Undercurrent Stories

Ever thought about starting your own podcast? This is an excerpt from the April edition of the U3A Podcast when I was interviewed by Lee Wellbrook. In the conversation we discuss the resources available and basic technological requirements for starting your own show. There is a lot of information available both online and in book form to help you get started and the podcast community itself is very helpful. So if you are thinking about starting a show or are just curious I hope you enjoy this episode. Links: https://www.u3a.org.uk/ U3A is UK wide collection of a thousand plus charities that provide the opportunity for those no longer in work to come together and learn for fun. Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

Delighted to welcome back and continue my conversation with Steve Snow a former senior manager for British Airways and who now runs his own training and coaching company. We hear about Steve's first management role, his work overseas for the airline, his move to Scotland and how he faced and overcame challenges in the face of redundancies and a terrorist attack. However, this inspirational conversation is much more than a biography. Steve shares his thoughts and insights on what to expect to face as a successful leader, not just in the aviation industry but in all businesses and in all walks of life where there are people. There really is something for everybody to take away from this I believe. I hope you enjoy the show. Steve's Links; Training and Coaching Ltd https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-snow-aa212812/ Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

You have probably been to various functions and nights out where the music was provided by a solo artist. If they performed well you may have considered them to be as good or if not better than a well known artist. You might ask why they haven’t had their lucky break and reached the dizzy heights of stardom? To answer that question I am joined by a man who in his own words has spent ‘30 years on the bottom rung of the showbiz ladder.’ His name is Dave Dawson and today he is a full time care home musician, author and has just brought out his latest book entitled ‘Pop Idle: 30 years on the Road as a Professional Singer. Dave has banked a wealth of experience on the live music circuit and he reveals how along the way, he’s had brushes with fame and fandom, strippers, stalkers, crooks, inebriated punters, prima donnas and various other colourful characters! The real moving part of this interview however, is how Dave has found a truly wonderful vocation playing his music to the residents of care homes. His wide repertoire of songs, stagecraft and music skills are bringing joy and pleasure to residents and he's loving it too! Dave's links: https://www.facebook.com/davedawsonentertainer/ https://twitter.com/DerekPhilpott https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pop-Idle-years-professional-singer/dp/B0CYT4S142 Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Robert J. Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

Do you want to achieve improved mental and emotional well-being through natural remedies? Discover the solution to boost your mental health naturally and find your path to emotional wellness. My special guest is Brigitte Mars, a herbalist and Naropa University professor who has dedicated her life to exploring natural remedies for mental and emotional well-being. With a passion for holistic healing, Brigitte's extensive knowledge and experience in herbal medicine have led her to author 18 books, including her latest, "Natural Remedies for Mental and Emotional Health." Her unique approach to self-care therapies emphasises the connection between mind, body, and soul, offering practical and accessible insights that draw from centuries of traditional wisdom. Brigitte's down-to-earth approach and genuine commitment to helping others make her a trusted and relatable authority in the world of herbal medicine and holistic health. 'Keep learning your whole life and have fun with it. And what's really so rewarding is our planet really needs our help.'- Brigitte Mars In this episode, you will be able to: · Discover natural remedies for mental health to improve your well-being. · Uncover the benefits of herbal medicine for mental and emotional wellness. · Learn how to grow medicinal herbs at home for your mental health toolkit. · Explore the impact of diet on emotional well-being and how it can enhance mental health. · Delve into the historical use of plants in medicine and its relevance to mental health today. Listeners are encouraged to explore growing medicinal herbs as a sustainable and accessible way to promote health and well-being. Brigitte Mars advocates for individuals to take responsibility for their health by learning about local plants and herbal medicine. The conversation inspires listeners to consider growing their own herbs, even in limited spaces, to incorporate natural remedies into their lifestyles for improved mental health. The resources mentioned in this episode are: · Brigitte Mars' website: Visit Brigitte Mars' website to explore her courses, books, and herbal wisdom. The website offers a range of resources for learning about herbal medicine and natural remedies. (brigittemars.com) · Herbal Kitchen Wizardry Course: Check out Brigitte Mars' course on herbal kitchen wizardry, a valuable resource for learning about the practical applications of herbs in cooking and wellness. This course provides hands-on knowledge for incorporating herbs into everyday life. · Phone App: Download the iPlant with Brigitte Mars app, designed to provide information about various herbs, their uses, and potential precautions. This app is a valuable tool for learning about different herbs and their applications. · Sacred Science Course: Explore Brigitte Mars' course Kitchen Wisdom through Sacred Science, offering insights into the medicinal and nutritional benefits of herbs. This course provides in-depth knowledge about using herbs for health and wellness. Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

