantly evolving media landscape, and her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion at Essence Mediacom.In this episode, host Lisa Morton hears how Nicola went from driving around Salford selling newspaper adverts and drinking brews with her clients, to creating a place for local talent to thrive, whilst shaking up the digital advertising world.Nicola reflects on what Manchester's vibrant nightlife has meant to her over the years, Manchester's unique sense of community, and opportunities and she speaks to how businesses can contribute to Greater Manchester's growth. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Nicola and Essence Media Com NorthOn LinkedInOn Instagram

"The whole point about building a city is it isn't one person's project.”Colin Shenton is the founder and CEO of Shenton Group, a property company he started in Manchester in the late 1980s, when the city looked and worked very differently. You'll hear about the deal Colin made the very beginning of his career, and how he handled the restoration of a heritage building aged just 21.Colin shares with Lisa his passion for revitalising some of Manchester's oldest buildings, blending the old with the new adding to Manchester's unique architectural charm.This episode delivers captivating stories, about buildings that are instantly recognisable parts of Manchester's skyline and streets, as well as parts of the city you may have never known were there. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with ColinOn InstagramOn LinkedIn

“This is my city now till I die. I absolutely love it."You will probably know Julie Hesmondhalgh as the legendary actor who took on the much-loved role of trans character Hayley Cropper on ITV's Coronation Street. Julie and host Lisa Morton discuss everything from Julie's beginnings in Accrington; how she became one of the UK's most cherished performers and how Manchester has now become ‘her city'. You'll hear about Julie's deep involvement in local theatre in Greater Manchester, including her key role in the efforts to save Oldham Coliseum theatre from closing forever.This is a heartwarming conversation about the transformative power of the arts, the importance of activism, and the strength of community.Julie speaks about the 500 Acts of Kindness project she set up for Greater Mancunians who need them. Click the link above to join the Facebook page and learn how you can help.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Julie On XOn Instagram

"There's a culture of creativity in our city”Dave Moutrey has been an integral part of Manchester's arts and cultural scene since the 1980's. He sits down with host Lisa Morton to discuss his journey to becoming a cornerstone of creativity in the city. Lisa hears about Dave's formative years, where the sparks of his passion for the arts were ignited during memorable trips to London. It was punk that inspired Dave to move to Manchester, a city that would become his canvas for creativity.In this episode, you'll hear how he played a pivotal role in establishing the cooperative ‘Arts About Manchester'; how he ran the iconic ‘Corner House', and led the £25 million move to Manchester's arts centre HOME. Dave tells Lisa about his current work in shaping Manchester's new cultural strategy and together they delve into the significance of creativity, community, and collaboration in making Manchester a cultural hotspot for years to come.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Dave Via InstagramVia LinkedIn

"What ​I ​love ​about ​Manchester, is ​it's ​constantly ​evolving”Seema Malhotra combines glitz, glamour and proper manc graft.On this episode of ‘We Built This City' host Lisa Morton is joined by the co-founder of fashion brand ‘Forever Unique' and star of the reality show ‘The Real Housewives of Cheshire'. Seema candidly shares her experiences of juggling cultural and family expectations whilst trying to find her own identity in Manchester in the 90's. You'll hear what it was like to establish a clothing brand in the textile quarter of the City and how Seema and her husband worked tirelessly to take it to the heights of the Fashion industry, and ultimately what it was like closing the doors on that brand after 30 years.They also touch on her unwavering passion for Manchester United and why Roy Keane holds a special place in Seema's heart.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with SeemaOn Instagram On X

‘Girls ​like ​me, ​​they ​just ​don't ​do ​history.'Dr Michala Hulme is a genealogist and broadcaster connecting people with their family history. In this episode, you'll learn about the real people from Greater Manchester's past and how they lived their lives. Michala has an incredible talent for uncovering family trees, and her mission is to make history accessible and engaging for everyone. Host Lisa Morton chats to Michala about her particular interest in the Victorian era of Manchester, her early interest in family history and the obstacles she faced and overcame in her educational pursuits and early career. You'll also learn about the unique experiences she had working on the doors of Manchester nightclubs in the 1990s whilst studying history. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Michala Via her website On LinkedIn

