WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast

About WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast

The WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast series explores the ideas, innovations, and voices shaping a more sustainable, resilient, and future-ready world. In each episode, environmental journalist and presenter Lucy Siegle is joined by WSP experts and industry leaders to unpack the big topics driving change — from climate resilience and net zero to digital transformation, smart cities, and beyond. Together, we tackle the challenges facing sectors like energy, infrastructure, and water, and explore the practical steps being taken to deliver long-term social and environmental value. Whether you’re a policymaker, engineer, innovator or just passionate about creating a better future, WSP’s Positive Impact podcast brings you the insight and ideas shaping the world ahead.WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast: Future-ready solutions for a better tomorrow. Disclaimer: The WSP’s Positive Impact podcast series is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for independent, tailored professional advice. No reliance may be placed on the content of the podcasts and listeners will need to seek independent professional advice tailored to their specific needs. The views and opinions expressed by the guests on the podcasts are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, nor WSP and its affiliates. Insofar as the content of the podcasts was created by WSP, WSP retains all intellectual property rights and asserts all moral rights in relation to the podcasts and their content (including enclosures and attachments). Unless WSP has provided express prior written consent, no part of the podcasts may be used, published, reproduced, distributed, or communicated by or to any third party. WSP accepts no liability in respect of the content of the podcasts nor as to its suitability for any specific use (including by any third party).

Publisher

WSP

Category

business · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

11 Jun 2025

Latest episode

14 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Jul 2026

   Transforming Healthcare from Hospital to High Street

   In this episode, we explore how digital transformation is creating smarter healthcare, from the corridors of NHS hospitals to the counters of local pharmacies and GP surgeries. Our host Lucy Siegle is joined by Cara Williams, Chief Information Officer, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust and Kevin Sureshkumar, Technical Director, Digital Transformation, WSP. They unpack how digitisation is not just about technology but about enabling better outcomes, more personalised care, and a more resilient health system. You’ll hear about the world-class digital innovations being developed for new hospitals, while also learning what existing hospitals can do to use digital to make estates and care smarter. We’ll also spotlight the importance of inclusive design and digital access in community settings, ensuring no one is left behind in the shift to smarter, more connected care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, policymaker, or simply curious about the future of the NHS, this episode offers a hopeful and practical look at how digital innovation is delivering real-world impact, one patient, one service, one community at a time.

2. 

   12 May 2026

   Bridging the Gap: Future-Proofing Ageing Infrastructure

   Much of the UK’s infrastructure is ageing and yet it remains fundamental to how society functions. From the moment we turn on the lights or run a tap, to travelling by road or rail, we rely on assets that were often built decades, even centuries, ago. At the same time, budgets are constrained, climate pressures are intensifying and public expectations continue to rise. So how do we make sure the infrastructure we already have continues to perform safely, reliably and sustainably, long into the future? In this episode of WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast, host Lucy Siegle explores what it really takes to manage ageing infrastructure in a changing world. She is joined by Steve Denton, Managing Director of WSP’s Civil Engineering Unit and Vice President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, and Professor Andrew McNaughton, Chair of Network Rail High Speed Limited, for a wide‑ranging and thoughtful conversation. Together, they unpack why ageing infrastructure has become such a pressing issue, why asset management is ultimately about decision‑making rather than just maintenance, and how uncertainty plays a central role when dealing with long‑life assets. They reflect on the reality that almost everything we depend on today will still need to be working decades from now — and that rebuilding everything simply isn’t an option. With practical insights, real‑world examples and honest reflections from decades of experience, this episode is a must‑listen for anyone interested in the future of infrastructure, decarbonisation, resilience and how we make the most of what we already have. Find out more: Reviving our ageing infrastructure report - https://nepc.raeng.org.uk/reviving-ageing-infrastructure/ (https://nepc.raeng.org.uk/reviving-ageing-infrastructure/)

3. 

