Explore East London’s Legacy: Hackney and Newham History Podcast Season 2

The vibrant tapestry of East London’s past and present comes alive in the newly launched second season of The Hackney and Newham History Social Podcast. Produced by Immediate Theatre and hosted by acclaimed actor and broadcaster Sue Elliott-Nicholls, this docuseries delves into the soul of Hackney and Newham, weaving together human-interest stories, music, and soundscapes that showcase the area’s dynamic history and enduring spirit.

Podcast cover art of The Hackney and Newham History Social Podcast

Contents hide

1 The Podcast’s Mission: Bridging Past and Present

2 Sue Elliott-Nicholls: A Local Voice for Local History

3 Preserving History Through Storytelling

4 What Makes This Podcast Unique?

5 The Creative Process Behind the Podcast

6 Why This Podcast Matters Today

7 How to Listen

The Podcast’s Mission: Bridging Past and Present

Building on the success of the first series, which explored life in Hackney and Newham from the 1960s through the 1990s, this new season shifts focus to the intricate links between past and present. Topics like family resilience, local entrepreneurship, and cultural evolution are at the forefront, alongside pressing modern challenges such as:

Fractured Communities: Stories that examine the changing dynamics of neighborhoods.
Gentrification: A deep dive into how redevelopment reshapes the social fabric.
Cost-of-Living Crisis: The impact of economic pressures on family-run businesses.

Through the lens of these stories, listeners are invited to reflect on the resilience and creativity that have defined Hackney and Newham over generations.

Sue Elliott-Nicholls: A Local Voice for Local History

Sue Elliott-Nicholls brings her deep connection to East London to the podcast. Having called the area home since the 1980s, Sue’s roots run deep, from working in local pubs during her early acting days to raising her family in the community.

“East London has been my home since the 80s. My husband works in the community, and we’ve raised our family here,” Sue shares. “But it wasn’t until this podcast that I really started paying attention properly to the history right on our doorstep.”

Sue’s take on gentrification offers a thoughtful perspective:

“People often ask me about gentrification, and my answer is simple: areas change, especially in London. Just pay attention to what was here before you came.”

Preserving History Through Storytelling

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with the Hackney and Newham archives, the podcast was initially envisioned as a way to document firsthand accounts of local life. These recordings soon evolved into something far more ambitious—a living, breathing narrative of the boroughs’ communities.

What Makes This Podcast Unique?

The Hackney and Newham History Social Podcast stands out for its ability to connect deeply with its audience, reaching more than 50,000 listeners across two seasons. Its blend of heartfelt storytelling and immersive sound design has not only earned it critical acclaim, including an award nomination, but also made it a cherished local treasure.

Key highlights of the podcast include:

Hidden Weddings: Intimate tales of secret ceremonies that defied social norms.
Cherished Recipes: Culinary stories that celebrate cultural heritage.
Savings Clubs: Community-led initiatives that helped families thrive.
National Front Resistance: Harrowing yet inspiring accounts of solidarity against racism.

These stories, often told by those who lived them, paint a vivid portrait of East London as a place shaped by both love and struggle, resilience and creativity.

The Creative Process Behind the Podcast

The Immediate Theatre team has worked tirelessly to bring authentic narratives to life. From sourcing stories in partnership with local archives to integrating immersive soundscapes, every episode offers a cinematic experience that resonates with listeners.

Why This Podcast Matters Today

As Hackney and Newham continue to evolve, this podcast provides a vital space for reflection. It captures the voices of those who’ve lived through seismic shifts, offering a rich oral history that connects past struggles with contemporary challenges.

How to Listen

The Hackney and Newham History Social Podcast is available on all major podcast platforms, ensuring easy access for history enthusiasts, local residents, and anyone intrigued by East London’s unique culture.