"The whole city centre's my playground."Take a stroll through Manchester's rich history and it's vibrant present with Jonathan Schofield, a born and bred Mancunian. From its industrial roots to its modern-day resurgence, Jonathan shares intriguing stories and quotes that capture the essence of Greater Manchester's spirit. Tour Guide and Editor-at-large of ‘Manchester Confidentials' Jonathan Schofield uncovers forgotten facts of Greater Manchester, shares his favourite hidden gems of the city region and how to keep people looking back in a city that is rapidly moving forward. In this episode, you'll discover alongside host Lisa Morton how the city reigon has evolved over the years, the importance of keeping the stories of Greater Manchester's places and people alive, don't miss this engaging walk through time and place!------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Johnathan Via his websiteOn XVia Manchester Confidentials

Matty is a long-time Manchester resident with an intriguing journey, over his 25 years in the city region he's become a well-known figure in Manchester's food and drink scene, you may have seen his videos with Manchester's Finest exploring some of Mnachester's best food and drink venues.In this episode hear how Maty went from bartending across Manchester to broadcasting to the region, and what it was like to take on the role of live TV presenter when he landed a gig on Channel 4's ‘Steph's Packed Lunch'. This episode is not just about professional achievements but also about the power of resilience and the importance of finding your community. Matty opens up to Lisa about the profound impact of learning about his biological father as well as overcoming homelessness as a teen. These experiences have significantly shaped his perspective on life, raising his own children and led him to help others experiencing homelessness in Manchester through the Greater Manchester Mayor's Charity.Join host Lisa Morton for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the food and drink culture of Manchester.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the nearly 28 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Charity Bus Pull - 22nd August Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with MattyOn InstagramOn XOn YouTubeOn LinkedIn

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Greater Manchester with Lisa Morton as she explores the enduring values that make Mancunians remarkable. This episode of 'We Built This City' brings together stories from past guests like Sharon Latham, Siobhan Johnston and Anna Jameson and others who embody the city's spirit of connectivity, generosity, and resilience.You'll hear stories of unexpected friendships and connections, career pivots and discover the power of connections, the magic of loyalty, and the spirit that has shaped Manchester's legacy this is an episode that's not just about a city, but about the people who make it great.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

Dive into the vibrant world of punk rock, DIY ethos, and the transformative power of music with John Robb an adopted Mancunian who has built a life in the beats and bars of Manchester.John is a prolific writer who was the first to write books on the likes of the Stone Roses and The Charlatans Discover the untold stories behind the city's gritty rise to musical fame and how John's relentless creativity continues to shape its future.Join Lisa Morton to hear how a punk kid from the coast became a cornerstone of the city's music scene, and why he believes Manchester's perpetual state of change is its greatest strength.John is currently on a spoken-word tour and you can find out more about that here.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with John:Via ‘Louder Than War'On X FKA TwitterOn Instagram

“We look after the community and try to grow Manchester” Julie Twist is a property pioneer who has been helping to shape the city's skyline since 1994. In this episode of "We Built This City," Julie recounts her unexpected leap from supermarket employee to city centre property specialist celebrating 30 years of her company, Julie Twist Properties. Discover alongside host Lisa Morton how Julie took on a male-dominated industry aged only 23, and what it was like to navigate a business through historic events like the Manchester IRA bomb.Julie shares insights on the seismic shifts in Manchester's real estate landscape, the rise of luxury developments, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with a burgeoning business. Find out how you create a community where there wasn't one before and what it takes to create a 24-hour city.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with Julie On RightmoveVia her websiteOn LinkedIn

“All of these formidable women, it's amazing”To mark International Women's Day 2024, Lisa Morton is asking some of Greater Manchester's most inspiring role models what they are both celebrating and campaigning for in 2024. In this special episode of We Built This City, Lisa explores what's changing for women across boardrooms, classrooms, changing rooms and dancefloors.You'll hear from Jane Kenyon, founder of Girls Out Loud, Radio 1's Victoria Jane, Zalena Vandrewala, chair of Women of the Year awards, Yvonne Harrison, CEO of Women In Football and Natasha Davies, Senior Marketing Manager for fine dining group, D&D London, who made it onto Northern Power Women's Future List for 2024. Find out what they are proud of, what they're still fighting for - and which Greater Mancunian women inspire them to keep pushing for change.Girls Out Loud have an upcoming fundraising ball on 19th April find out more information here.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

