Undercurrent Stories artwork

Undercurrent Stories

120 episodes - English - Latest episode: 8 days ago -

I started this show during the first lockdown in 2020 as a way of using the extra time at home productively. As of July '23 I have had the privilege of interviewing over 70 guests talking about and sharing their many varied interests. Stories that are not necessarily making the headlines but that are equally important and hidden just below the surface! Subjects include history, music, philosophy, fitness, beer, writing, film making and many others. There is bound to be a subject that interests you but if not, the enthusiasm and passion of the guests, will I am sure provide you with valuable entertainment and learning as they share their life stories and life lessons. Thank you for listening. IG:https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/ FB:https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstories/ TW:https://mobile.twitter.com/undercurrentst1

Documentary Society & Culture stories interests passions hobbies discovery history environmental music books fitness
Homepage Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

How to Cook Your Best Curry Ever! with Al's Kitchen

March 20, 2024 15:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MB

Do you enjoy curries particularly those available in Indian restaurants or takeaways? Have you tried making them at home? If like me you have and they are ok,  but never quite taste as authentic as the chef made ones in restaurants, then this episode is for you... Al Constantinou is host of Al's Kitchen which is one of the most popular and successful BIR, (British Indian Restaurant), style cooking channels on YouTube. With over 200 videos to choose from,  Al teaches how to make all your fav...

365 ways to Live a More Relaxed, Happy and Successful Life: Penny Mallory

March 14, 2024 15:00 - 45 minutes - 31.1 MB

Penny Mallory was the first woman in the world to compete in a Ford Focus World Rally Car and remains the only woman to have achieved this. She is an author, highly sought after Keynote Speaker and recognised as one of the world leading authorities on mental toughness. Successful people are mentally tough. No one can avoid the minefield of setbacks, crisis, tragedy and challenge that is part of being alive. Life throws obstacles in your path daily, but mentally tough people can manage the s...

What Man Abandons, Nature Reclaims: David Poxon, Watercolour Artist

March 06, 2024 14:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MB

When you were a child did you ever have a particular passion or interest? Did it fade away as life and making a living took over? Or is it something that you have put off and you have been meaning to get back to?  If you would like some renewed inspiration this episode is for you!  Welcome to a captivating exploration of the harmonious marriage of art and industry, where the rhythmic hum of machinery provides the soundtrack to the dance of watercolor. In this episode, we journey into the wo...

Shrouded in Scandal: Stamford's Lesser-Known Dark History with Bill Cunningham

February 28, 2024 13:00 - 31 minutes - 21.3 MB

In this repeat from one of the show's most popular episodes  you are invited  to join us on a stroll down the historic lanes of Stamford, where the tales of Saxon settlers and Georgian grandeur intertwine, brought to vivid life by my guest, local historian and raconteur, Bill Cunningham. As Bill peels back the layers of time, we wander from the River Welland's influence on the town's inception to the stone-crafted beauty that defines its aesthetic today. We muse over the significance of Stam...

Moonage Mysteries: How the Moon Has Shaped Our Lives and Civilisation with Rebecca Boyle

February 22, 2024 13:00 - 1 hour - 43.7 MB

Have you ever looked up at the moon in the night sky and wondered why it’s there, how it was formed and  what effect it has had on us humans and animals down on Earth? Here to answer those questions and many more I’m joined by Rebecca Boyle. Rebecca is an award winning science journalist contributing to Scientific American, The New York Times and many other publications. She is author of the book, Our Moon: A Human History. How Earth’s Celestial Companion Transformed the Planet, Guided Evolu...

The Seaweed Revolution: How Seaweed Can Save Our Future with Vincent Doumeizel

February 14, 2024 13:00 - 50 minutes - 34.8 MB

Embark on a captivating journey through the depths of our oceans as we uncover the hidden wonders of seaweed with Vincent Doumeizel, Senior Advisor to the United Nations Global Compact and Director of the Food Programme  for the Lloyd's Register Foundation. Prepare to have your perceptions of this oceanic flora reshaped as Vincent guides us from its role in battling global hunger to its remarkable environmental advantages. Discover how this underappreciated resource could hold the key to a s...

