Undercurrent Stories

In this episode, we’re going back in time back to the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century taking a captivating journey into the grandeur, elegance, and daily realities of life in British country houses. Joining us is Adrian Tinniswood — Adrian is a professorial research fellow in history at the University of Buckingham, adjunct professor of history at Maynooth University, and...

Do you ever have to deliver a presentation at work? Navigate  difficult conversations? Or simply just express yourself with clarity and confidence?  If you would like to improve your  communication skills this episode is just for you. Our guest today is Michael Chad Hoeppner,  a renowned communication coach, speaker, and the founder of GK Training and Communications. Michael has coached prominent...

Public Footpaths, or to use the correct term, 'Public Rights of Way' are a unique national treasure in England and Wales. In fact there are over 149,000 miles of them! Interestingly there are a further estimated 49,000 miles of 'lost' Public Rights of Way which could be lost forever if they have not been recorded. Joining me to discuss footpaths and how you can help get involve...

As the 21st century rolls on with a competitive workplace,  an ever changing working environment and the increasing use of AI you might well be asking how you stand out and how you can make yourself irreplaceable. One man that has been asking these questions over the past 15 years while running one of the world’s top executive search firms is my guest William Vanderbloemen. William is an entrepren...

Today we’re diving into a topic that’s often overlooked but always relevant, etiquette and manners.  Most of us learn these as we grow up but given all the cultural and technological changes that modern society has experienced it’s not always easy to know the best practises to adopt.  Here to help navigate these changes I’m joined by Thomas Farley. Based in New York,  Thomas is known as 'Mr M...

James Cooper, a Christmasologist, (Yes there is such a word!), reveals the history of Christmas traditions in the UK over the last 1500 years. Speaking to Bob in this episode first aired in 2022, 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/ Connect with Undercu...

 In this inspiring episode, Bob sits down with Chris Porcas, a timber merchant by day and a poet by night, who shares his fascinating journey into the world of poetry. Chris reveals how a chance encounter at a local poetry club ignited his passion for writing, eventually leading to the publication of his first book, The Road to Poetry . Chris discusses his creative process, how he balances his car...

In this episode we’re travelling millions of years into the past to uncover the secrets of Earth’s ancient history. My guest is Armin Schmitt a renowned palaeontologist based at Cambridge University and  author of the book, ‘The Lost World of the Dinosaurs.’ We discuss the fascinating world of dinosaurs, their evolution, and their lasting impact on our understanding of life on Earth. Armin  explai...

In this episode we meet broadcasting legend Nick Bailey, who shares his remarkable journey from pirate radio with Radio Caroline to becoming the first voice on Classic FM. Nick shares his adventures and travels around the world living and working in countries such as Australia, Germany and Hong Kong and we hear stories  about some amazing characters on his journey. We get an insight into world eve...

If you haven't yet witnessed the incredible spectacle that is the Severn Bore, make a date to do so, it's well worth it. One of Britain's few natural phenomena, the Severn Bore is a large surge wave that can be seen in the estuary of the River Severn, where the tidal range is the 2nd highest in the world, being as much as 50 feet (approx. 15.4m). Graded from 1* to 5* the power of th...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Alison Fragale—behavioural scientist, professor, and author of the groundbreaking book, Likeable Badass . Alison shares her expertise on what it takes to build respect, wield influence, and navigate the challenges of modern workplaces with confidence and authenticity.  We discuss the fascinating psychology behind status, unpack the balance between warmth and co...

 Inside the Exclusive World of Executive Jet Travel: Captain Nick Glover In this episode of Undercurrent Stories , host Bob Wells sits down with Nick Glover, a former executive jet captain with an impressive career in business aviation and instructor at Aerobility, a unique charity offering people with disabilities the opportunity to fly. Together, they explore the fascinating life of an executive...

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 w...

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...

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 er...

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 Li...

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...

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 youn...

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 c...

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 wit...

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 profes...

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 ad...

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 influence...

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....

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 cul...