“Music is all around us in Manchester. It really is!”Join Host Lisa Morton as one of Manchester Music's most influential figures DJ Paulette shares stories of breaking barriers and beats in a male-dominated industry, from blagging a lifetime Hacienda membership to spinning records at the city's most iconic venues. In this episode, Paulette reflects on the legendary “Flesh” club night the Hacienda's first gay event, where Paulette's soundtracking helped to create cultural shifts and the unforgettable nights that were a testament to the transformative power of music.Hear what is was like for Paulette to lose all of her live event work overnight during the pandemic, her involvement with StreamGM how the reaction of mancunians made her proud to be from this city.Hear the insights and stories behind DJ Paulette's much-anticipated book “Welcome to the Club, The Life and Lessons of a Black Woman DJ” It tells the story of over 30 years of living a creative life, the intersection of gay and rave culture and using music to shake things up.Paulette is celebrating her book launch and International Women's Day with an event at the Whitworth Art Gallery on March 7th 2024. She'll be in conversation with AFRODEUTSCHE. You can get free tickets here------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterConnect with PauletteBuy her bookVia her WebsiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

“We couldn't have picked a better city to build this arena”Dive into the electrifying world of live events with Sam Piccione. Sam is the President International of Oak View Group, the company behind the much-anticipated Co-Op Live Arena.Sam's work has taken him from the United States to China, London, and now Manchester, where he's helping to create a new state-of-the-art venue. Sam and host Lisa Morton discuss his journey from music-loving New Jersey kid to key player in the global live events scene. With iconic Manchester venues, like the Hacienda, the Free Trade Hall and the Ritz, what will this new space bring to the city and how do you build something brand new yet still incorporate the values of a Manchester institution like the Co-op? Sam and Lisa discuss the unique features of Co-op Live, its community impact, and why Manchester is the perfect setting for this new chapter in live entertainment. Sam explains what it will feel like to be one of thousands of fans watching your favourite artists at Co-Op Live. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with SamOn LinkedIn

“You can have such a laugh with Manchester artists” Yvonne Shelton's musical career is as rich and varied as the city itself. Her voice has echoed through the city's vibrant music scene for the past 40 years. She has performed as a backing singer for global stars, provided vocals for some of Manchester's best-known artists and sang centre stage as part of the much-loved Hacienda Classical. Yvonne's journey is a melody of resilience, community, and is a testament to the city's nurturing soul and its knack for producing enduring talent. You'll hear about the supportive network of artists in Manchester that Yvonne is a part of and how you create connections that can lift people up.Host Lisa Morton learns about the challenges of racism and sexism in the music industry, and the unyielding spirit that propels artists like Yvonne to keep their heads to the sky. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn Spotify

“All good cities don't turn their back on the river”Dive into the transformational journey of Manchester's urban landscape. John Hughes has been a key player in the city's development for the past 20 years in his role at Ask Real Estate. John started work just days after leaving university in 1997 when the city was still recovering from the IRA bomb. He's since shaped some of the city's groundbreaking developments, like First Street, HOME and Embankment. From the days of post-industrial decline to the bustling metropolis Manchester is today, discover the inside track on the city's regeneration. This conversation takes you through the placemaking and relationships that have formed the city.So what does John think about gentrification and the rapid growth of Manchester? What are the values Ask Real Estate is keeping at the forefront whilst leaving a lasting legacy on the city's skyline? You'll hear about all this and more in this episode. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with Ask Via their websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA Twitter

“We're finding our feet again as a city.”Lisa Morton is in the process of talking to one hundred born, bred and adopted Mancunians that have been - and are - the building blocks of Greater Manchester. At the start of a new year it's time to both reflect and look forward. Who's going to be running the city?What are the events we'll be looking forward to?And how is Manchester's skyline going to change? Lisa's joined by Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, Joanne Roney OBE CBE; Entrepreneur and Business owner Karina Jadhav, Broadcaster Anna Jameson and the Co Founder of OBI property Will Lewis, to look at these issues and more. This episode is a celebration of Greater Manchester's spirit and a look ahead to its bright and promising horizon.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn Spotify