Discover how the people of Nuneaton are using the power of creativity to revitalise their community, improve their well being and embrace the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. GRIT is an artist led programme of creativity culminating in 'Art On The Streets' in August 2024 in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, England. Grit are Alisha Miller, Nathan Parker and Simon Winterman. In this episode, you will be able to: · Understand the transformative power of street art in community regeneration · Discover the unique impact of visual art on mental health and well-being · Explore how engaging with art programs can revitalise and strengthen communities. · Learn valuable tips for emerging artists embarking on their creative journey · Uncover the intriguing world of transit art and its role in urban expression · Hear how creativity could be an essential ingredient to new forms of work where 'jobs for life' are replaced by new work practises My special guests are Alisha Miller and Nathan Parker. Alisha is an award winning Nuneaton artist famous for her transit art, paint and steel for public places and painting on canvas and paper as well as digital and vinyl print at large scale. Nathan, a passionate graffiti artist, found his calling at a young age and has since become a prominent figure in the street art scene. Drawing inspiration from the New York hip hop culture, Nathan's work reflects the fusion of urban art and self-expression. Links: GRIT https://grit-art-central.co.uk/ Alisha Miller https://www.alishamiller.co.uk/ Nathan Parker https://www.instagram.com/n_4_t_4/ Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' by Bob Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

You've dropped the car off at the airport car park, been processed through security, boarded the plane and you can now relax and look forward to your flight. You observe the cabin crew helping passengers , closing the overhead compartments and preparing for the pre-flight safety demonstration. Have you ever wondered what it must be like working for an airline? Here to answer that question I'm joined by Steve Snow. Steve has spent his career in the airline industry with British Airways right through from trainee to senior management. You'll hear how chance conversations and serendipity led to Steve’s first roles, you will understand what it takes to make cabin crew and through some of Steve’s many stories, sometimes very humorous, you will get a unique behind the scenes look at how things work within a major international airline. Steve's Links; Training and Coaching Ltd https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-snow-aa212812/ Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' by Bob Wells Thanks to ; Song: Flight Cabin Chime Link: • Flight Cabin Chime | Notification Rin... Channel: Rubricks Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

The inspiring story of how two music loving brothers from the English medieval market town of East Grinstead, defied music industry sceptics and created a worldwide smash hit! Cast your mind back to 1991, (If you were around!) Do you remember the collapse of the Soviet Union? The start of the first Gulf War? What about the hit film Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and the accompanying hit record, 'Everything I do I do for You' by Bryan Adams? It stayed at no. 1 in the UK charts for 4 months! Nestling right behind the chart topper at no 2 for 6 weeks in the UK chart was the hit, 'I'm too Sexy' by the band Right Said Fred. It went on to be a major hit worldwide and charted at no. 1 all over the world. Fast forward to 2024 and I'm delighted to be joined by Richard and Fred Fairbrass the duo that is Right Said Fred. In this insightful and gently humorous conversation you will learn; This conversation is a look at the determination and self-belief that fuel a musician's journey to the top however, above all the interview reveals the strong bond between two brothers bound by their love of music and how this special relationship gave them their grit and relentless spirit needed to break through. Links: https://rightsaidfred.com/ https://twitter.com/TheFreds https://www.instagram.com/rightsaidfredofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/RIGHTSAIDFREDUK https://www.tiktok.com/@official_rightsaidfred Book: 'Still Too Sexy' https://www.amazon.co.uk/Still-Too-Sexy-Surviving-Right/dp/1913172503 Undercurrent Stories links: https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' by Bob Wells Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

Most of us suffer at some point from a body condition that causes an issue. You may have to wear glasses or contacts, you may have a bad back or you may have had work done on your teeth to straighten them. Have you ever wondered why? Here to answer those questions I am joined by Alex Bezzerides. Alex is a professor of biology at Lewis-Clark State College in Idaho and he recently brought out his first book called, (Evolution Gone Wrong The Curious Reasons Why Our Bodies Work or Don’t). Expect to learn the surprising ways in which our bodies have evolved. Links: http://alexbezzerides.com/ https://twitter.com/alexbezzerides Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Evolution-Gone-Wrong-Curious-Reasons/dp/1335690050 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