How to Deal with Damn Near Anything: John McGlothlin's Paratrooper's Guide To Life

February 07, 2024 16:00 - 26 minutes - 18.3 MB

Join us as we sit down with John McGlothlin, a former US Army paratrooper turned author, to discuss the invaluable lessons from his military experience that translate into everyday life. John shares his compelling personal journey from his youth, living with his grandmother, to his post-9/11 military service as an Arabic linguist, JAG officer, and eventually an adjunct professor. Listen in as we unravel the five key traits  that John has identified and cultivated throughout his career, all o...

Rediscovering the Electric Warrior with Danielz from T.Rextasy

January 31, 2024 14:00 - 34 minutes - 23.7 MB

Feel the rhythm of a bygone era as I sit down with the charismatic Danielz of T.Rextasy, the acclaimed and world's only officially endorsed T.Rex tribute band. In our heart-to-heart, we peel back the layers of nostalgia, tracing the influence of the legendary Marc Bolan on a generation of music enthusiasts. Danielz recounts his own transformation from a sports-loving teenager to a dedicated musician under the spell of Bolan's "Jeepster," drawing parallels to my own discovery of T-Rex's magne...

Indiana Stones: The Man Revitalising Ireland's Stone Lifting Legacy

January 25, 2024 16:00 - 33 minutes - 23 MB

Join us on a journey to the heart of Ireland as we welcome the extraordinary David Keohan, better known as Indiana Stones, to share his transformation from a life of revelry to a champion in kettlebell sport and a pivotal figure in resurrecting the ancient tradition of stone lifting in Ireland. Listen in as David recounts the rigorous training, dedication, and profound personal growth he encountered on his path to success. His tale isn't just about physical strength; it's a rediscovery of a ...

Courage and Conquest: Serena Brocklebank's Double Ascent of Everest

January 18, 2024 13:00 - 1 hour - 52 MB

Scaling the towering heights of Mount Everest is a feat that many of us can only dream of, but for Serena Brocklebank, it's a dream conquered not just once, but twice. Join us as Serena shares the poignant saga of her climbs, weaving her family's legacy with her own relentless pursuit of mountaineering's ultimate challenge. Her anecdotes reveal more than just the physical preparation required; they delve into the mental fortitude, the close shaves with danger, and the strength found in the c...

How the Texas UFO Sightings of 1897 Inspired Author Brian Kaufman

January 11, 2024 12:00 - 38 minutes - 26.5 MB

At the ripe age of 40, Brian Kaufman decided to carve out a new trail, trading his chef's hat for a pen and transforming his lifelong writing dreams into gripping tales that cross genres. Our latest episode welcomes Brian, an author whose works are as diverse as his background, which includes stints as a radio host, pro wrestler, and blues guitarist. We delve into his journey and his latest novel, "A Persistent Echo," where he merges historical intrigue with the fantastical elements of a UFO...

Making Friends With Monsters with award winning author Sandra L. Rostirolla

December 13, 2023 17:00 - 44 minutes - 30.5 MB

This episode features Sandra L. Rostirolla award winning  author of young adult fiction. In one of our most deep and sensitive conversations to date Sandra discusses her new book 'Making Friends With Monsters' which aims to help end the silence around suicide. Drawing on her own tragic family experiences Sandra hopes that the book will help teenagers navigate adolescence and feel able to talk about their emotions and what's going on inside. Studies from Emory University and University of Ro...

Making Lives Better - Stewart Hill

December 07, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 49.5 MB

Today’s guest is Stewart Hill former Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army. On the 4th of July in 2009, Stewart led 160 men in a close combat fight against the Taliban in some of the fiercest fighting seen by UK forces in Afghanistan. Eight hours later, medics battled to save his life after shrapnel from an (IED) tore in to his brain. Not surprisingly, he returned a different man, but, incredibly, he has converted his experiences into a catalyst for new possibilities and a fascination wit...

Hooked on Rhythm: A Conversation with Drummer and Fly Fisherman Rob Waddington

November 23, 2023 14:00 - 39 minutes - 26.9 MB

Step into the world of Rob Waddington, an accomplished drummer and avid fisherman residing near Rutland Water in England. Rob transports us into his dual passions, sharing his musical journey with the band New Model Army in the 1980's and his lifelong love for fly fishing in one of the most renowned spots in the UK and Europe. Join the conversation as we explore the rich history of fly fishing, the art of imitating a fish's natural food source and the camaraderie built on the riverbanks. Fr...

