The Plodcast

Join the speaker on a tranquil walk along the River Usk in autumn, encountering wildlife and reflecting on a historical tale of treachery. Explore St Mary's Church, Celtic headstones, and the local ironworks, while immersing in the peaceful sounds of nature. Learn about the impact of recent flooding, diverse bird species, and the serene atmosphere of the river, offering a delightful escape into the beauty of autumn.

Explore the wonders of the Lost Gardens of Heligan with Tim Smit, founder of the Eden Project. Topics include rare fruits, historical gardening techniques, and the transformative journey of restoring the gardens. Discover the significance of preserving heritage varieties and the authentic approach that makes Heligan a cherished destination.

Naturalist James Fair and local guide Rodney Smith visit Musa island in Shetland to witness the unique sight of storm petrels calling out to their mates at dusk. They explore the dedication of seabird parents and discuss running a wildlife experience business on a remote island. The podcast offers an immersive experience of nighttime bird watching on a secluded Shetland island.

Guest Sarah Orme from In the Moment magazine discusses the benefits of mindfulness in nature. Topics include reducing stress, promoting relaxation, forest bathing, birdwatching, improving sleep, encountering wildlife like wild boar, deer, badgers, and pine martens in the Forest of Dean, and exploring natural flood defenses with beavers.

Join naturalist Simon Pickering, ecological advisor to Ecotricity, on a Cotswold wildlife ramble as he discusses how wind, solar, and anaerobic digestion can power the UK's energy future. Learn about restoring meadows, wildlife observations, human impact on the countryside, using silage crops for gas plants, and the potential of wind turbines for clean energy.

Join bushcraft expert Lisa Fenton on a woodland walk where she shares insights on tracking wildlife, observing nature cues, and learning survival skills. Explore the founding of Woodsmoke School of Bushcraft, analyzing fox droppings, and discussing the importance of nature connection for personal growth and environmental stewardship.

Will, part of the Wild Place project, discusses the exciting Bear Wood project near Bristol where bears, wolves, lynx, and wolverines roam free. They explore the historical landscape, debate reintroduction of large carnivores, and showcase the fully accessible exhibit with central viewing area. The anticipation of welcoming animals like wolves and bears is highlighted in the canopy perspective at Bear Wood.

Join green woodworker Peter Wood at the Timber Festival in the National Forest as he teaches traditional wood crafting. Discover the satisfaction and mindfulness of manual craftsmanship and learn about different types of wood used in UK woodworking projects. Explore the joy of woodworking with a lathe in a forest setting and hear about the diverse courses offered by Peter Wood in Greenwood.

Father Jamie Macleod, the local vicar who saved the town of Whaley Bridge from a bursting dam, discusses the heroic actions he took in spotting the danger, raising the alarm, and leading the community's response. The podcast highlights the unity, resilience, and faith displayed during the crisis, showcasing the valor of the vicar and the emotional impact on the community. It also explores themes of community support and proposals for environmental conservation post-crisis.

Join a treasure hunt in the Cambrian Mountains of West Wales at the ancient ruins of Strata Florida abbey. Explore the rich history of the Cistercian community and medieval hospital complex. Uncover relics like coins and ceramics while digging among 800-year-old ruins. Delve into the process of excavating ancient artifacts with precision and care.