IofC UK Insight

About IofC UK Insight

Inspiring stories of personal change and social action, with guests whose life and work are shaped by faith.

Publisher

Initiatives of Change UK

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Nov 2024

Latest episode

18 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   18 Jun 2026

   Faith, Purpose and Service with Linda Raabe-Marjot

   Denis Nowlan hears from newly appointed IofC UK trustee Linda Raabe-Marjot about her remarkable journey across countries, careers and callings. Born in Hamburg to a German father and English mother, Linda reflects on her childhood, navigating family separation, and growing up between cultures. She describes how her German heritage continues to shape her identity and informs her interest in history, reconciliation and social justice. Linda discusses her academic journey studying German and French at Oxford, her transition from teaching into commercial property law, and the realisation that professional success alone was not enough. A deep sense of vocation ultimately led her back to education, where she found fulfilment teaching and mentoring students as a law lecturer. Central to the conversation is Linda’s Christian faith. She recounts her unexpected introduction to Christianity as a child, the role faith has played in guiding major life decisions, and how it continues to shape her understanding of purpose, service and leadership. The episode also explores her long-standing commitment to charitable work, including educational projects in Uganda and Zimbabwe, support for vulnerable communities, and her passion for ensuring that privilege and opportunity are used responsibly for the benefit of others. Finally, Linda explains what drew her to Initiatives of Change: its roots in moral and spiritual renewal, its commitment to reconciliation, and its belief that lasting change begins with individuals willing to examine their own lives and values. In this episode: Growing up between Germany and England Identity, forgiveness and family history From languages teacher to lawyer and back to education Discovering purpose through vocation The role of Christian faith in shaping a life of service Educational and community projects in Uganda and Zimbabwe Social justice, stewardship and environmental responsibility Why Initiatives of Change resonated with Linda's values and experiences The importance of reconciliation in a divided world Guest: Linda Raabe-Marjot, Trustee, Initiatives of Change UK Host: Denis Nowlan For more information about Initiatives of Change UK, visit Initiatives of Change UK (https://uk.iofc.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).

2. 

   5 May 2026

   A New Chapter: Leadership, Faith and Social Justice with David Westlake

   In this special transition episode, Denis Nolan sits down with his successor and new Executive Director, David Westlake, for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, faith, and the future of Initiatives of Change UK. David brings over 35 years of experience across international development, anti-slavery work, and values-based leadership, including senior roles at Tearfund and as CEO of International Justice Mission UK. In this conversation, he reflects on the moments that shaped his career, the challenges of working in some of the world’s most difficult contexts, and what drew him to Initiatives of Change at this pivotal moment. Together, Denis and David explore the enduring relevance of IofC’s mission, and what it might look like in a rapidly changing world.

3. 

   23 Feb 2026

   David Stokes: Trustee, Leader, Bridge-Builder

   In this episode of IofC UK Insight, Denis Nowlan is joined by David Stokes, Trustee of Initiatives of Change UK, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, faith, technology, education and service. David brings over 25 years experience of global leadership in the technology sector, including as Chair of IBM UK and senior roles across Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. David reflects on how working across cultures has shaped not only his professional approach but his understanding of people, community and purpose. Denis and David explore what it means to lead with values in complex times, from the rise of AI to the importance of listening in a polarised world. This Insight episode is an honest, hopeful reflection on leadership as service and on the lifelong journey of learning and faith.

4. 

   7 Nov 2025

   Joi McAtee - Faith, Justice, and the Fight for Democracy

   Host Denis Nowlan speaks with Joi McAtee, a trustee of Initiatives of Change UK, joining from Louisville, Kentucky. Joi brings a transatlantic perspective and a remarkable blend of leadership, conviction, and compassion. A former Executive Director at Louisville Metro Government, she is now a PhD researcher and graduate instructor at the University of Louisville, as well as a candidate for State Representative for Kentucky’s 43rd District. In this inspiring conversation, Joi reflects on her journey from public service to politics, her commitment to equity and youth empowerment, and her grounding in Christian faith. She discusses: The urgent fight against authoritarianism and threats to democracy in the United States How faith informs her activism and leadership Lessons from sport, orienteering, and public life about resilience and purpose Her call to “be who you needed when you were a kid” in mentoring young people The deep connection between love of God and love of neighbour and how that shapes her response to racism, injustice, and division The story of how a chaotic first trip to Caux, Switzerland led to her enduring involvement with Initiatives of Change. Through humility, humour, and hope, Joi reminds us that personal transformation and social justice are inseparable, and that courage, faith, and love can move even the heaviest arcs of history toward justice. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and find more episodes at iofc.org.uk (https://www.iofc.org.uk/).

5. 

   3 Oct 2025

   A Life Shaped by Listening – with Cathy Boobbyer

   In this episode, host Denis Nowlan speaks with Cathy Boobbyer – psychotherapist, university chaplain, educator, and trustee of Initiatives of Change. Cathy’s life has been marked by extraordinary experiences across Northern Ireland, South Africa, England, and Ireland. Growing up in Cape Town during apartheid, she witnessed injustice first-hand and helped organise multi-racial youth camps with IofC, experiences that deepened her Christian faith and nurtured a strong political conscience. After studying History at Oxford University, Cathy spent over 30 years living and working in boarding schools in South Africa, the UK, and Ireland, alongside her husband Mark. These years gave her unique insight into the struggles young people face – whether in privileged environments or in communities of extreme disadvantage. Now an integrative psychotherapist and member of a university chaplaincy team in Dublin, Cathy provides a safe and collaborative space for students and clients to explore life’s challenges. Her approach is always rooted in empathy and the belief in the connection between mind, body, and soul. Cathy’s story is one of resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to helping others find their voice.