How much do you know about what’s going in Ukraine? Obviously we get daily news bulletins from the mainstream media which give a view on major events but what about the stuff we don't hear about? What everyday life is like for civilians? Why people from other countries volunteer either on a humanitarian basis or as a soldier? What are their backgrounds? How are they received? How do the Ukrainian people see an end to the war? To help answer these questions and many more, I am joined by Matt Gallagher. Matt is a US Army veteran who volunteered and helped civilians at the start of the war in 2022 and then returned again in 2023 as a journalist. His experiences led him to publish his fourth novel, Daybreak which takes place in present day Ukraine and features a disillusioned American volunteering for the war and to reconnect with a woman from his past. I found the novel very powerful as it is set in the present with a war still going on. It certainly helped me understand it from a human level. I hope you enjoy the episode, that it helps further your own understanding and answers some of those unanswered questions. Links: http://mattgallagherwriter.com/about/ https://www.instagram.com/mattgallagher0/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Gallagher_(author) https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Daybreak/Matt-Gallagher/9781501177859 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 favourite curries at home. Expect to learn the secrets behind base gravies, the importance of using the correct equipment and how the correct use of heat with garlic and spices is so important. Let Al teach you in his unique and affable style and manner and you will see how he has become so popular. Then let the results speak for themselves. This is a game changer! Al's links; https://www.youtube.com/@AlsKitchen https://alskitchen.uk/ Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 stress and pressure. They see challenges as opportunities. They persist no matter what. They pick themselves up and go again. They are confident, humble, in control and 100% committed to what they set out to achieve.T hat may sound as if mentally tough people are special, but they’re not. No one is born with mental toughness. Expect to learn how to improve your confidence, increase motivation and discover your winning mindset. Listen to Penny’s story from teenage runaway, homelessness in London and how this developed her resilience. Drawing on these extraordinary experiences Penny now shares her techniques and formula to develop mental toughness giving talks and coaching groups including F1, Coca-Cola, Microsoft and TEDX. Links: https://pennymallory.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennymallory/ https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/ Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 world of David Poxon, a maestro of the brush whose vibrant works are a testament to the unexpected beauty found in the gritty, metallic landscape of industry and agricultural machinery. From his boyhood fascination with the rawness of his industrial surroundings, David now masterfully blends the austere beauty of machinery with the delicate nuance of watercolor. His work, an artful conduit between the severe precision of industry and the fluidity of pigment and water, invites us to explore the power of art to transform and to connect. We delve into the story behind his creations, the solace found in the rhythms of his brush strokes, and the strong ties that art can weave between the artist and the observer. With his journey serving as our canvas, you will hear about the sheer joy of creating something. Something that David encourages us all to experience. The principles that David talks about can be applied to any creative pursuit whether that be art, writing, music, anything in fact! Hope you enjoy the episode. Bio - David Poxon is a highly sought after international water colour artist He is an elected member of the The Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours and a signature member of the National Watercolour society of America. In addition to this David is the organiser of the 2024 International Watercolour Masters show which takes place in Lilleshall Hall in Shropshire, England 15th - 24th May 2024. Links: https://internationalwatercolourmasters.com/ https://davidpoxon.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/davidpoxonwatercolours/ https://www.facebook.com/david.poxon.520 https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/ Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 Stamford's position on the storied route from London to York, where ancient inns like The George have quenched the thirst of travelers for a millennium, and we peek into the future with The Mayors Guides, set to continue the tradition of sharing Stamford's historical riches. The architectural splendour of St George's Square serves as a backdrop for tales both inspiring and sinister; it's not just a setting for period dramas but a stage where the drama of history itself unfolded. Bill shares the gripping stories of Arnold Leese, whose love for camels and fascism painted a complex portrait of Stamford's past, and Edward Edwards, whose naval legacy is forever entwined with the Bounty's mutiny. These narratives are testament to the fact that beneath the town's resplendent facade lie stories of intrigue and the human condition in all its shades. Our journey wouldn't be complete without the chilling tales of Stamford's darker denizens, notably Thomas Bacon, whose life story reads like a Victorian gothic novel. As Bill recounts the accusations of murder and arson that followed Bacon from Stamford to London and beyond, one can't help but shiver at the grim chapters written into the town's history. Yet, the conversation isn't all gloom; we wrap up reveling in the town's architectural triumphs, void of the macabre overtones associated with characters like John George Haigh. With Bill's encyclopedic knowledge and lively banter, your appreciation for Stamford's historical and structural fabric will be irreversibly enriched. Please note error at 17.25. Date should be 1842 not 1642. For more information about Stamford and on Bill Cunningham please see; https://www.thestamfordtownguidedtours.