Discover the Inner Artist in You with Steve Carroll

November 16, 2023 15:00 - 37 minutes - 25.8 MB

Have you ever wondered if you could paint?  My guest today is successful artist and inspiring art teacher, Steve Carroll. Steve firmly believes that we all have an inherent ability to draw and paint and that it is never too late to learn. In this 30 minute episode Steve gives practical tips on how we can all learn to draw and paint and talks about his online art courses which have helped many people discover their artistic talents. We embark on an intimate journey of understanding art as St...

The Retirement Adventure of Art Educator William Adkins

November 08, 2023 11:00 - 48 minutes - 33.5 MB

Hear this inspiring conversation with William Adkins  his intriguing journey from art school graduate to a remarkable teacher in Dallas ISD and his adventures in retirement. His fascination with art and global education was not only unique but also extremely impactful, leading him to a Fulbright Fellowship and a journey to Japan that would dramatically shape his approach to teaching. As he opens up about his experiences, it's hard not to be inspired by how he globalised his classroom, encour...

Explosive Secrets: Unraveling the True Story Behind Britain's Bonfire Night with Bill Cunningham

November 01, 2023 12:00 - 42 minutes - 29 MB

(Another chance to listen to one of our most popular episodes!) Prepare yourself to be transported back to 16th and 17th century England, where religious tensions between Protestants and Catholics were at fever-pitch. We promise to unveil the untold story of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, an event in British history often shrouded in myth and misinformation. With esteemed historian Bill Cunningham as our guide, we'll walk you through the gripping tale of how a group of Catholic conspirators, le...

From Garage Band to Punk Legends: Blag Dahlia and The Dwarves

October 19, 2023 10:00 - 36 minutes - 25.1 MB

Ever wondered how a punk band leader evolves from hardcore rock to Americana? Join us as we welcome the charismatic Blag Dahlia, founder of the iconic American punk band, The Dwarves. This high-energy conversation takes us on a musical journey through Blag's roots, his varied influences and the significant shift in his music style with his latest album release under the name Ralph Champagne. We also dive into the much-anticipated release of The Dwarves 'Concept Album' set for release on Nov...

The Entrepreneurial Journey: An Exclusive Interview with Rob Moore

October 11, 2023 14:00 - 42 minutes - 29.1 MB

Prepare for an enlightening journey as we sit down with Rob Moore, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Progressive Property and the voice of one of the UK’s most followed podcasts, 'Disruptors.' Rob’s unique story of overcoming early struggles with loneliness and conflict-avoidance to build a real estate empire is sure to inspire. But it's not just about his climb to success; it's about the lessons learned on the way and the wisdom he’s eager to share with us all. Immerse yourself in an engagin...

From Italy to Pittsburgh: The Culinary Legacy of the Primadonna Restaurant with Maria and Joseph

October 04, 2023 17:00 - 39 minutes - 27.4 MB

Imagine opening a restaurant that becomes a local legend - a place where the dishes are made with love, where the ambience feels like home, and where memorable stories are shared over plates of delicious Italian food. This is the inviting world our guests, Maria C. Palmer and her father Joseph Costanzo Jr., welcome us into as they share their story about the legendary Primadonna Restaurant that Joseph crafted in Pittsburgh. For seventeen years, Joseph owned and operated The Primadonna Rest...

The Magic of Numbers: A Conversation with Mathematician Rob Eastaway

September 26, 2023 14:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

Ever wondered why buses often come in threes or found yourself captivated by the inherent beauty of numbers and patterns? Join us as we unravel these mysteries with our guest, Rob Eastaway, acclaimed author and one of the UK's leading promoters of mathematics. Rob shares his intriguing journey into the world of numbers, from his childhood filled with puzzles and games, to his significant contributions as a mathematics promoter and author. He also reveals his unconventional approach to number...

