Our World is Local with Jonathan Stephenson
In this episode of Our World is Local, hosts Nick Kilby and Heather Jameson are joined by Jonathan Stephenson, Chief Executive of Brentwood and Rochford Councils, for a candid conversation on the challenges shaping local government today, from election uncertainty and devolution delays to capacity pressures and declining trust in the system.
Alongside the politics and policy, the episode shines a light on something more personal: the Public Sector Challenge. What began as a mission to raise money for cancer charities has grown into a nationwide movement focused on wellbeing, connection and community across the sector.
Jonathan shares how the challenge has evolved – from the iconic Three Peaks to the growing programme of events including the London Bridges Walk, regional community challenges, and even the ambitious new Ultra Challenge, taking on five peaks across the UK and Ireland in just 48 hours. With over 850 people tackling the peaks, 1,000 crossing London’s bridges, and more than £400,000 raised, the impact is already significant.
More than just fundraising, it’s about getting people moving, talking, and reconnecting with why they came into public service in the first place.
An honest, insightful and ultimately uplifting episode about leadership, resilience, and the power of collective action in challenging times.
Hosted by Cratus Group Executive Chairman Nick Kilby and the Editor of The MJ, Heather Jameson, the ‘Our World is Local’ podcast is a space to learn about the key figures in local government, highlighting the tremendous work they do for the communities they serve. You can listen to the previous episodes here.
You can listen to the previous episodes on Spotify here and wherever else you listen to your podcasts.
