Swinging the Lamp

This episode kicks off 2026 by intertwining personal anecdotes with broader social commentaries. Rory reflects on a surprising wake-up call from an innocuous New Year's Day activity, prompting a healthier lifestyle. Thor and Rory debate the potential ramifications of replacing ferries with bridges or tunnels on Scottish islands, arguing for the preservation of traditional ways and jobs. The discus...

In this episode, Thor and Rory discuss plans for celebrating New Year's Eve with a trip to Prague. The conversation humorously delves into the naming confusion of Czechia and classic Cold War references. With a nod to the Scottish celebration of Hogmanay, there's a somber reflection on recent tragic events during a Christmas swim in Cornwall. The episode takes a critical turn with discussion about...

In this engaging podcast episode, Kelly Broad, a seasoned chief stew, provides an insider's look into the luxurious world of superyachts. Starting her career in 2011, Kelly shares her journey from a green stewardess to leading a team, maintaining the impeccable standards required onboard, and catering to high-profile guests. She discusses the diversity of duties, ranging from guest service to mana...

The episode dives into the complexities of friendships formed during intense experiences like sailing voyages. Thor and Rory reflect on the shipmate bonds they form, sharing stories about sailors who have touched their lives, including one named Neil, whose tragic story sheds light on the challenges of loneliness. The hosts also ponder the effectiveness of modern digital communication, particularl...

Rory and Thor are joined by Martin Vander Weyer, the business editor of the Spectator and described by Boris Johnson as the most oracular and entertaining financial journalist in London. They reminisce about Scotland’s football success in the 1970s, with stories involving Hampden Park's infamous 'hot leg' experiences. The episode shifts to economic discussions, evaluating the impacts of current ta...

Rory tells Thor about his contribution to the "war on drugs" while Thor has an exciting update on the Shetland Distillery.

In this episode of Swinging the Lamp, Dr. Steven Young shares insights from his book,  A Fool's Wisdom , offering a compelling examination of modern scientific concepts compared to ancient alchemy. With a background in theoretical physics and nuclear physics, Young discusses his unconventional journey from academia to music, challenging mainstream notions about the world. He reveals how the events...

Thor tells Rory about his latest comedy gig and Rory wonders when one should sieze the moment.

Rory is joined by Mark Thompson to discuss blue water cruising

Thor and Rory agree on the importance of hot hash browns at McDonalds and the usefulness of seawater cooling strainers.

Thor and Rory debate the British Class system and assess their own class credentials.

Thor and Rory discuss the wisdom of no more instruction on paper charts in UK Nautical Colleges.

The episode is an engaging mix of humour and insight as Rory and Thor banter about various transportation modes. They see-saw between Thor's public transport woes and the reliability of older cars, drawing a passionate debate about sustainable travel. Rory recounts an amusing experience with new lease cars and their intrusive alarms, while Thor reflects on the larger picture of environmental impli...

Thor reveals the result of his poll on who should win the Nobel Peace prize while Rory has a few anecdotes from the stormy weekend.

Thor is in recovery mode after his eye operation as he catches up with Rory to discuss the merits of Infra Red lookout cameras and bow fenders

Thor finds that NHS queues can be very speedy when you need something serious done and Rory outlines a 2026 sailing itinerary.

Thor and Rory catch up after a big week in the culture wars and discuss Rory's travails with a flooded heads and how he his gone mainstream.

Thor is buzzing after his impromptu call to perform at a stand-up gig but Rory questions how the word 'connection' has crept into modern parlance.

Thor and Rory discuss the wisdom of hereditary entitlement when it comes to the future of Scottish Islands and they conclude that lords resemble barnacles on a boat.

Thor and Rory exchange tales of woe on the boating front and Rory finds some of the nursery material not to his taste.

Rory drops in to Bill Williamson's pottery studio in Argyll to hear about his recent arrest and weekend in captivity after his silent vigil for Palestinian children fell foul of the 2000 Terrorism Act.

Thor gives Rory some "Thorapy". Rory is out at sea as he leaves the harbour at Eyemouth and heads for the Forth - but things are all a bit fraught.

Mark Thompson joins Thor and Rory to discuss how to deal with dodgy engines and the delights of taking your boat to the Mediterranean.

Thor and Rory discuss the dramatic Greenpeace protest off the Forth road bridge and Thor tells Rory about his plans for a weekend of Sailing out of Tarbert on the West Coast.

Thor reports on his sea experience with the RYA and his discovery of the best takeaway in Scotland while Rory recounts an unwelcome encounter with a dog owner on the beach.