Van Chat

Van Chat is a groundbreaking internal podcast that’s transformed how we engage our 10,000-strong workforce – of which 6,000 are frontline. The weekly bitesize video/audio podcast quickly became the company’s highest performing internal content format, achieving nearly 50,000 unique views and an exceptional 4.6/5 rating.

Designed around authenticity, simplicity, and relevance, Van Chat bridges long standing communication gaps by meeting colleagues where they are – on the move at operational sites. Unlike traditional corporate channels, Van Chat embraces a conversational tone, prioritising warmth, clarity, humour, and genuine storytelling. Each episode showcases a different team, highlighting the people and personalities behind the essential work our colleagues do every day.

Frontline crews have embraced the series, eagerly tuning in for relatable conversations, practical insights, and the sense of connection it brings across our geographically dispersed organisation. The format’s accessibility—via Viva Engage, WhatsApp group sharing, and posters with QR codes across all sites – ensures that colleagues can easily watch or listen during commutes and breaks.

Produced in house, the series represents a significant skills development milestone for the Internal Communications team. Its unscripted style, bold visual identity, and trademark features – such as the hard hat questions and quiz – set it apart as both engaging and memorable.

More than a podcast, Van Chat has become a cultural touchpoint, referenced in meetings, used by leaders to illustrate business priorities, and widely seen as “for us”. It’s shifted engagement from passive consumption to shared understanding – humanising our corporate communication and strengthening pride.