From City Streets to Mountain Peaks: Deon Barrett's Journey from Gang Culture to becoming Founder of the True North Project

September 19, 2023 13:00 - 58 minutes - 39.9 MB

As a child growing up in South West London, the great outdoors seemed like a world away for Deon Barrett. Fast forward today, he's not only a passionate outdoor adventurer himself, but also a trailblazing inspiration for young people from urban communities. The first part of our conversation journeys through Deon's transformative path from a life on the outskirts of London, enmeshed in gang culture, to finding security and purpose in the British Army. Along the way, Deon discovered a love fo...

Peter Jones on Recruitment, Innovation, and the Power of Dreaming Big

September 11, 2023 16:00 - 48 minutes - 33.3 MB

Growing up in Fulham, South-West London, Peter Jones, founder of Foyne Jones, embarked on a fascinating journey that saw him transform from a market stall worker to a prominent figure in the recruitment industry. Peter joins me to share his compelling story and valuable insights on the ever-changing recruitment landscape. He takes us through his career progression, from his early days at a builder's merchant to becoming a regional sales manager and finally, the London Sales Director at Jewso...

Ghost Signs: Illuminating Forgotten Stories with Sam Roberts

August 13, 2023 09:00 - 1 hour - 45.4 MB

Ever wondered how the fading painted signs on old buildings tell stories of a bygone era? Curious about the hidden cultural narratives they hold? Join us on Undercurrent Stories as we dive into fascinating tales of ghost signs with Sam Roberts, an expert in the field. Sam takes us on a global tour, unearthing the history of ghost signs and how they've withstood the test of time in various parts of the world. From the UK to Egypt, we uncover narratives that these signs hold, the history of co...

The Strength of a Woman in Tudor England: Celebrating Penelope Tudor Baroness with Tony Riches

August 09, 2023 10:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MB

Join us on a journey through Elizabethan England with our guest and acclaimed UK author, Tony Riches.  He's here to unravel the narrative of his latest release, 'Penelope Tudor Baroness', the fourth installment in his captivating Elizabethan series. We explore Tony's meticulous research methods, including his fascinating visits to historical locations and his use of primary sources. He also takes us through his writing process, tracing the steps from a brilliant idea to a bestselling novel. ...

The Secret To A More Interesting Life: Unlocking The Power of Lateral Thinking with Paul Sloane

July 19, 2023 13:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MB

Unlock the power of lateral thinking with our insightful conversation with Paul Sloane,  a distinguished authority on innovation and creative thinking. This episode will guide you through the fascinating concept of lateral thinking, exploring its roots and its applications in diverse fields like business, public service, and the arts as well as our personal lives. We delve into real-world instances where lateral thinking has been employed, from innovative giants such as Uber and Airbnb, to m...

Riding the Sonic Wave: Steven Blush on American Hardcore Punk.

July 12, 2023 15:00 - 59 minutes - 41.1 MB

Strap yourself in for a sonic rollercoaster ride with the inimitable Steven Blush, the New York based  author, journalist, record collector and filmmaker who stands as a living monument to alternative rock, grunge, and all things hardcore. Steven navigates us through his personal pursuit of music and journalism, charting a course from the heavy chords of his first Led Zeppelin concert to the underground punk scene where he promoted bands like Black Flag and the Dead Kennedys. Our conversat...

Unravelling Logical Fallacies: A Deep Dive into Politics and Critical Thinking with Fallacious Trump Podcast Hosts, Jim and Mark

July 05, 2023 15:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MB

Get ready for an intellectual and hilarious journey through the realm of reason and fallacy! I promise by the end of this episode, you'll have a solid understanding of how logical fallacies are woven into our discourse and how to sidestep these reasoning pitfalls. Join us as we chat with Jim Cliff and Mark Levermore, the brilliant minds behind the popular podcast Fallacious Trump. We explore the fascinating world of logical fallacies and discuss how they are used, and sometimes misused in po...

Unleashing the Wild Edge: Oli France on Adventure, Resilience, and Personal Growth

June 28, 2023 12:00 - 46 minutes - 31.8 MB

Have you ever wondered what it's like to explore the world's wildest places and embark on life-changing adventures? Join us as we welcome Oli France, an adventurer, expedition leader, and speaker who guides teams through untamed landscapes with his company, Wild Edge. Listen in as Oli shares his incredible journey from growing up in a northern town to completing a degree in outdoor leadership and discovering the true essence of adventure and personal growth. We dive into Oli's extraordinary...