   4 Feb 2026

   From Vision to Reality: The Art of Delivering Major Infrastructure

   This episode of Positive Impact dives into the challenges of delivering major infrastructure projects. From railways to nuclear power plants, and energy upgrades to new reservoirs, infrastructure is designed to boost economic growth and deliver benefits to the lives of communities. Host Lucy Siegle is joined by Matt Steele, Chief Operating Officer at National Gas, and Kerry Bangle, Major Projects Director at WSP, to discuss how complexity, funding pressures and growing community expectations have all created a complex infrastructure delivery landscape. They explore the need for certainty in planning and execution, the growing interconnectedness of projects and the importance of authentic engagement with communities, while stressing the value of upfront scoping to reduce risk and cost. Both our guests call for better storytelling to attract talent into the industry and build trust in our projects and those delivering them. The conversation also touches on skills development and creating positive legacies through local employment and education.

4. 

   4 Dec 2025

   The Climate Cake: Blending Action, Resilience, and Nature

   In this energising episode of WSP’s *Positive Impact* podcast, our host Lucy Siegle explores the “triple challenge” of climate action: mitigation, adaptation, and restoration, asking how we can prevent the worst impacts of climate change, prepare for the ones already happening and restore nature in the process. She’s joined by David Riley, Head of Carbon and Climate Adaptation at Anglian Water, who shares his journey from carbon sceptic to climate strategist, revealing how data-driven decisions, supplier engagement, and low-carbon materials are transforming water infrastructure. Alongside him, Rachel Skinner, WSP’s Executive Director for UK Government Relations and Corporate Responsibility, brings clarity to the conversation, challenging the misuse of climate buzzwords and advocating for cross-sector collaboration across buildings, transport, water, energy, waste and digital infrastructure. Together, they unpack why clear definitions matter more than jargon, how government support can feel like a rollercoaster and why the same actions that reduce carbon also cut costs and build long-term value. With practical insights, real-world examples, and honest reflections on what’s working - and what’s not -, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the ideas, frameworks, and voices shaping a smarter, greener future. Find out more: Positive Impact podcast homepage - Positive Impact podcast: Future Ready ideas for a better tomorrow | WSP (https://www.wsp.com/en-gb/insights/positive-impact-podcast)

5. 

   13 Nov 2025

   Charging Ahead: The Skills Driving the Great Grid Upgrade

   In this episode of WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast, host Lucy Siegle is joined by Malcolm Lewis, Cost & Commercial Director for the Great Grid Upgrade at National Grid, and Kirsten Oliver, Managing Director for Energy at WSP, to discuss the people powering the UK’s largest electricity grid overhaul in generations. Together, they explore the scale and urgency of the Great Grid Upgrade, a nationwide programme designed to connect new sources of clean energy, such as wind and solar, to homes and businesses across the country. The conversation highlights the critical need to train, attract and retain a diverse and skilled workforce to deliver this ambitious energy transition, emphasising that the future of the sector depends on a wide range of skills, from engineering and digital expertise to project management and environmental planning. The guests stress the importance of making careers in energy infrastructure accessible to people from all backgrounds, not just those with traditional degrees and discuss how collaboration between industry, government and education is essential for building a future-ready workforce. Ultimately, the episode is a call to action for curiosity, inclusivity and collective effort, showing how flexible career pathways and a focus on people are key to powering the UK’s clean energy future.

6. 