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/408182023445227/ https://www.instagram.com/williamdavidcunningham/?hl=en This episode was recorded a few weeks before the Covid -19 Lockdown. Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 Evolution, and Made Us Who We Are. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Our-Moon-Celestial-Companion-Transformed/dp/1529342783 Rebecca regales us with tales of the Moon's enigmatic origins and its silent yet profound influences on our planet—from the length of our days to the evolution of terrestrial life. Her book paints a stark portrait of the Moon's desolate beauty, and during our talk, she brings that imagery to life, reflecting on how this celestial body is a cornerstone of life as we know it. The dance between Earth and its Moon is a ballet of celestial mechanics and evolutionary impulses, one that Rebecca eloquently elucidates. She shares how the Moon's elliptical orbit and slow retreat from Earth have vast repercussions, from tidal forces that may have nudged vertebrates onto land to the synchronisation challenges between lunar and solar calendars that have fascinated human cultures for millennia. Our conversation wades through the interplay of light and time, considering how this relationship might even sway the rhythms of our own biology, affecting everything from plant behavior to human health. Our lunar odyssey concludes by casting an eye toward the future, questioning the implications of a Moon-less Earth and the current pulse of space exploration. As Rebecca and I discuss, space agencies are reigniting their lunar ambitions with programs like Artemis and international moon landings, paving the way for potential lunar tourism and the utilisation of Moon resources like water and helium-3. Yet, as we gaze ahead, we're mindful of the hurdles—environmental challenges like abrasive moon dust and the untapped mysteries of the Moon's far side. Join us to unravel these lunar enigmas and discover why our connection to the Moon is more than just a tale of tides and time, but a narrative deeply interwoven with the essence of our humanity. Links: https://rebeccaboyle.com/ https://www.instagram.com/by.rebecca.boyle/ https://www.undercurrentstories.com/ https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 sustainable future, offering nutrient-rich alternatives to traditional crops and a solution to ecological challenges. Our conversation reveals the often-overlooked potential of the ocean's flora and why it deserves a prime spot in both our diets and agricultural strategies. As we wade deeper into the world of seaweed, we're not just talking about a plant; we're exploring an entire ecosystem's backbone that teems with life-sustaining properties. Vincent shares with us the exceptional nutritional profile of seaweed, its sustainability as a protein source, and debunks myths about its potential for toxin accumulation. We consider the environmental impact of seaweed farming, from its capacity to recapture nutrients and prevent ocean eutrophication to its role in a circular economy. This episode is an eye-opener for anyone concerned with the delicate balance of our planet's health and the quest for responsible, nutritious food sources. Finally, we celebrate the culinary renaissance of seaweed, savouring its unique umami flavor that's making waves in the gastronomy world. From traditional dishes to avant-garde cuisine, chefs are finding innovative ways to incorporate seaweed into their menus. This episode isn't just about advocating for a sustainable food source; it's about embracing the delicious diversity of our oceans. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just beginning to navigate the seas of sustainable eating, there's a place at the table for you in the seaweed revolution. Join us for an enriching discussion that might just inspire your next meal or even a career in marine agriculture. Links: https://www.safeseaweedcoalition.org/ https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seaweed-Revolution-Shaped-Past-Future/dp/1915643856 https://twitter.com/doumeizel?lang=en-GB https://www.undercurrentstories.com/ https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 of which he masterfully ties into his book, "How to Deal with Damn Near Anything: The Paratrooper's Guide to Life." Through John's captivating anecdotes, we uncover not only the strength forged in the camaraderie of a 'battle buddy' but also how military discipline can shape the way we form relationships and set boundaries in every aspect of life. From the transformative power of learning to speak up to the critical role of feedback in personal growth, John's reflections offer a blueprint for personal development that resonates beyond the military sphere. As we chart a course through the challenges of AI and social media's impact on today's youth, John's insights serve as a beacon, guiding us toward a more resilient and adaptable future. Don't miss this deep dive into the profound lessons that John has to offer; it might just change the way you face your daily battles. John's links; https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmauthor/ https://www.johnmcglothlin.com/ Undercurrent Stories Links; https://www.undercurrentstories.com/ https://open.spotify.com/show/1UVol5gkqWKltoi5PrJ4F9?si=beeaa5b354bd42f8 https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/undercurrent-stories/id1508727524 https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/ Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 magnetic sound. We take you back to the thrill of flipping