“I just love telling people's stories”When Michael Taylor left Lancaster for university studies in Manchester, he gained more than a sociology degree - he found a city to call home, a true adopted Manc.Experience 1980s Manchester through Michael's memories of the clubs, relationships and a cultural vibrancy he came to embrace and love.What did Michael learn from being at the heart of the city's business world as the editor of Business Insider, and what are the valuable lessons that have informed change in Manchester over the past 20 years?Michael's career has taken him down several different avenues into politics and academics, so what led him to recently return to his first love, journalism and become editor of online magazine The Business Desk.com and what does he feel is still left to be written?This conversation demonstrates the power of place in shaping identity and the relationships and connections that help to build a career in Manchester.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn X FKA TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with Michael On X FKA TwitterOn LinkedIn

“I started listing what I needed from a childcare provider” When Jennie Johnson's childcare plans fell through on a work trip to London, she had a lightbulb moment that led her to create a hugely successful business. Jennie founded the children's nursery chain Kids Allowed. By the time she sold that business, 20 years later, Kids Allowed was providing childcare services for over 2000 kids a week. Jennie is now the co-founder of My First Five years. It's an app that gives parents the information they need - and takes some of the stress out of parenting. Hear about Jennie's drive, her ideas and how her network supports her with the ups and downs of being a business owner. Lisa and Jennie also discuss the challenges of balancing work and family life as female entrepreneurs. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with My First Five Years: Via their websiteOn Instagram On Twitter

“I came here with a blank page to be written on”PR mogul Andy Spinoza came to Manchester from London in 1979, drawn by the city's radical history, its growing music scene and the urge to find a place to “fit”.Lisa Morton finds out how he tried and failed to interview Tony Wilson in a front room in Rusholme's Moon Grove, what it was like to launch the alternative magazine “City Life” and why he described himself as “Manchester's human pinball” during his time working as the diary columnist for The Manchester Evening News.Andy started his own PR firm SKV Communications in the late 90s and had a hand in the architectural regeneration of Mancher's city centre, working on the likes of the launch of Beetham Tower in the mid-2000s So, what drove him to recently call time on his PR business and instead chronicle 40 years of musical, social, and architectural transformation in the city that made him?Andy's new Book “Manchester Unspun” captures a moment in Manchester's rich cultural history and encapsulates a city in artistic and political flux.------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn TwitterOn SpotifyConnect with AndyBuy his bookOn InstagramOn Twitter

“Go out there and create. You've got to do it.”Actor John Henshaw joins Lisa Morton for a conversation in City Tower, which overlooks Manchester city centre. It's a very different skyline to the one John came to love as a child growing up in Ancoats during the 50's and 60's. John, who was one of 14, was born and raised on George Leigh street. He jokingly describes his childhood as “feral', but with lots of love, pets and community. Hear how John made the transition from bin man to respected character actor; what it was like working alongside Craig Cash and Caroline Aherne and how a role in The Royal Family led to him epitomising everyone's pub landlord in iconic series Early Doors. You'll also get a great insight into Manchester history from someone who's seen that area of the city experience dramatic change. ------Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre. From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture.To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world.Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield: Via our websiteOn InstagramOn TwitterOn Spotify

Who's putting the "great" into Greater Manchester? We Built This City is all about the people, places and relationships that have built the fabric of modern Manchester. Season 4 launches on 2nd November. In this series, host Lisa Morton brings you the remaining 22 of 100 born, bred or adopted Mancs that have impacted the city region.

"No one's better than anyone else, everyone's the same"  Anna Jameson is the broadcaster who wakes up Greater Manchester as the presenter of BBC Radio Manchester's breakfast show.  She's also a reporter on North West Tonight and you can hear her on BBC Radio Five Live too.   Lisa and Anna discuss how Anna's late Nan still inspires her, when she's holding powerful people to account.  Lisa also discovers what it's like to be breaking news stories one minute, then holding people in power to account and interviewing celebrities the next.   —------------------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Anna:  On Twitter  On Instagram 

“Get young people interested and believing they have a voice”  This episode of We Built this City is all about the future of Greater Manchester.  Lisa Morton sat down with Councillor Garry Bridges and Manchester's Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs), to talk about what young people need for their future. Over the past 12 months, Manchester has responded with a game-changing programme – “Our Year” - a legacy initiative to address the long-term impact of Covid-19 lockdowns on our younger generations. Better engagement, more activities, opportunities for personal growth and platforms to form positive connections are at the heart of “Our Year” and will also be an integral part of Manchester's move in 2023 to become a Unicef UK Child-Friendly city. Manchester's three MYPs Virginia Collins, Daanya Isa and Lois Adela tell Lisa what drove them to stand for the Manchester Youth Parliament, the changes they're working towards and what they've learnt about themselves since being elected. In this alternative perspective on Manchester, you'll hear what these young people want from and for the city region.  It's more than fair to say that Manchester is in very good hands for the future.   ------------------- Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Manchester MYP's and Councillor Bridges Lois Virigina  Daanya Counselor Garry Bridges

Lisa Morton has a new podcast. It's called Lobster Brain and it features interviews with highly successful people to find out how they got to the top. Click here to follow the podcast now.

“The only way we got our rights is by showing solidarity” Divina De Campo is a force to be reckoned with, both on stage and off.  They've got the ability to sing in 5 different languages and up and down 4.5 octaves - whilst wearing some incredible outfits and heels.  Divina has the best laugh in showbiz and there are some real laughs in this conversation too.  Underpinning it all though, are some strong values and belief systems that have contributed towards Divina's vibrant and unforgettable on-stage presence. You'll hear about the grit and graft it takes to make a career in the creative industries and the reality of taking part in some of the UK's biggest entertainment shows.  Divina's time on Ru-Paul's drag race UK created an iconic moment of television, when they addressed the damaging effects of section 28 in schools whilst they were growing up.  You'll hear  Divina and Lisa explore this as well as the action that can be taken to stand up for LGBTQ rights in 2022. —------------------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Divina On Instagram  On Twitter

“For me it's about giving opportunities to others.” Maria Turner is the Client Services Director at Roland Dransfield. She's recently celebrated 10 years at Roland Dransfield, having worked her way continuously from work experience - straight out of The University of Manchester - all the way to the leadership team.   Maria was an integral part of the team that created the “Roland Dransfield Way”, a set of values that form the core of the business. In this episode, you'll hear that she lives those values day in, day out. So what draws a Scouser to Manchester, to work here, to strengthen relationships and help build this city (whilst wearing some of the highest stiletto ankle boots Manchester has ever seen)? This conversation is about crafting a career and creating a legacy within a company and a community. Lisa and Maria discuss the “pits and peaks” of 10 years in business together and the “purposeful relationships” the business has created in that time.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify  Connect with Maria  On Twitter

“If I'm not an artist, what am I?” Artist Davo Howarth joined Lisa Morton in “Heaven” at Hotel Football for this week's episode.  It's a place that's very close to Davo's heart as it overlooks Old Trafford football ground.  A born and raised Manc, Davo is an artist who describes his style as “explosive.” In this conversation, you'll hear how he navigated the school system growing up as a creatively minded kid who'd rather be painting than playing PlayStation. Davo says people would tell him being an artist wasn't a career option but he carved out his own path to creative success all the same.  Hear about the values of discipline that have kept Davo consistent with his work, how he deals with self-doubt and how a recent health scare has forced him to re-evaluate his priorities and take a slower pace of life for a while.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Davo On Instagram On Twitter Via his website 

Tony Michaelides has been described as a walking, talking, encyclopaedia of music. He's been described that way for good reason, because he's worked with everyone from David Bowie, to New Order to Take That.  Tony worked in promotions and as a consultant in the music industry.  He's also very well known in Manchester for his time at Piccadilly Radio, where his nickname was “Tony the Greek”.   He describes himself as “an adopted yank, but always a Manc”.  He now lives in the United States after the US government granted him a green card for services to music and the arts.  In this episode, you'll hear some fantastic stories taken from his book “Moments That Rock”, about everyone from the Happy Mondays, to U2, Simply Red, James and the Stone Roses.    ================================== Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Tony: On Twitter  Via his website

“Hopefully, people see me and think ‘I could do that too'” In this episode, Lisa is joined by Manchester-born and raised Kyle Walker. Kyle is a presenter and reporter for Sky Sports, former host of BBC Radio Manchester's “The Dead Good Show” and contributor on Football Focus and Match of the Day. Kyle is proud of his roots and is passionate about showing young people from Manchester that they don't need to fear stepping out of their comfort zone to achieve their goals. Despite being only 30 Kyle has grafted to get to where he is now and he's managed to fit a lot in. You'll hear about the people who've inspired him, the values and sayings that have kept him on track and the opportunities that made his career include; chatting with Pep Guardiola in the back of a cab and interviewing the other Kyle Walker….  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify  Connect with Kyle  On Twitter On Instagram