6. 

   5 Sept 2025

   From Personal Faith to Global Citizenship: Michael Smith’s Journey of Encounter, Service and Compassion

   In this episode of IoC UK Insight, host Denis Nowlan speaks with Michael Smith, a man whose life has spanned continents, cultures, and communities. A trustee of Initiatives of Change in France and the UK, Michael shares his extraordinary journey from his multi-national European roots to a lifetime of service across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Michael’s story takes us from rural France to Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Chile, and beyond. Along the way, he and his wife Agnes embraced a life of simplicity, faith, and deep human connection, whether working with young people, supporting interfaith dialogue, or building health centres in some of the poorest communities in the world. He reflects on: Growing up in a multicultural family and becoming a true ‘global citizen.’ Meeting his wife in Malaysia and building a shared life of mission and service. Immersing himself in interreligious dialogue and finding shared humanity across faiths. Transformative years in the Philippines, including work in urban slums and health projects. Learning life’s deepest lessons from those living in poverty and marginalisation. His long relationship with Initiatives of Change, and how it bridges personal faith with global action. Michael’s warmth, humility, and stories - often told through vivid personal encounters - offer a compelling reminder of the ‘gold’ in every human being, no matter their circumstances. Listen now for an inspiring conversation about faith, cultural connection, and what it means to live a life of purpose across borders.

7. 

   28 Jul 2025

   Eternal Happiness and Reconciliation with Yuki Fujita

   Captions are available on the video version of this episode, which some listeners may find useful. In this deeply moving and globe-spanning conversation, host Denis Nowlan sits down with Yuki Fujita, a Japanese politician, humanitarian, and peacebuilder, whose name fittingly means ‘eternal happiness.’ Yuki shares the extraordinary journey that led him from post-war Japan to Oxford, Switzerland, refugee camps in Southeast Asia, and ultimately into the heart of Japanese politics. He reflects on his lifelong commitment to reconciliation, particularly between Japan and its Asian neighbours, and the pivotal role of moral leadership and spiritual purpose in his work. From singing Japanese songs in a multicultural youth theatre to negotiating between rival Cambodian factions, Yuki’s story is one of courage, compassion, and faith. This episode is a masterclass in living a life guided by conscience and service. ‘We shall not make the same mistake again.’ - the message of the Hiroshima cross Yuki wears, and a call to all humanity. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and let Yuki’s life of ‘eternal happiness’ light the way.

8. 

   19 Jun 2025

   Faith and Creativity: Worship in Contemporary Society

   Church leader Martin Young discusses faith, leadership, and worship with Denis Nowlan, exploring the evolving nature of church and the role of creativity in expressing faith in this interview.

9. 

   8 May 2025

   From the Personal to the Political with Dave Belden

   Dave Belden recounts his upbringing in a communal MRA household and his evolving perspectives on faith, politics, and justice in an interview with Denis Nowlan, providing insights into personal and systemic change.

10. 

    4 Apr 2025

    Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Reality of God

    Visiting Scholar Andrew Dawson discusses how the Oxford Group movement shaped Dietrich Bonhoeffer's spiritual and ethical convictions with host Denis Nowlan, revealing insights into his theological development and resistance to Nazism in this interview.

11. 

    6 Mar 2025

    The Cost of Truth in Russia

    Host Dennis Nowlan interviews journalist Sophia Kayes, who recounts her experiences growing up in a family of Russian dissidents and highlights the importance of independent journalism in combating misinformation.

12. 

    20 Dec 2024

    The Balfour Project; Its Genesis and Mission

    Monica Spooner and Andrew Whitley discuss the genesis and mission of the Balfour Project with host Denis Nowlan, exploring its impact on public opinion and policy regarding Israel and Palestine in this interview.

13. 

    5 Dec 2024

    From the Personal to the Global; A Conversation About Change

    Member of Parliament Mike Kane discusses his journey to Initiatives of Change with Denis Nowlan, exploring the intersections of faith and career in an interview.

14. 

    21 Nov 2024

    A Very Simple Secret

    Author Judi Conner discusses her upbringing within the Moral Re-Armament movement, now Initiatives of Change, and its impact on her family, offering insights into its history and values in this interview.

15. 

    7 Nov 2024

    Something Borrowed, Something New: How a Faith Movement Spoke to a Secular Age

    Historian Dr. Grace France discusses the evolution of Initiatives of Change, formerly Moral Re-Armament, and its impact on faith and cultural change in an interview with Denis Nowlan.

Who has been a guest on IofC UK Insight

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Dave Belden
• Andrew Dawson
• Sophia Kayes
• Monica Spooner
• Andrew Whitley

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

57,543

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 35 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

39

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

0

Contact IofC UK Insight

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.