   14 Oct 2025

   Unlocking Nature Markets : Local Strategies for Environmental Transformation

   In this episode of WSP’s Positive Impact podcast series, BBC1 reporter and presenter Lucy Siegle explores the transformative power of Nature Finance, a concept that is redefining how we approach environmental restoration and economic regeneration. The episode highlights how Yorkshire is becoming a living laboratory for innovative, finance-driven environmental solutions. Lucy is joined by leading voices in sustainability and landscape strategy: Ludo Pity, Director of Landscape Advisory at WSP; Ed Dick, CEO and Co-founder of Great Yellow; and Shaun Berry, Head of Environment and Sustainability at North Yorkshire Council. Together, they delve into the practical applications of Nature Finance, examining how targeted investment in natural capital such as peatlands, woodlands, and biodiversity can unlock local economic opportunities while tackling climate and ecological challenges. Listeners will get a clear understanding of what Nature Finance entails and why it’s gaining traction. The episode showcases Yorkshire’s pioneering efforts in landscape-scale restoration, the critical role of public-private partnerships in funding nature-based solutions, and real-world examples of nature finance delivering tangible community benefits. Whether you're a policymaker, investor, sustainability professional, or simply curious about the future of nature markets, this episode offers an engaging and accessible look at how financial innovation and ecological stewardship can come together to build a better world. “Yorkshire is showing the world how restoring landscapes can also revive communities and economies.” Find out more: Local Investment in Natural Capital > Mayoral Combined Authority (https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk/project/local-investment-in-natural-capital/) Final Report - The Economics of Biodiversity: The Dasgupta Review - GOV.UK  (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/final-report-the-economics-of-biodiversity-the-dasgupta-review) Disclosure The WSP’s Positive Impact podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for independent, tailored professional advice. The podcast does not constitute, nor should it be construed as, a financial inducement, incentive, or recommendation to act in any way. No financial or other benefit is offered or implied in connection with its content. No reliance may be placed on the content of this podcast and listeners will need to seek independent professional advice tailored to their specific needs. The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, nor WSP and its affiliates. Insofar as the content of this podcast was created by WSP, WSP retains all intellectual property rights and asserts all moral rights in relation to this podcast and its content (including enclosures and attachments). Unless WSP has provided express prior written consent, no part of this podcast may be used, published, reproduced, distributed, or communicated by or to any third party. WSP accepts no liability in respect of the content of this podcast nor as to its suitability for any specific use (including by any third party). Great Yellow Limited is an Appointed Representative of Infinity Asset Management LLP which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

7. 

   19 Aug 2025

   Building confidence: Designing the UK’s Long-term Solution for Nuclear Waste

   In this episode of WSP’s Positive Impact podcast series, we explore the role of nuclear energy in the UK’s energy future and the critical importance of managing radioactive waste safely and responsibly. Host Lucy Siegle is joined by Professor Neil Hyatt, Chief Scientific Adviser at Nuclear Waste Services, and Professor Chris Jackson, Technical Director of Subsurface Storage at WSP, to unpack the science and strategy behind the UK’s Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) programme. They discuss the evolution of the UK’s nuclear industry, the origins of radioactive waste and why long-term deep geological disposal has become the internationally preferred solution. They also explore the collaboration and cutting-edge geoscience needed to deliver a project of this scale, how communities are engaged in the siting process and why transparency is vital for building trust. It’s a fascinating look at one of the biggest engineering and societal challenges of our time. Learn more ·       WSP’s expertise and project experience in Nuclear Energy (https://www.wsp.com/en-gb/sectors/nuclear-energy)

8. 

   22 Jul 2025

   Harnessing AI for Water Sustainability and Climate Resilience

   In this episode of our WSP’s Positive Impact podcast series, presenter Lucy Siegle delves into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) with a focus on the water industry and supporting climate resilience through nature-based solutions. She is joined by guests Dan Scott, Chief Data Scientist at WSP and Angela MacOscar, Head of Innovation at Northumbrian Water, to discuss how AI can be utilised to enhance water management, improve efficiency, and support sustainable practices. Emphasising the importance of using AI safely and responsibly, they explore its applications in monitoring water quality, predicting climate impacts, and optimising resource allocation and review AI's role in promoting climate resilience and enhancing human well-being through innovative, nature-based solutions. Learn more: Download our report on AI and tomorrow’s workforce. (https://www.wsp.com/en-gb/insights/shaping-tomorrows-workforce-report?gfm) Read Adaptive Planning: Spreadbetting against the universe (https://www.wsp.com/en-gb/insights/adaptive-planning) by Dan Scott. Contact us to discuss how AI can help your organisation plan for the future

9. 

   24 Jun 2025

   Building the future: Breaking stereotypes and innovating in construction

   Industry experts Dale Sinclair and Mark Farmer discuss modernizing the construction industry with innovative approaches like the kit-of-parts method to advance project outcomes in an interview with Lucy Siegle.

10. 

    11 Jun 2025

    WSP's Positive Impact Podcast - Coming Soon!

    Environmental journalist Lucy Siegle interviews WSP experts and industry leaders about innovations in sustainability and resilience, focusing on practical steps for long-term social and environmental value.

Who has been a guest on WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast

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

• Dale Sinclair
• Mark Farmer
• WSP experts
• industry leaders

Reach and audience

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

Apple Podcasts (US)

1.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

4.4 / 5

7 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100

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

Quality

39

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

Contact WSP’s Positive Impact Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

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