through vinyl at the record shop, where the anticipation for B-sides was as tangible as the grooves on the LPs. This is more than a chat; it's a journey through the very fibres of our musical souls. Venture behind the studio glass with us as Danielz describes the enigmatic partnership between Marc Bolan and producer Tony Visconti, which sculpted the soundscape of T.Rex's most celebrated hits. The intricate dance of Bolan's raw energy and Visconti's meticulous craft emerges through anecdotes, like the covert tuning of a guitar or the layered genius of "Metal Guru." This episode is a treasure chest of insider tales for fans and musicians alike, brimming with the what-ifs and might-have-beens of rock history. Closing our conversation we explore the trials and triumphs of paying tribute to T.Rex, from battling with record labels to the euphoria of planning a monumental 50-show tour. Danielz shares the essence of bringing T.Rex's hits and cherished B-sides to life on stage, ensuring every note resonates with nostalgia and authenticity. We celebrate the abiding allure of T.Rex's music as it continues to captivate fans across generations, proving that the boogie isn't just a dance—it's a legacy that keeps on grooving. Whether you're a long-time devotee or a newcomer to the cosmic energy of Bolan and T.Rex, this episode is a backstage pass to the undying spirit of glam rock. Danielz links: http://www.trextasy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/trextasymarcbolan/ https://www.facebook.com/t.rextasy Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 rich cultural heritage that had been lying dormant for centuries, awaiting revival by those who honour the legacy of the land. Our conversation then takes us across the sea to Scotland, where we immerse ourselves in the history of the clach cuid fir, or manhood stones. Hear about the emotional weight of lifting the Fianna Stone, and the broader context of standing stones and megalithic structures that dot the British Isles. These are not just stones; they are stories etched in granite, marking rites of passage and connecting us to a time when physical prowess intertwined with spiritual significance. Finally, as we wrap up we explore the captivating search for Ireland's lifting stones, including the Limo Flautist stone, a narrative that beautifully weaves together themes of strength, memory, and the cycle of life. Celebrate with us the moment when David's quest to lift a storied stone reaches a triumphant crescendo, uniting the threads of folklore and reality in a community's embrace. David's insights leave us reflecting on the undercurrents of life, the tales that live beneath the surface, urging us to keep the spirit of these stories alive for generations to come. Don't forget to engage with our community on social media and become a part of preserving these legacies. David's links; https://www.instagram.com/_indiana_stones_/?hl=en https://www.patreon.com/Irishstoneliftingandresearch Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 camaraderie with her trusted Sherpa, Passanguru. In this episode, we gather around the campfire of Serena's memories, from her early days of adventure seeded by her bold parents to the pivotal moments that redirected her path from a law career to the unpredictable embrace of the mountains. Whether it was defying the sceptic's gaze as the only woman in her expedition team or making the agonising decision to turn back mere meters from Everest's peak, Serena's journey is a masterclass in resilience. Her stories are not just about climbing; they're about reaching into ourselves to find that unyielding adventurer spirit. Serena's experiences serve as a powerful metaphor for life's journey, painting a vivid tableau of the thrills and spills that come with chasing one's passions. Her voice guides us through the thin air of Everest, sharing the intimate moment of triumph as she stood where her grandfather once aimed to reach, completing a chapter of her family's history. Her tale is a reminder that the summits we strive for are not just points on a map, but milestones in the personal odysseys that define us. Take a listen and join us for a story that's sure to lift your spirits and maybe, inspire your next adventure. Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com

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 sighting in 1897 Texas. His determination shines through the recounting of numerous rejections before the triumph of his first published novel. Striking a chord, we explore the creative parallels between the rhythmic storytelling of the blues guitar and the narrative arcs of a novel. Brian reveals the meditative process of story crafting, akin to composing music, where daily walks help visualise scenes as vibrant as cinema. The discussion takes a turn into the realm of film adaptation potential, especially in a post-pandemic world thirsty for content. Brian shares a collegiate epiphany that ignited his passion for the blues, a flame that continues to warm the hearts of his characters and the soul of his storytelling. Closing out, we jam into the correlation between literature and music, specifically how Brian's novel "Sins in Blue" marries historical fiction with the compelling life of a blues guitarist. Our conversation also waltzes past Brian's former life as a DJ, revealing an ear finely tuned to the evolution of the blues scene, from the raw delta origins to the electrifying riffs of revolutionaries like Stevie Ray Vaughan. Brian teases his upcoming projects, including a dystopian crime novel, and walks us through the treasure trove of insights and connections waiting at https://authorbriankaufman.com/ and his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/bkaufman1852. Tune in for an episode that resonates with the melodies of a life richly lived and the harmonious blend of history, mystery, and music. Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com