Hull Trains is launching a new podcast highlighting mental health conversations taking place during real train journeys.
The open access rail operator is releasing Moving Minds to coincide with Time to Talk Day, recording episodes onboard services running between East Yorkshire and London King’s Cross.
The video podcast brings guests into a specially created carriage studio to discuss wellbeing and personal experiences.
Actor Gemma Oaten hosts the series, widely recognised for roles in Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Holby City. As chief executive of eating disorder support service Seed, she has frequently spoken publicly about her own mental health journey and advocacy work.
The first episode launches this week and features Channel Five star Graeme Hall, known from Dogs Behaving Badly. Travelling from his hometown of Selby to Hull, Graeme joins Gemma to explore the positive impact animals can have on mental health and reflects on adapting to sudden public recognition.
Future episodes will include Olympic gold medallist and Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire Luke Campbell, who will discuss handling social media scrutiny alongside his personal experiences with mental health.
The series will also feature John Venable, founder of The Big Communi Tea in Selby, sharing the powerful story that inspired his charity work.
The podcast launch reflects Hull Trains’ wider commitment to supporting mental health conversations among both staff and passengers, the company says. Every frontline manager has completed mental health and wellbeing training, while all colleagues have access to continuous support and guidance.
Gemma Oaten said: “Mental health matters and I am excited to team up with Hull Trains to celebrate the power of open conversations about feelings.
“This series aims to normalise talking about mental health with fascinating guests, starting with my friend Graeme Hall.
“Creating a podcast studio onboard has been incredible, and combining meaningful chats with a relaxed train journey feels very special.”
Deborah Birch, Head of Human Resources at Hull Trains, added: “The launch of Moving Minds is a significant moment as we celebrate twenty-five years serving customers. Mental health support is something we care deeply about for colleagues and passengers.
“We hope the podcast encourages honest storytelling, as train journeys often create valuable thinking time and opportunities for important conversations.”
Moving Minds is the company’s first podcast project and will be available on the Hull Trains YouTube channel and major podcast platforms from tomorrow, 5 February.
The operator also continues supporting its chosen charity partner, P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery, helping deliver vital mental health and rehabilitation support locally.
