Daisy Inclusive UK is proud to announce the launch of its latest podcast series, Fifty Shades of Dave.
Hosted by experienced BBC Radio broadcaster Andrew Easton and Daisy Inclusive UK CEO Dave Kelly, series two sees a number of personalities from the world of showbiz and sport chatting to the pair about their challenges as a visually impaired individual.
Guests include Australian Big Brother winner and I’m a Celebrity contestant Reggie Bird, luxury high-end photographer Robyn Lindemann and former blind England footballer Jono Heenan, with Fifty Shades of Dave offering listeners an in-depth look at the everyday challenges faced people with conditions that affect their sight, both partially and totally.
All seven episodes are available to listen to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music from Monday 2 March.
“I’m so proud of this series and I would say these episodes are by far, some of the most interesting and insightful of my time behind a microphone,” said Easton, who has interviewed a string of high-profile celebrities during his career.
“Daisy Inclusive UK is such an inspiring charity, and every episode creates more awareness for the disability community.”
Based in Everton, Liverpool, Daisy Inclusive UK is a charity that supports disabled and vulnerable people as well as their families to reach their true potential through a number of activities and programmes.
Funded by national and local organisations, Daisy Inclusive UK operates through a strategy called the Daisy Chain, which is a person-centred pathway designed to move individuals from isolation to inclusion.
• Disability Hate Crime Support: They were the first charity in the UK to have a dedicated Disability Hate Crime officer and serve as a third-party reporting centre in partnership with Merseyside Police.
• The SMILE Initiative: Standing for Self-Motivation, Inclusive Learning & Empowerment, this program offers sports, music, and independent living skills for adults (16+).
• Mini SMILE Club: A specific club for younger children and teenagers, providing holiday clubs and after-school activities.
• Employment & Training: They provide vocational training, job-seeking support, and “Disability Business Confidence” workshops for organisations to improve workplace inclusivity.
• Advice & Guidance: Assistance with benefit forms (such as PIP and ESA), housing support, and general disability-related guidance.
Daisy Inclusive CEO Dave Kelly is blind himself, having lost his sight at the age of 30 in the early 1990s and has spoken openly throughout the years about his personal challenges and struggles with his mental health.
Kelly set-up the charity in 2004, with the organisation going from strength-to-strength ever since, including an appearance on Channel 4’s The Secret Millionaire.
Episode 1
Stand-up comedian Jamie MacDonald
Episode 2
Musician and big band leader Robby Toner
Episode 3
Australian Big Brother Winner and I’m a Celebrity contestant Reggie Bird
Episode 4
US luxury high-end photographer Robyn Lindemann
Episode 5
Blind rugby player Matthew Lancett
Episode 6
Former blind England footballer Jono Heenan
Episode 7
Retina UK ambassador and Pride of Britain nominee James Clarke
