The Plodcast

Meet Mya-Rose Craig, aka Birdgirl, a leading environmental campaigner who takes listeners on a birdwatching tour in Somerset. The podcast covers her passion for wildlife, family influence on birdwatching, gap year plans, strategies to connect with nature, bird blogging adventures, urban vs. rural living, and the importance of providing nutritious food for birds.

Ornithologist Steve Roberts leads an expedition to find honey buzzard nests in a Welsh forest. Topics include tracking bird movements with GPS tags, climbing trees to reach nests, close encounters with honey buzzards, and discussing nesting behavior and habitat importance.

Season 7 of the podcast explores encounters with wildlife, chats with farmers, Dark Age wizards, Napoleonic battles, and the incredible Birdgirl. Topics include environmental activism, nature writing, farming, and a new children's story set in the countryside.

Discover the fascinating world of the common toad on the River Usk in Monmouthshire. From exploring pools full of warty wanderers to delving into literary associations, this episode celebrates the clever amphibian. Learn about their resilience in ponds and their portrayal in famous works of literature.

Explore the enchanting world of Hampshire chalk streams with Dr. George McGavin and learn about the diverse wildlife, from mayflies and damselflies to bullheads and leeches. Discover the vital role of key species, like stickleback fish and burr reed flowers, in this unique ecosystem. Hear about efforts to protect rivers amidst challenges like water abstraction and climate change. Dive into the intricate aquatic life of the stream, including diatoms, water fleas, and caddisflies, emphasizing the importance of preserving these precious habitats.

Join Scottish poet Kenneth Steven from the island of Seil as he shares the wild history of his home and reads three beautiful poems amid the enchanting atmosphere. Experience a serene morning on the island with a chorus of oystercatchers, exploring the connection between poetry, nature, and personal memories. Dive into the captivating landscapes and wildlife of the Scottish islands, finding inspiration in the beauty and tranquility of remote surroundings.

Lucy Jones, author of Losing Eden, discusses the healing power of nature and her personal journey of overcoming addiction and depression with the help of the natural world. The podcast explores the impact of nature on mental and physical health, addressing the inequality of access to green spaces. Jones emphasizes finding wonder in everyday moments and embracing the magic of nature.

Ornithologist Steve Roberts and Fergus Collins explore the mysterious world of nightjars on a Welsh hillside at dusk. They discuss the unique calls and behaviors of these nocturnal birds, tracking their progress in Wales and delving into the folklore surrounding them. With contributions from Hannah Tribe, the podcast offers a captivating glimpse into the eerie beauty of the nightjar's habitat.

Medieval historian Emma Wells explores the secrets and significance of rural churches, discussing their historical importance, architectural details, and role in community life. She delves into the history of spectacles and church effigies, highlighting the intricate symbols and societal status they represent. The conversation also touches on Cornwall's churches, their architectural diversity, and historical connections, showcasing the dual purposes of churches across regions and the rich history found in churchyards.

Join Martin Maudsley as he traces the footsteps of The Rogue Male in Dorset, blending local folklore and literary magic. Explore the mystical landscape, encounter fairies, and hear tales of hidden hideouts and shared fireside stories. Delve into the eerie atmosphere of Dorset's holloways, filled with intriguing encounters and haunting fairy tales.