Taming Egos and Rock Star Interviews: Claire Moat - Music Journalist

June 20, 2023 13:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MB

Ever wondered how music journalists navigate the world of interviewing rock stars and their infamous egos? I recently  had the pleasure of chatting with Claire Moat, a music journalist, teacher, and owner of five horses, who gave us some fascinating insights into her experiences in the music industry. Claire shares her organic journey into music journalism due to her love for literature and the company she kept, recounting tales from her interviews with rock legends like David Coverdale, Van...

The Musical Odyssey of Ted Carroll - Thin Lizzy, Rock On Record Store and Chiswick Records

June 14, 2023 15:00 - 48 minutes - 33 MB

Join me for an incredible conversation with the legendary Ted Carroll as we journey through his 60 plus-year music career. From his start in the early 50s, listening to jazz and discovering Rock and Roll, to managing the band Skid Row, which included the talented Gary Moore, Ted's experiences in the music industry are nothing short of fascinating. Listen in as we reflect on the success of the bands he's worked with, and learn how he began booking gigs for English and Irish bands in the summe...

The Godfather's Daughter with Rita Gigante

June 07, 2023 15:00 - 54 minutes - 37.7 MB

Growing up as the daughter of notorious mafia boss Vincent 'the Chin' Gigante, Rita Gigante faced unique challenges that most of us could only imagine. What makes her story even more incredible is her journey of discovering her empathic nature and psychic gifts, which she now uses to help others heal. Join me in my conversation with Rita, an acclaimed healer, psychic, author, speaker, and teacher, to explore her fascinating story. In our conversation, we explore the dichotomy between Rita's...

Uniting Communities through Youth Empowerment with Rob Deeks

May 24, 2023 12:00 - 59 minutes - 40.7 MB

Join me in a fascinating conversation with Rob Deeks, the CEO of Together As One, a youth-led charity working to bring communities together through training, youth work, and creative projects. Rob shares his personal journey and the life-changing work he's doing with the charity, which is  based in Slough in the UK. Through a combination of training, youth work, and creative projects they aim to build bridges across diverse communities and foster peace. Listen in as we discuss the origins o...

Mastering the Art of Small Talk with Debra Fine

May 17, 2023 16:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MB

Ever struggled with making small talk at a networking event or social gathering?  You're not alone - but fear not, because today we're chatting with communication expert Debra Fine! As a sought-after keynote speaker and author, Debra has helped clients like Google, Hyatt, and the International Fire Chiefs Association hone their communication skills, and she's here to share her expertise with you. In our conversation, we'll explore the techniques for mastering small talk, from defining it t...

The Fine Art of Small Talk with Debra Fine

May 17, 2023 16:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MB

How easy do you find making small talk with strangers? My guest today is  Debra Fine. In this fascinating and inspirational episode Debra tells the story of how she overcame shyness and low self esteem by listening, observing and studying conversations.  She then used what she learnt and was able to  become self confident in her own conversations with others. So inspired was she,  that she gave up her career as an engineer and determined to use what she had learned to help others improve ...

Kolkata Calling - কলকাতা কলিং Kalakātā kaliṁ

May 10, 2023 14:00 - 38 minutes - 26.1 MB

To celebrate 3 years of Undercurrent Stories we are re-releasing one of our most popular episodes! Ānḍārakārēnṭa sṭōrijēra 3 bachara udayāpana karatē āmarā āmādēra sabacēẏē janapriẏa parbagulira madhyē ēkaṭi punarāẏa prakāśa karachi! The story of how an Englishman visited India and discovered how his lifelong love and talent for art could help change and improve the lives of young people living on the streets of Kolkata. Ēkajana inrēja kībhābē bhāratē giẏēchilēna ēbaṁ śilpēra prati tāra ā...

