Title

PODCASTS

Inside the Local Authority of the Year

Back in June, Knowsley Council was named 'Local Authority of the Year' award at The MJ Awards. In this episode of podcast Our World is Local hosts Nick Kilby and Heather James speak to Knowsley chief Mike Harden.

Back in June, Knowsley Council was named  'Local Authority of the Year' award at The MJ Awards. In this episode of podcast Our World is Local hosts Nick Kilby and Heather James speak to Knowsley chief Mike Harden. 

Mike's career in local government spans almost 40 years - 28 of them at Knowsley. He talks about the culture and achievements that made the council award-winning. Mike will be retiring from his position at the end of 2024, and will be doing so on an incredibly high note!

Hosted by Cratus Group CEO 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 ⁠⁠on Spotify  and wherever else you listen to your podcasts.

PODCASTS

People, purpose – and power

By Ellen Care | 19 December 2025

Five pioneering councils have teamed up with Collaborate CIC to share insight, solve problems collectively and build their influence – all with a common goal...

PODCASTS

Investing in homes that work for councils and residents

By Josie Parsons | 19 December 2025

Delivering homes that are financially sustainable and socially valuable is a priority that’s becoming increasingly challenging. Housing investment discussion...

PODCASTS

Pillars that unlock purpose, unblock barriers

By Andy Begley | 18 December 2025

Andy Begley lays out the four pillars he believes are essential to accelerating transformation – showing why real progress depends on borrowing the best idea...

PODCASTS

EXCLUSIVE: Councils stripped of asylum data access

By Dan Peters | 18 December 2025

Councils have been stripped of access to information about asylum seeker accommodation after the Home Office cracked down on sharing data due to a leak, The ...