“Continuing a Pride that Manchester can be proud of” This week the city is celebrating Manchester Pride 2022. Across the weekend there will be the annual parade, vigil, parties and a new Human Rights rally in celebration of Manchester's LQBTQ+ community. This episode shines a light on Manchester Pride: the festival weekend, the people who bring it all together and the community that surrounds it. Host Lisa Morton will be finding out what it means to people in the city region as well as the work that has been done to refocus the event.  You'll hear Pride CEO Mark Fletcher explain the values that have been driving this year's celebrations, how it supports Manchester charity LGBT Foundation and you'll hear from previous We Built This City guests on the place and families that LGBTQ+ people find in Manchester.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 26 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Manchester Pride: On Twitter On Instagram  Connect with LGBT Foundation: On Twitter On Instagram  Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

“Manchester is a place where young people come, to find their feet and then fly.” Manchester has hosted graduation ceremonies for thousands of students recently, who have reached the end of their undergraduate and postgraduate studies. It's a good time to celebrate everything Manchester has to offer its students, from the amazing creative and tech industries to the ever-growing music scene and nightlife.   Poet, author and previous guest on We Built This City, Lemn Sissay, has been the Chancellor of The University of Manchester since 2015.  He's made many contributions to the University in that time, but now he's handing over to Nazir Afzal.  On this episode you'll hear Lisa reflect on the work Lemn's been doing, as well as hearing from Tom Bloxham MBE, Leader of Manchester City Council Bev Craig and actor and comedian John Thomson, on their student days in the city. ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

Bev Craig is the leader of Manchester City Council, a job she describes on her Twitter biog as “running the best city in the world”. She grew up on a council estate just outside Belfast, and it wasn't the kind of place where you'd be expected to move away and go to university.   But as you'll hear - Bev's not the kind of person to be pigeonholed.   She got involved in politics at a young age,  through getting involved in women's and LGBTQ+ rights.  Making sure that ALL people have places in which they feel safe and welcome, has been right at the core of her politics.   You'll hear about Bev's plans for housing in Manchester, her thoughts on the government's current proposal for the HS2 integration into Manchester Piccadilly, and you'll get an insight into Bev's thoughts on the past few weeks of turmoil in Westminster.  

Emma Goswell is a broadcaster, podcaster and author who champions the stories of LGBTQ plus people.   Her podcast and book, “Coming Out Stories', shines a light on the experiences of 100's of people of all ages and backgrounds, from all over the world.   Emma co-hosted the groundbreaking Gaydio breakfast show in Manchester when the station first went national.   She won a Sony award for her work for the prison radio association, and you can also hear her on Virgin Radio Pride, with her show “The Weekend Outing”. Emma recalls the time she was drafted in to advise the creators of Brookside on how to accurately portray British television's first lesbian kiss and how she ended up washing and blowdrying an award-winning bull as part of her extremely successful ‘Manhunt' programme on BBC Radio Manchester. Having recently struggled through a difficult birth for her daughter, Niamh, Emma expresses her gratitude to the NHS and drives home the importance of respecting other people for who they are and embracing those from all walks of life.   ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Emma On Twitter Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

William Lees-Jones took over the family's brewing company, JW Lees, in 2004 and now owns pubs across the North-West of England and Wales. His forward thinking and proactive approach has earned him a reputation for invoking radical changes within his industry whilst sticking to traditional values and championing the culture that surrounds the local. He recalls the struggle of ensuring the safety of his employees over the course of the covid lockdowns and the various actions they took to protect the JW Lees pubs. You'll also hear how he has helped to  support underprivileged communities and young people across Manchester through projects such as the Mahdlo Youth Zone in Oldham and Manchester's Community Foundation, Forever Manchester.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Will  On twitter Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

"If you can see the poverty in Greater Manchester or anywhere and not act, I'm worried.” - Vikas Shah MBE Ahead of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee on Friday 3rd June, we are taking a look back at those, of our guests, who have been recognised for their acts of service to others, to their communities and to causes they hold close to their hearts.  Join us for a special episode in which we will hear the inspirational stories of the Mancs who have been awarded MBEs, OBEs, Deputy Lieutenant and High Sheriff and the reasons for which they have chosen to devote their lives to service.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

