This week on the Local Heroes Podcast, Chris and Dan talk to the all-weather Jen Bartram, weather broadcaster, communicator, and proud North East native. Like our very own average host, Chris, Jen was born in South Shields and raised in Hebburn – like all good humans. What begins as a nostalgic, laugh-filled chat about growing up in the North East quickly becomes a thoughtful and revealing conversation.

From memories of 80s kids’ TV (Danger Mouse, He-Man), street games, buses, and sweet-shop favourites, the episode flows into Jen’s unexpected journey into broadcasting.

She shares how she moved from studying languages and student radio into weather broadcasting, learning on the job, ad-libbing live on air, and managing the intense pressure of live television -especially when the graphics disappear and there’s nothing to point at!

Jen also talks about her work beyond broadcasting, including teaching, communication skills training, and delivering a 'bucket list' TED Talk. She offers honest insight into public-speaking anxiety, explaining why nerves and excitement feel the same in the body, and shares practical advice on staying present, reframing fear, and focusing on what you know rather than the size of the occasion.

One of the most powerful moments comes when Jen speaks openly about online trolling and appearance-based abuse. She reflects on how it affected her confidence, why “just ignore it” is rarely helpful advice, and how empathy and understanding play a crucial role in coping and recovery.

From ghost dogs, to how corned beef pie lies at the heart of a buffet masterclass - this is an episode built on genuine connection, warmth and good banter.

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