Behind The Glass: A Parsonage Podcast

Series two returns with our first guest of 2025, the Rev. Oli Preston of Haworth Parish Church. We discuss 19th-century medicine, looking after ourselves and the environment, and what it's like stepping into Patrick Brontë's shoes in the parish he cared for.Stay till the end for some beautiful music - the first of the podcast!Say hi! Let us know if you enjoyed the episode.

Welcome back to Behind the Glass with this early-release first episode of series 2! Sam and new co-host Connie talk to prize-winning poet Jenny Mitchell, in an episode that touches on interpretations of 'Jane Eyre', Britain's colonial past, and themes related to Black history for Black History Month this October. We'll return in 2025 to showcase the rest of series 2 - for now, enjoy this taster...! Say hi! Let us know if you enjoyed the episode.

Join Adam Sargant, the charming host of the Haunted Haworth Ghost Walks, as he weaves together spooky tales and local folklore tied to the Brontë sisters. Expect a captivating dive into the eerie history of Howarth and Branwell Brontë's family dynamics. The conversation sparkles with humorous anecdotes and discussions about a haunted piano that echoes Victorian society's music significance. Through games and personal stories, Adam and the co-hosts explore the ghosts of literary history, blending the supernatural with the art of storytelling.

Emma Conally-Barklem, a poet and yoga teacher from North Yorkshire, discusses the intersection of meditation, literature, and self-identity. She dives into the Brontë sisters' legacy, sharing personal stories tied to nostalgia and local heritage. The conversation humorously examines historical footwear, particularly Charlotte Brontë's boots, as reflections of identity. Emma also presents an impromptu poem, highlighting how yoga fosters creativity and resilience in personal transformation, blending her passion for poetry and mindfulness.

Ramlah Qureshi, a Visitor Experience Assistant and talented artist at the Brontë Parsonage Museum, dives into the vibrant intersection of art and literature. She discusses the Brontë sisters' creative synergy, drawing parallels to modern female artists like Taylor Swift. Ramlah also emphasizes the significance of memory and personal artifacts in shaping identity. The conversation takes a playful turn as they explore Yorkshire's local culture and celebrate Anne Brontë's feminist legacy, making connections between historical and contemporary themes.

Join Lucy Powrie, an author, YouTuber, and Brontë Society trustee, as she dives into the enchanting worlds of the Brontë sisters. They explore the legacy of these literary giants, discussing eco-feminism and personal challenges faced by Charlotte. Lucy shares insights on journaling as a tool for creativity, revealing how it fosters self-expression and connects to themes of neurodiversity. The conversation also highlights the vibrant characters and landscapes of Emily Brontë’s Gondal, weaving in personal stories and reflections that resonate deep within the literary community.

Bethany Turner-Pemberton, a PhD candidate in Textiles and Museum Studies, dives into the colorful world of fashion and history. She shares captivating stories about the evolution of textiles, revealing the harsh realities of child labor during the Industrial Revolution. The discussion explores personal connections to the Brontë sisters, showcasing how garments preserve memory and identity. With a blend of humor and insight, they examine the significance of creativity in textiles, and even have fun with anecdotes about the sisters' unique fashion choices.

Piers Tempest, an award-winning film producer and partner at Tempo Productions, joins the conversation to dive into the making of the 2022 film 'Emily.' He shares behind-the-scenes insights, including memorable moments and the challenges of adapting Brontë's work. The discussion touches on the impact of COVID-19 on production and highlights filming locations like Howarth. Additionally, Piers reflects on the significance of themes like love and remembrance in literature, linking them to contemporary adaptations and his upcoming Netflix project.

This episode features Lizzy Newman, a Visitor Experience Assistant at the Brontë Parsonage Museum and a theatre student at the University of Leeds. She shares fascinating insights on the grave realities of Victorian life, including hygiene challenges in Haworth. The conversation also explores how the Brontë sisters might influence modern horror films, while discussing the significance of personal items like her celestial Doc Martens as symbols of identity and culture. Lizzy reflects on the emotional struggles of women writers and the importance of storytelling in preserving heritage.

Rowan Coleman, an award-winning author and Brontë enthusiast, shares her passion for the iconic sisters. She discusses her unique approach to reimagining the Brontës as amateur detectives, humorously suggesting 'What would Charlotte Brontë do?' merchandise. The conversation flows through fragrant memories of autumn, baking, and the beauty of nature as experienced by the Brontës. The hosts also reflect on Anne Brontë's often overshadowed legacy, calling for greater recognition of her literary contributions while engaging listeners in their exploration of Brontë history.