“I'm going to publicly forgive the terrorist who killed Martyn, because anger breeds anger and hate breeds hate - somebody needs to break the cycle.” Figen Murray practises kindness and teaches resilience in an effort to build a safer, united community in which people trust and respect each other. After losing her son, Martyn, in the Manchester Arena attack she gave up her career working as a therapist to study counter-terrorism and now speaks to young people about the dangers of online radicalisation. Ahead of the 5th anniversary, you'll hear Figen describe the harrowing night of the attack and the difficult months that followed, the value of forgiving those who have been led astray and the power of small acts of kindness in making a monumental improvement to each of our lives.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Figen Via her website Via Twitter

“For us it's all about the future, it's about laying down the foundations with new composers and new communities that we can make a difference in, in the future.” Bob Riley came from the “cow pats of East Yorkshire” to the “hustle and bustle of Manchester” after his talents on the violin secured him a place at the Royal Northern College of Music. He has now held the position of Chief Executive at the Manchester Camerata for almost 16 years, he joins Lisa at the Camerata's new home, Gorton Monastery.  Bob talks about the Camerata's efforts to connect with the local community and its focus on hosting projects and events that will have a positive impact. He describes how they are challenging judgmental ‘concert hall traditions', opening up spaces to a wider range of artists and audiences and allowing people to clap whenever they feel like it.  ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

“It was that dark moment that powered me forward - that year I went on to achieve things I never thought were possible.” Scott Thomas, owner of Social PR, Food4Thoughts and his own personal brand, knows the struggle of beating your demons and overcoming difficult times. The desire to reach his full potential has driven him to continually work on himself, both mentally and physically, so that he can support the people around him.  His journey to fame began hosting exclusive club nights across Manchester where he built a network of like-minded business people. From there he began to build his companies, starting off selling selfie-sticks and hoverboards, and now running a highly successful PR company as well as a self-improvement program.   In this episode, you'll hear how becoming labelled ‘the academic one' shaped his identity, the importance of beating the stigma surrounding men's mental health and how the community spirit of Manchester has captured Scott's heart. ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify

“It's about creating a new generation of Mancs who believe they can do anything” Can a museum do exactly that? Sally MacDonald is the Director of the Science and Industry Museum, and that's her aim. Sally learnt about the importance of looking and storytelling through objects, after attending an art class at Manchester Museum as a child.  Her passion continued as she studied archaeology and went on to open museums in London -  before being pulled back up north by the job at MOSI in 2014. In this episode, you'll hear how the museum fuses together old and new technologies to keep industry alive; how it's responding to the return of visitors post-pandemic, and how it's working towards achieving Manchester's ambitious carbon-negative goals. ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Sally and MOSI Via the MOSI website On LinkedIn On Twitter

“I'm living the dream - Manchester United fan, boy and man” What's it like to live your dream? Alan Keegan is otherwise known as “The Voice of Old Trafford”, where he's the corporate MC and matchday compere.   Alan's family came to Manchester from the west of Ireland in the late 50's. They settled in Chorlton Upon Medlock, where his mum ran a shop, which was a real hub of the community.  With players like George Best, Alan and his family were cemented as lifelong supporters of Manchester United.   He's been working at Manchester United since the late 90's. In this episode, you'll hear the stories of the managers and players that have passed through during that time, and you'll hear what Alan's learnt from them about leadership and teamwork too. ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Alan On Instagram On Twitter Via his Website 

“So much of social media was a gold rush” At 28 Dominic McGregor has already sold his first very successful business Social Chain which he co-founded with Dragon Steven Barlett, Dom has now moved into the world of investments with Fearless Adventures. He says he knows what it's like to start a company and face the business world for the first time overwhelmed, so, he is driven by helping first time entrepreneurs on their venture.  Hear what it was like to work in the social media space in the very early days of social media content and marketing and how Dom and Steven went from winging it to creating a business culture with values that saw a great team form around them and go onto big things. ------ Your host, Lisa Morton, started PR company Roland Dransfield in 1996, one month after the fateful IRA bomb that tore apart the city centre.  From that point, the business, and its team members, have been involved in helping to support the creation of Modern Manchester – across regeneration, business, charity, leisure and hospitality, sport and culture. To celebrate the 25 years that Roland Dransfield has spent creating these bonds, Lisa is gathering together some of her Greater Mancunian ‘family' and will be exploring how they have created their own purposeful relationships with the best place in the world. Connect with Lisa and Roland Dransfield:  Via our website On Instagram On Twitter On Spotify Connect with Dom On Twitter On Instagram Via his website