How to use Stories and Influence People with Jason Sinclair

May 03, 2023 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

Would you like your audience to really absorb and remember the next presentation or speech you make? How often have you watched a presentation,  been overwhelmed with facts and figures and come away barely recalling anything about it? My guest argues that by incorporating a story into a corporate presentation for example, the audience is much more likely to stay motivated and the presentation  will leave a lasting impact.  He describes how he used 'The 12 Days of Christmas' in his end of ye...

Wendy Orr - How a Novel Became a Movie Starring Jodie Foster

April 26, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 57 MB

This episode features best selling and  award winning author Wendy Orr. Wendy’s many books for children have been published in 27 countries and won awards around the world. Prominent among them is Nim’s Island, which was made into the 2008 film of the same name, starring Jodie Foster; a 2013 sequel, Return to Nim’s Island, was loosely based on Wendy's book Nim at Sea. As well as discussing her books, a large part of the interview is devoted to understanding the craft of writing which will ...

Tales of Crime, Punishment and Scandal from Oakham, Historic County Town of Rutland, England.

April 19, 2023 14:00 - 48 minutes - 33.2 MB

Bill Cunningham, Historian and tour guide walks and talks us through the  streets of the historic county town of Oakham in Rutland, England's smallest county.  We hear about various people who have been associated with the town over the last 500 years. For more information about Oakham and on Bill Cunningham please see; https://www.thestamfordtownguidedtours.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/408182023445227/ https://www.instagram.com/williamdavidcunningham/?hl=en www.undercurrents...

Tales of Crime and Punishment in Oakham. The County Town of Rutland, England.

April 19, 2023 14:00 - 48 minutes - 33.2 MB

Bill Cunningham, Historian and tour guide walks and talks us through the  streets of the historic county town of Oakham in Rutland, England's smallest county.  Bill explains how Oakham has gained either fame or notoriety on a national scale due to its association with several prominent personalities including; Titus Oates (1649-1705), ‘the biggest liar in Christendom’,   Sir Jeffrey Hudson (1619-82), ‘the shortest knight in history’ Lord Lonsdale (1857-1944), the ‘Yellow Earl’ We also h...

Gary Moat (Ex Heavy Pettin') and Frontman of Hard Rock Band 'Burnt Out Wreck'

April 11, 2023 15:00 - 28 minutes - 19.6 MB

Today's show features the legendary Gary Moat who was best known as the drummer in the famous 1980s rock band Heavy Pettin.’  The band toured alongside Kiss, Ozzy Osbourne, Magnum and many more. Today Gary is the lead singer,  frontman and musical creator for rock band, Burnt out Wreck. Gary talks about his lifelong passion for music, how he started playing drums, his life in Heavy Pettin' and 'Burnt Out Wreck' the band he created in 2016. I would describe Burnt Out Wreck's music as unpre...

Rick Long TT Sidecar Champion and World's Strongest Disabled Man Winner

April 04, 2023 18:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MB

In today's show we hear the inspiring story of  Rick Long. Rick was the most successful sidecar passenger in the Isle of Man TT’s history with eight victories in total. Then in 2008 at the legendary Hockenheim race track, Germany, he lost his left leg and his driver, Steve Norbury in a tragic racing accident. Following his recovery Rick tells the story of rebuilding his body, his return to racing, becoming a personal trainer and how he discovered his new found passion for competing in top ...

Eric Bell, Lead Guitarist with Thin Lizzy

March 29, 2023 13:00 - 59 minutes - 40.7 MB

With it's haunting and mesmerising guitar intro many listeners will be familiar with the Thin Lizzy hit, Whisky in the Jar which reached no. 6 in the UK charts in 1973. My guest today is the legendary former lead guitarist and founding member of Thin Lizzy, Eric Bell.  As well as playing on that famous song, Eric recorded 3 albums with Thin Lizzy,  'Thin Lizzy,' ' Shades of a Blue Orphanage' and 'Vagabonds of the Western World.' In our conversation Eric talks about; 1) His introduction to ...

Walking on Water with Geoff Holt MBE

March 21, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 50.4 MB

This episode of Undercurrent Stories features a conversation I had with Geoff Holt MBE. I first met Geoff in 1984 at Salisbury Spinal Treatment Centre through a mutual friend, Tim Clare. The episode is one of the most inspirational conversations that I have ever had. On 5th  September 1984 eighteen year old Geoff dived into an idyllic tropical sea and his life changed forever. A broken neck cut short a promising career as a yachtsman and left him paralysed, with his horizons reduced to an...

Undercover Detective - Operation Julie. Britain's Biggest Drugs Bust with Stephen Bentley

March 08, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 45.6 MB

This episode features Stephen Bentley, who tells the story of how as a young detective in the hot summer of  1976, he went undercover as part of a large UK national operation called Operation Julie. Under the pseudonym of 'Steve Jackson,' he describes his life as a dope smoking, hard drinking hippy with the aim of tracking down the hippies and scientists known as the 'Microdot Gang,' who produced and supplied massive quantities of LSD from their base in  Tregaron, Wales. In his rich and vari...

Revealing the Secrets for a Successful Retirement with Cate Gregory

February 22, 2023 15:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MB

Are you thinking about retirement? Have you just retired? Are you already retired? This episode is for you. In today’s show I am joined by Cate Gregory. Cate spent over 20 years as a marketing professional in the corporate world and now works as a coach helping individuals reach their true potential, through her company, Attain.  As well as coaching people to develop their careers, set up their own business and many other desired outcomes she also helps individuals think through and plan f...

The Man at the Back with Clive Edwards, Drummer with bands including UFO, Wild Horses and Back Street Crawler.

February 09, 2023 14:00 - 53 minutes - 36.5 MB

This episode  features one of Britain's greatest rock drummers, Clive Edwards.  Clive is best known as a member of UFO, Wild Horses, ( Brian Robertson ex Thin Lizzy and Jimmy Bain ex Rainbow),  Back Street Crawler and many other rock acts. His drumming can be found on recordings with acts such as Phil Lynott, Pat Travers, John Cale, Lionheart, Toyah and many many others. The interview includes; The amazing story of how Clive first got into drumming from discovering his natural rhythm at sc...

England's Undiscovered Treasure at The Spinney with Dr Patrick Candler

January 25, 2023 15:00 - 39 minutes - 27.5 MB

Nestled safely behind  strong railings alongside the London to Edinburgh East Coast main line railway, just south of Grantham, lies a little known hidden treasure! In this on site live interview Dr Patrick Candler tells us the inspiring story of how 5 acres of woodland was transformed into an adventure playground . Once used as a source for local clay the land had been disused for a number of years and had become overgrown. From obtaining grants, determining land ownership and  researchin...

An Englishman in Stockholm

January 11, 2023 16:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

In today’s show I'm joined once again by Quint Starkie. Quint is an English musician originally from Accrington, Lancashire now based in  Stockholm, Sweden. Quint is about to embark on a UK tour with Francis Dunnery's It Bites from 18th January '23. We talk about Quint's latest solo album, his recent UK tour with blues based Tombstone Dunnery, his musical career and how he ended up living in Sweden. Links; http://www.quintstarkie.net/ For updates on all new episodes subscribe at; https://...

Mistletoe, Mince Pies and the Story of other Christmas Traditions with James Cooper

December 18, 2022 17:00 - 44 minutes - 30.3 MB

James Cooper, a Christmasologist, (Yes there is such a word!), reveals the history of Christmas traditions in the UK over the last 1500 years. From the origins of the mince pie, the banning of Christmas and the secret of the mistletoe, James takes us on a journey of discovery as he shares the unexplained stories behind the celebration of Christmas. Find out more on James's website; https://www.whychristmas.com/ www.undercurrentstories.com

Twitter Mentions

@undercurrentst1 17 Episodes
@totalcurtis 4 Episodes
@tonyriches 3 Episodes
@stacyjuba 2 Episodes
@cloverfilmsuk 2 Episodes
@debrafine 2 Episodes
@clovenhoofbooks 1 Episode
@tfyhpodcast 1 Episode
@slrostirolla 1 Episode
@adamcroft 1 Episode
@logosmedia01 1 Episode
@crimeficpodcast 1 Episode
@doumeizel 1 Episode
@fallacioustrump 1 Episode
@fermentradio 1 Episode
@jaegawise 1 Episode
@cornishseaberry 1 Episode
@jamescolah 1 Episode
@robprogressive 1 Episode
@paulsloane 1 Episode