Soap star hosts onboard podcast series

A rail operator is using a new digital series to spark open conversations around mental health and wellbeing.

Hull Trains has launched Moving Minds, a new mental health podcast series recorded onboard its services between Hull and London King’s Cross. 

The video podcasts feature guests sharing personal experiences and wellbeing insights while travelling on the East Coast Main Line.

Hosting the series is Hull actor Gemma Oaten, known for her roles in Emmerdale, Holby City and Coronation Street, with high-profile guests in the first run including Selby-based TV personality Graeme Hall and Hull Olympic gold medallist Luke Campbell.

Gemma said: “Mental health matters and I am super excited to be teaming up with the wonderful people at Hull Trains to celebrate the power of having a good chat about how you’re feeling. 

“This is an opportunity to normalise conversation around mental health with some very interesting guests, kicking off with my pal Graeme Hall!

“Setting up a Hull Trains carriage as our very own podcast studio has been particularly amazing. 

“I’ve been a regular customer for years and the team really supported me when I needed help with commuting to drama school in London. 

“Now, getting to combine my love for a good natter with a chilled out train journey is a real dream come true. 

“Make sure you give us a listen!”

The launch coincides with Time to Talk Day (February 5), led by the charity MIND, and reflects Hull Trains’ wider focus on mental health, with all frontline managers completing wellbeing training and ongoing support available for staff.

Deborah Birch, head of HR at Hull Trains, added: “The launch of Moving Minds is a very significant moment for us as we celebrate our 25th year of serving our loyal customers. 

“Mental health is something that we’re passionate about supporting for both our colleagues and our customers.

“I hope that this new podcast will be an opportunity for Gemma and our special guests to share their own stories and how they look after their own wellbeing. 

“A conversation can be very powerful and often a train journey provides some real thinking time and a space to have conversations that really matter.”

Moving Minds is the operator’s first podcast and is available on the Hull Trains YouTube channel and major podcast platforms.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →