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This week's guest is Lucy Dawson, a writer, autism advocate, and ambassador for Wiltshire Council, who shares her inspiring journey navigating life as an autistic person. Lucy opens up about her experiences growing up, the challenges of self-acceptance, and her path to embracing her neurodiversity. From her unique family dynamics to the solace she found in music, Lucy discusses how her life was shaped by her autism diagnosis, finally received in her early forties.
Key Topics Discussed:
Growing Up Undiagnosed: Lucy talks about her childhood and the difficulties of fitting in, her father's probable autism, and how the lack of understanding in the 1970s and 80s affected her sense of self.Self-Discovery and Diagnosis: She shares the journey to her autism diagnosis at age 43, which brought clarity and relief after years of being misdiagnosed with mental health conditions.Finding Community: Lucy recalls the sense of belonging she found in the fan community of the band Cardiacs and how this helped her express her identity.Challenges with Social Interaction: The episode explores Lucy’s struggles with social situations, the importance of planning, and how autism affects her ability to connect with others.Wiltshire Council Advocacy: Lucy discusses her work with Wiltshire Council, where she uses her experiences to improve inclusion for autistic people, providing insight into autistic-friendly practices and digital content initiatives.Advice for Parents and Self-Advocates: Lucy offers tips for parents who suspect their children may be on the autism spectrum and encourages self-advocacy for those seeking diagnosis and support.Benefits of Neurodiversity: The episode touches on how autistic traits like intense focus and unique problem-solving abilities contribute positively to society, with examples from notable figures and the tech industry.Quotes:
"Receiving my diagnosis was a relief... I finally understood why I struggled with things that seemed easy for others.""Autism is a spectrum, and every autistic person is different. We’re all on our unique paths.""Neurodiversity allows us to approach problems from angles that others may not see, making our contributions invaluable."Links and Resources:
Lucy Dawson’s Substack National Autistic Society Wiltshire Council Autism ResourcesIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Undercurrent Stories, leave a review, and share it with friends and family. Your support helps us continue bringing you compelling stories from inspiring individuals like Lucy.
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Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode we hear from Sue Heim, an interpretive volunteer at the San Diego Zoo and dedicated volunteer with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF). Fresh from a month-long trip in Namibia, Sue shares her firsthand experiences in cheetah conservation, discussing the unique traits, challenges, and conservation strategies for cheetahs.
Key Topics Covered:
- Sue's Journey to Conservation: Learn how Sue's passion for cheetahs led her from San Diego to Namibia, working alongside experts at CCF.
- Understanding Cheetah Characteristics: Sue discusses the unique behaviours and physical traits of cheetahs, including their unparalleled speed and distinctive “tear marks.”
- Cheetah Conservation Challenges: Key threats to cheetah survival include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and the illegal pet trade. Sue explains how these factors impact cheetah populations.
- Innovative Conservation Efforts: From livestock-guarding dogs to anti-poaching initiatives, discover how CCF and local communities collaborate to protect cheetahs and educate the public.
- A Day in the Life of a Volunteer: Sue recounts her diverse experiences at CCF, including feeding cheetahs, training livestock-guarding dogs, and helping with the "Dancing Goat Creamery" at the centre.
- Get Involved: Sue shares actionable steps listeners can take to support cheetah conservation from anywhere in the world, including donations, virtual challenges, and zoo volunteering.
Notable Quotes:
"Cheetahs rely on speed rather than brute force—an incredible animal that runs up to 70 miles per hour."
"They are non-confrontational, even in the wild. If you see a cheetah, it’s more likely to hiss and run away than to attack."
"We’re teaching local farmers sustainable ways to protect livestock and reduce conflicts with cheetahs, from specialised fencing to livestock-guarding dogs."
How You Can Help:
1. **Donate to the Cheetah Conservation Fund**: Your contributions help fund critical conservation efforts across Africa.
2. **Spread Awareness**: Educate friends and family about the plight of cheetahs and the ongoing conservation efforts.
4. **Volunteer Locally**: Many zoos and conservation organisations offer opportunities to support big cat conservation.
Resources:
- Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) https://cheetah.org/
- Follow Sue Heim's Journey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sue.heim for insights and photos from her experiences at CCF.
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Manglende episoder?
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In this episode we explore the rich cultural and social landscape of the Edwardian era with historian Alwyn Turner, author of Little Englanders: Britain in the Edwardian Era. From the legacy of Edward VII to the early days of tabloids and the impact of emerging technologies, Alwyn shares insights into how the period shaped modern Britain.
Key Topics:
The Edwardian Age Defined: What years the era covered and how Edward VII’s reign reflected societal change.Public Perceptions of Edward VII: How he was viewed compared to Queen Victoria.The Rise of the Labour Party and Political Shifts: How early welfare reforms laid the groundwork for the modern state.The Influence of Early Tabloids: How The Daily Mail revolutionised news consumption and democracy.Entertainment & Pop Culture: Freak shows, music halls, and the Fat Boy of Peckham's fame.Technological Innovations: The impact of cars, telephones, and aviation on everyday life.Shifting Social Values: The loosening of Victorian morals and recurring cultural cycles.Memorable Moments:
Oscar Wilde’s Lasting Influence: How Wilde’s trial changed male social behaviour.Horatio Bottomley’s Rise and Fall: The charismatic fraudster who inspired Toad of Toad Hall.Marie Lloyd’s Legacy: Celebrating Britain’s greatest female entertainer.About Our Guest:
Alwyn Turner is a senior lecturer in history at the University of Chichester. His research delves into the interplay between culture, politics, and society in 20th-century Britain. His book, Little Englanders, offers a colorful exploration of the Edwardian era.
Where to Find Alwyn’s Work:
Little Englanders: Britain in the Edwardian Erahttp://www.alwynwturner.com/Enjoyed the Episode?
Please subscribe, share with friends, and leave us a review! For more updates, follow us on social media.
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What is a Black Hole? How many are there in the Universe? How are they formed? What size are they and what would the consequences be if we were able to travel to a Black Hole?
To answer these questions and many more join me in conversation with Marcus Chown, an award-winning writer and broadcaster. Formerly a radio astronomer at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, he is a Royal Literary Fund Fellow at Brunel University. His books include The Ascent of Gravity, which was The Sunday Times Science Book of the Year; and he has just brought out his latest book A Crack in Everything: How Black Holes Came in From the Cold and Took Centre Cosmic Stage. As well as writing, Marcus was a regular guest on the BBC4 comedy-science show, It’s Only A Theory, and often appears on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch.
Marcus's links:
https://marcuschown.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crack-Everything-Black-Cosmic-Centre/dp/1804544329
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!
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This episode features Ian Hatton, English guitarist and former member of the hard rock band Bonham.
Our conversation starts with the story about the foundation of the band in 1988 with Jason Bonham, son of the late Led Zeppelin drummer, John Bonham.
We discuss Ian's journey into composing for TV and film scores and we learn what it was like playing alongside Paul Rodgers, Jeff Back, Brian May and many more rock icons.
The episode concludes with a deep dive into Ian's latest project, Old Glenham Brewery. Producing British cask ales for the American market Ian talks about the inspiration for producing UK style beer as he reminisces about living in the UK and his eventual move to the USA.
Ian's links:https://www.ianhatton.com/
https://www.oldglenhambrewery.com/
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!
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Live from the Edinburgh Fringe I talk to Sam Bates, the award-winning playwright and director of the Working Progress Collective Theatre. In between performances of his latest play, 'Sessions', we delve deep into Sam's personal journey. From his challenging upbringing, troubled youth and to finding his voice in the world of theatre, the episode offers a raw and honest look at a young man's journey.
In the episode you will hear about;
Edinburgh Fringe Experience: Sam shares what it’s like to perform at one of the world's most prestigious arts festivals without the big marketing budgets of other productions, relying on word of mouth and personal interactions to build momentum.
Sam’s Personal Journey: Growing up in a working-class background, Sam faced numerous challenges, including family struggles, legal troubles, and mental health issues. He opens up about his path from being lost and isolated to finding purpose through theatre and storytelling.
The Story Behind 'Sessions:' Sam talks about his play, 'Sessions', which follows the journey of a 17-year-old facing the consequences of violent crime and his transformative relationship with an unconventional youth officer. The play draws heavily from Sam’s personal experiences and those of his peers.
The Importance of Authentic Masculinity: Sam discusses his work with youth charities and the need to redefine masculinity in a healthier, more supportive way, emphasising vulnerability and emotional openness.
Creating the Working Progress Collective: Sam reflects on the challenges and triumphs of setting up his theatre company and the importance of building trust and collaboration within his team.
Audience Reactions: From social workers to former youth offenders, audience members connect deeply with the themes of 'Sessions'. Sam emphasises the importance of post-show discussions, where the audience can engage directly with the cast and creators.
Future Plans: Looking ahead, Sam talks about plans for a UK tour, scratch nights, and new writing projects that explore working-class stories and the complexities of human nature.
Memorable Quotes:
“We’re never 100% healed, and we’re never 100% good. Nine times out of ten, it’s just good people sometimes doing bad things.”
“I want people to walk away from the play with a new perspective, to question their first impressions of people, especially those who seem lost or troubled.”
Connect with Sam Bates and Working Progress Collective Theatre:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workingprogresscollective/
- Twitter: https://x.com/WPCtheatre
- Website: https://www.workingprogresscollective.co.uk/
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!
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In this episode we dive into the transformative journey of Steve Hoffman, author of 'A Season for That'. Have you ever dreamed of leaving everything behind and starting fresh in a new country? Steve did just that when he and his family left their life in Minnesota to embrace the rural charm of a small village in southern France.
Steve shares the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, the unexpected lessons learned, and the profound impact it had on his family. We explore how living in France changed Steve's perspective on life, food, and the importance of slowing down. From navigating new customs to discovering the power of local food and wine, this episode is full of insights and inspiration for anyone looking to reinvent their lives or simply find more meaning in everyday moments.
In this episode we talk about:
- How moving to a new country can transform your outlook on life.
- The importance of embracing challenges and stepping out of your comfort zone.
- Insights into the French way of life: from the deep appreciation of food and wine to the art of slowing down.
- How to cultivate joy and fulfillment through cultural immersion.
- Practical tips for those considering a similar life-changing adventure.
About Our Guest:
Steve Hoffman is a Minnesota tax preparer and food writer as well as a French speaker and shameless Francophile. His writing has won multiple awards including the James Beard M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writer Award. He has been published in Food and Wine, The Washington Post and many other publications.
His first book, 'A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France was published in July 2024.
Resources Mentioned:
Steve's website https://www.sjrhoffman.com/ Explore more about Steve’s journey, his writing, and his book.
'A Season for That' – Available at all major bookstores and online. Also available in audiobook format, narrated by Steve himself.
Follow Steve Hoffman:
- Instagram
- Facebook
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!
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In this revealing conversation with Alicia Kearns, Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford and currently Shadow Minister for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Alicia shares insights from her journey into politics, discusses her work as an MP and provides an in-depth analysis of several pressing national and international issues.
Alicia discusses the ongoing learning process within the Conservative Party following their recent electoral defeat and the importance of returning to core values like ethics and competence.
Coming from a politically active, left-wing family, she explains her journey from being deeply influenced by Labour ideals to becoming a Conservative MP. She reflects on her background in the civil service, working in crisis communication, counter-terrorism, and national security before transitioning to politics.
Alicia provides a candid account of the demanding and often misunderstood role of an MP, including her weekly routine, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, and the impact of dealing with abuse and threats.
We hear about local concerns such as the A1 road safety improvements and the controversial Mallard Pass solar farm proposal. She explains her stance on prioritising food security over using prime agricultural land for solar farms and the ethical implications involving companies accused of using forced labour.
We learn about her perspective on current national issues including immigration, waterways and sewage and healthcare system reforms particularly in regard to her efforts to improve local healthcare services.
With her background as Chair of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee up until the election, we explore the critical role of parliamentary scrutiny in shaping foreign policy in regard to China, war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war.
We wind up with Alicia emphasising the need for public engagement and critical thinking, especially regarding national security, foreign policy, and complex international conflicts. She advocates for more open debate and education on these issues at all levels.
Alicia Kearns provides an insightful look into her life as an MP, the challenges facing the Conservative Party, and the complex issues shaping the future of the UK and its global relationships. Her dedication to her constituents, commitment to ethical governance, and passion for robust foreign policy shine throughout the episode.
Links:
https://www.aliciakearns.com/about-alicia-kearns
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
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In this insightful episode I sit down with with Toby Mildon, an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Architect and founder of Mildon, a consultancy specialising in creating inclusive workplaces. Toby shares his journey from IT consulting and healthcare technology to becoming a full-time EDI professional at the BBC and eventually founding his own consultancy. Drawing from personal experience and professional expertise, Toby discusses the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the workplace and beyond.
Key Topics Discussed:
1. Toby's Journey into EDI: Toby shares how his career began in technology before transitioning into diversity and inclusion roles at the BBC. He discusses how his own experiences as a person with a disability shaped his understanding of inclusion.
2. Understanding Diversity and Inclusion: Toby explains the fundamental differences between diversity and inclusion, emphasising that everyone is diverse and that true inclusion is about creating a sense of belonging in the workplace.
3. Challenges and Misconceptions in EDI: Toby dispels common myths about diversity and inclusion, such as the idea that diversity only pertains to specific groups or characteristics. He also discusses the pitfalls of using diversity targets and the potential for these to drive the wrong behaviors.
4. Strategies for Implementing EDI in Organizations: Toby outlines his approach to helping companies develop effective EDI strategies, using data and insights to create tailored action plans. He provides examples of how he has worked with clients like the NHS, Centrica, and Sony to foster inclusive environments.
5. The Role of Unconscious Bias: Toby talks about the importance of understanding and addressing unconscious biases in both professional and personal contexts, sharing his own surprising experiences with bias.
6. Practical Steps for Building Inclusivity: Toby introduces his latest book, Building Inclusivity, which provides practical guidance on implementing EDI strategies. He also shares tips for HR managers and individuals looking to build a career in EDI.
7. Impact of EDI on Business Growth: Toby discusses the tangible benefits of implementing EDI strategies, including increased employee engagement, reduced turnover, and improved profitability, supported by research from McKinsey and others.
Additional Resources:
- Visit Toby Mildon's website at https://www.mildon.co.uk/ for more information on his work, books, and resources.
- Connect with Toby on LinkedIn for updates and insights on EDI.
- Check out Toby's podcast, Inclusive Growth Show, where he interviews various experts and business leaders about diversity and inclusion topics.
- https://dileaders.com/ A free online community for all interested parties keen to accelerate EDI in workplaces
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
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How many times have you forgotten where your car keys are. Have you ever mislaid your phone? What about the person you met yesterday? Can you still remember their name? On the other hand you might well remember some childhood memories such as specific toys you had or the year in which a specific pop song was in the charts.
Here to talk about memory, answer some of those questions and give some advice on how we can improve our memory I’m joined by Megan Sumeracki. Megan is Associate Professor of psychology at Rhode Island College. She’s a cognitive psychologist in learning and memory and author of the book, The Psychology of Memory.Throughout the conversation Megan delves into the intricacies of memory, offering insights into why we remember some things vividly while forgetting others. We learn about the differences between short-term and long-term memory, the concept of implicit memory, and how attention plays a crucial role in what we retain. We are given practical tips on how to improve memory, such as using retrieval practice and spacing techniques.
Listeners will also learn about the impact of sensory experiences on memory, the challenges of remembering names, and the importance of applying evidence-based strategies in education. Whether you're curious about the psychology behind memory or looking for ways to boost your own, this episode offers valuable takeaways.
Key Topics Covered:
- The basics of memory: short-term vs. long-term memory
- Implicit memory and its influence on behavior
- The role of attention in memory retention
- Techniques for improving memory, including retrieval practice and spacing
- The effect of sensory experiences on episodic memory
- Educational strategies for enhancing learning and memory
Guest Bio:
Dr. Megan Sumeracki is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Rhode Island College. Her research focuses on learning and memory, with an emphasis on applying cognitive psychology principles in educational settings. She is the author of *The Psychology of Memory* and is passionate about helping others understand how memory works to improve learning outcomes.
Links & Resources:
https://www.learningscientists.org/megan-sumeracki
https://x.com/DrSumeracki
Purchase 'The Psychology of Memory'
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
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In this episode we delve into the creative mind of Steve Carroll, an art teacher and science fiction author. Join us as we explore Steve's unique journey from the visual arts to writing compelling sci-fi narratives, including his latest work, 'Diaspora.' Steve shares his insights into the world of science fiction, discussing how his background in teaching and the arts has influenced his writing style.
We explore the intricate balance between hard science and imaginative storytelling in his work, the themes that inspire him, and the process of creating expansive, futuristic worlds. Whether you're a sci-fi enthusiast or simply curious about the creative process behind the genre, this episode offers a deep dive into the mind of an author who bridges the gap between contemporary life and science fiction.
**Key Topics Covered:**
- Steve's lifelong creativity both in art and writing.
- The inspiration and creative process behind his book *Diaspora*.
- The role of hard science in his storytelling.
- How his background in the visual arts shapes his approach to writing.
- The future of science fiction and its impact on our understanding of the world.
**Guest Bio:**
Steve Carroll is a science fiction author and art teacher known for his thoughtful and scientifically-grounded approach to storytelling. His work often explores the intersection of technology, society, and the human condition. Steve’s latest novel, *Diaspora*, is a gripping tale set in a richly imagined future, drawing on his deep understanding of science and human nature.
**Links & Resources:**
https://stevecarrollarttutor.uk/
Purchase 'Diaspora' https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1578918
https://www.instagram.com/stevepaintprint/
**Call to Action:**
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who love science fiction. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
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In this fascinating episode, we dive into 'The Untold Story of Refrigeration' with Nicola Twilley, acclaimed author of the book Frostbite and co-host of the podcast 'Gastropod'. Join us as we explore the hidden history and profound impact of refrigeration on our lives, from ancient ice harvesting to the sophisticated cold chain logistics that keep our global food supply fresh.
Nicola takes us on a journey through time, revealing how refrigeration has revolutionised everything from food preservation to medicine, and even the very way we live. You'll learn about the unexpected innovations that led to the modern refrigerator, the environmental challenges of keeping things cool, and the surprising ways refrigeration continues to shape our world today.
Whether you’re a history buff, a science enthusiast, or just curious about the everyday technology we often take for granted, this episode will change the way you think about cold storage forever.
Key Topics Discussed:
- The origins of refrigeration: How ancient civilisations kept things cool
- The invention of the refrigerator: Key milestones and inventors
- The cold chain: How refrigeration transformed global food distribution
- The environmental impact of refrigeration and what’s being done to address it
- Future innovations in refrigeration technology
- Nicola Twilley’s personal journey into researching and writing about refrigeration
Episode Highlights:
- *[00:03:15]* – The origins of refrigeration and its early adopters
- *[00:15:42]* – How the modern refrigerator came to be
- *[00:25:30]* – The cold chain: An unsung hero of global food systems
- *[00:37:10]* – The environmental challenges of refrigeration today
- *[00:45:20]* – Future trends in refrigeration technology
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to share this episode with friends!
Links and Resources
https://www.nicolatwilley.com/bio/
Gastropod Podcast
https://x.com/nicolatwilley
https://www.instagram.com/nicolatwilley/
Frostbite: How Refrigeration Changed Our Food, Our Planet and Ourselves
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In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Jeanne Blasberg, author of bestselling & award-winning novels EDEN and THE NINE and former Wall Street professional who found her true calling in the worlds of literature and regenerative farming. Jeanne shares her remarkable transition from the fast-paced life of finance to the serene and fulfilling pursuit of writing novels and cultivating the land in Wisconsin. Her story is one of reinvention and passion, as she discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing these two seemingly different yet deeply connected worlds.
Jeanne's latest work, "Daughter of a Promise," reflects her keen understanding of human relationships and the environment, drawing from her rich experiences and the profound lessons she's learned along the way. During the interview, she opens up about her writing process, the inspiration behind her stories, and how the tranquility of the farm fuels her creativity. Jeanne’s commitment to regenerative farming also shines through, highlighting her dedication to sustainable living and the parallels she draws between nurturing the soil and developing complex, meaningful narratives.
This episode is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the transformative impact it can have on our lives. Jeanne's journey is a compelling reminder that it's never too late to change paths and pursue what truly fulfills us.
A truly inspirational conversation!
Jeanne's links;
https://jeanneblasberg.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jeanneblasbergauthor/
https://x.com/JeanneBlasberg
Undercurrent Stories links:
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Join us as we delve into the explosive world of volcanoes with one of the world's leading volcanologists, Prof. Tamsin Mather. As a professor of earth sciences at the University of Oxford and an atmospheric chemist, Tamsin's work has significantly advanced our understanding of volcanic activity. She shares fascinating insights into what volcanoes are, how they form, and the complex processes that lead to their eruptions. Tamsin also discusses her newly published book, *ADVENTURES IN VOLCANOLAND*, which explores what volcanoes reveal about our world and ourselves.
In our conversation, Tamsin recounts her unexpected journey into the field of volcanology, beginning with a childhood visit to Mount Vesuvius. She explains the intricate science behind volcanic eruptions, describing the role of magma, tectonic plates, and the various types of volcanic activity found across the globe. From the fiery eruptions of Mount Etna to the unique carbonate volcanoes of Tanzania, Tamsin provides a captivating look at the diverse phenomena that define volcanic landscapes. Her passion for combining fieldwork with scientific research shines through as she shares stories from her expeditions and the cutting-edge techniques used to study these powerful natural events.
Learn the critical role volcanoes play in shaping our planet and the ongoing research aimed at predicting eruptions and mitigating their impacts. Tamsin's expertise offers a unique perspective on the global effects of volcanic activity, including their influence on the environment and potential for providing essential resources. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of our world, this episode promises to be an enlightening and engaging exploration of the dynamic forces beneath our feet.
About Prof. Tamsin Mather:
Tamsin Mather is a British volcanologist. She is Professor of Earth Sciences at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Oxford and a Fellow of University College, Oxford. Tamsin was born and raised in Bristol, UK and has masters degrees in Chemistry and the History and Philosophy of Science from St John's College, University of Cambridge. She completed her PhD in 2004 on the ‘Near-source chemistry of tropospheric volcanic plumes’ in the Department of Earth Sciences also at the University of Cambridge. Before joining Oxford Tamsin was a NERC fellow at the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology and a Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin research fellow. She has won numerous awards for her scientific work including the Royal Society Rosalind Franklin Award and election to the Academia Europaea and as a Geochemistry Fellow. She regularly participates in events promoting the public understanding of science and TV, radio and podcasts, including the Infinite Monkey Cage on BBC Radio 4. Her debut non-fiction book ADVENTURES IN VOLCANOLAND is published by Abacus (UK) and Hanover Square Press (US) in 2024.
Prof. Tamsin Mather's links;
https://www.earth.ox.ac.uk/people/mather/
https://x.com/tamsinmather
Link to ADVENTURES IN VOLCANOLAND
Undercurrent Stories links:
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Do you use a fitness tracker? Do you ever read or leave reviews on Trip Advisor or Amazon? Have you read the weather forecast for today? And what about polls for elections? All these are just a few examples of the use of statistics. It seems that statistics, data and algorithms are increasingly used to inform, educate and persuade us.
Then on another level how can we make sense of the odds of something. Could be the odds of winning the jackpot on a lottery or even the chance of being struck by lightning? We may regard ourselves as lucky or unlucky. So the big question is on one hand we have the science and all the data to give us considered answers and on the other our society’s belief and superstition with such things as bad luck happens in 3s, touching a piece of wood, 4 leaf clovers and black cats. What is the answer?
Well here to help us make sense of it all I am delighted to be joined by Professor Jeffrey Rosenthal. Jeffrey is Professor of Statistics at the University of Toronto and author of several books with his most recent book being Knock on Wood: Luck, Chance and the Meaning of Everything. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Knock-Wood-Chance-Meaning-Everything/dp/1443453072
Professor Jeffrey's links;
http://probability.ca/jeff/
https://x.com/ProbabilityProf
Undercurrent Stories links:
https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories
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When I was at school in the 1970s, I remember a book lying around in the sixth form common room. It had a curious cover with a flower and a spanner merged together on a blue background. The book, entitled Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig, had become a popular classic since its publication in 1974, was an instant bestseller, and has since become an American epic.
Now, I'm not sure if any of us at school actually read the book in full, as we weren't sure what to make of it. Was it about motorcycle maintenance? Was it about Zen and Eastern mysticism and philosophy? Or was it just the story of a basic American road trip? Well, here to discuss the book and to celebrate it's 50 year anniversary , I'm delighted to welcome Mark Richardson to the show.
Mark is a journalist and author and former automotive editor of the Toronto Star. Among his books is a book entitled Zen and Now, which retraces Robert Pirsig's original road trip. Mark's book has been critically acclaimed as a good primer for would be readers of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.
Mark's links;
https://markrichardson.ca/
Mark's Book: Zen and Now. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Zen-Now-Motorcycle-Maintenance-Departures/dp/0307390691
Undercurrent Stories links:
https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.
www.undercurrentstories.com
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Did you know that since 2001, eighty four percent of the world's skyscrapers have been built?
Do you know why the Empire State Building was built with a mooring mast?
Why are skyscrapers getting taller and thinner?
Here to answer those questions and many more I'm joined by Jason Barr, a professor of economics at Rutgers University, who shares his expertise on the economics and evolution in the fascinating world of tall buildings. We discuss the history of skyscrapers, the driving forces behind their construction, and the future trends in the industry. Topics covered include the definition of skyscrapers, the challenges of building tall structures, the impact of technology on skyscraper construction, and the safety measures implemented in these buildings.
We also touch on the growth areas for tall buildings around the world, the importance of green spaces in urban development, and the future outlook for skyscrapers. This episode provides a unique and valuable insight into the world of skyscrapers and the factors shaping their development.
Jason's links:
https://www.citiesintheskybook.com/
Undercurrent Stories links:
https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.
www.undercurrentstories.com
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Every day (every single day) for 12 years, Mary Jo Hoffman has made a photograph of found nature – no subject too small or too ordinary. For Mary Jo, a former aeronautical engineer, this daily ritual cracked open profound revelations about the connectedness of all things, the importance of place, and her own life.
In this uplifting and inspirational conversation Mary Jo tells her fascinating life story and how anyone can take up a daily creative practice and experience something quite extraordinary!
Mary Jo's links:
https://stillblog.net/
https://www.instagram.com/maryjohoffman/
Undercurrent Stories links:
https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.
www.undercurrentstories.com
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Do you currently meditate? Is it something that you are curious about? Well for me as a child of the 1960s and 1970s my original incorrect perception of meditation was a mixture of Eastern religions, psychedelic music, joss sticks, sitting cross legged, people going to India and ‘finding themselves,’ clearly a lot of misconceptions however, more recently the subject of meditation has become more talked about and mainstream.
The history of meditationDifferent types MindfulnessThe benefits of meditationMeditation for beginners
I was keen to invite a guest on the show who could explain about the practice of meditation and I am delighted to be joined by Claire Billings. Claire is a well being-centred leadership coach and consultant with an emphasis on helping women develop their skills and attributes into their first time leadership roles.
In the episode we discuss;Claire also gives a live 2 minute mini meditation which you are invited to join in!
Claire's links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-billings-2217846/
https://www.instagram.com/maketheleap222/
https://www.instagram.com/clairebillings7/
Undercurrent Stories links:
https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.
www.undercurrentstories.com
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In this episode I'm delighted to welcome the Reverend Ainsley Swift , Vicar of St Michael’s Church, Bray, England, to the show.
Growing up in Penny Lane Liverpool, (Made famous by The Beatles!), Ainsley started his work as teacher and took a keen interest in community development work working in and around the docklands area of Liverpool. More recently Ainsley was nominated an honorary Canon for distinguished service to the Church of England.Our conversation includes;
What life was like for Ainsley growing up in 1960s Liverpool and accompanying his sister to George Harrisons houseThe history and meaning of 'The Vicar of Bray' satirical descriptionHis 'Calling' to the ChurchDiffering religions and their placeThe dynamic of Prayer and silent contemplationAdvice for those contemplating a career in the ChurchI hope you enjoy this episode. It covers many more topics than those above and I think it will be of interest to both members of the Church and those curious to discover more.
Links:
https://www.achurchnearyou.com/
Undercurrent Stories links:
https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.
www.undercurrentstories.com
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