Undercurrent Stories

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of British artist George Underwood — a name that resonates not only in the world of fine art but also in rock history. From designing iconic album covers to painting otherworldly portraits, George's work blends the mythical with the emotional in ways few can match.But George’s story is more than just brushes and canvas — it's also deeply tied to the evolution of British pop culture. As a childhood friend and early bandmate of David Bowie, George Underwood helped shape the look and feel of a musical revolution. We’ll explore how a moment of teenage mischief left Bowie with his signature eye look, and how George’s artistic vision matured into one of the most distinctive visual voices of the contemporary art scene.Whether you're an art lover, a music historian, or simply curious about the minds that shape our culture, this episode will leave you inspired both through Sound and Vision.Memorable Quotes:🎨 On Art & Creativity"I try to pull these people out from wherever they exist... they’re not real, but I try to make them appear real." — George Underwood on painting his signature otherworldly portraits"Art gets your brain working in a way nothing else does. It puts you in another world." — George Underwood on the therapeutic power of painting"A hobby can turn into a full-time obsession—if you let it." — George Underwood on creativity becoming a way of life"I’ve always liked the idea that in art, you can mess with people’s heads." — George Underwood, on his surrealistic influences🎸 On David Bowie & Music"People say, ‘You were lucky to know David Bowie.’ I say, he was lucky to know me." — George Underwood, with a smile, on his friendship with Bowie"He turned up drunk at my party, didn’t talk to the girl we both fancied—" — George Underwood recounting the infamous story behind Bowie’s eye"He used to invite us to Switzerland just to get away from the spotlight. That was David." — On Bowie’s private side"I shouted ‘Wham, bam, thank you ma'am!’ at the end of a new song—and David kept it." — George Underwood on contributing to Suffragette City*🖼️ On Album Art & Legacy"A 12-inch album cover was a beautiful format to work on—it had impact." — George Underwood on the golden era of vinyl art"Sometimes I bought an album just because of the cover. And it turned out to be brilliant." — On the visual power of record design"The face has infinite possibilities—just one brushstroke can change everything." — George Underwood on portraitureLinks:https://www.georgeunderwood.com/You can view some of George’s paintings at :Fosse GalleryFamiliar Reality8th June - 28th June 2025The Manor House, The Square, Stow-on-the Wold , Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 1AFwww.fossegallery.comIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

This episode features music pioneer Bruce Woolley, best known for co-writing the groundbreaking hit Video Killed the Radio Star. But as this conversation reveals, that’s just one highlight in a storied and continually evolving career. From his roots in Leicestershire and his early inspiration from Led Zeppelin to forming The Camera Club with a young Thomas Dolby, Bruce shares his journey through innovation, collaboration, and sonic experimentation.You’ll hear the story behind iconic songs, his adventures in synth pop, working with Grace Jones on Slave to the Rhythm, and his passion project, the Radio Science Orchestra, which brings the theremin to the forefront of 21st-century audiovisual performance.Bruce also gives an honest and insightful perspective on how AI and new technologies are reshaping the music industry, and reflects on what it means to be a true artist in the age of digital creation.🎼 Highlights:The story behind Video Killed the Radio Star and its surprising sci-fi rootsForming The Camera Club and working with Thomas DolbyWriting and producing Slave to the Rhythm for Grace JonesThoughts on AI, virtual pop stars, and the future of music creationThe mystique and magic of the thereminThe legacy of The Radio Science Orchestra and immersive audio-visual showsBruce’s latest release: Bruce Woolley & The Camera Club – The Definitive Anthology (1977–1981)🔗 Resources & Links:💿 Bruce Woolley & The Camera Club: The Definitive Anthology (via Cherry Red Records)🌐 Bruce’s website: brucewoolleyhq.com📀 Radio Science Orchestra: https://www.radioscienceorchestra.com/💬 Memorable Quotes:“The rock guitarist plays three chords in front of 3,000 people; the jazz guitarist plays 3,000 chords in front of three.” — Bruce Woolley“Sometimes I think there's a supernatural quality within music and songwriting... the future leaks through.” — Bruce WoolleyEnjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Undercurrent Stories and explore over 150 episodes featuring fascinating guests across music, history, science, philosophy, and culture.👉 Visit: undercurrentstories.com 📱 Or find us on all major podcast platformsIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In a world where so much is driven by profit, Stuart Wills reminds us of the quiet, powerful difference one person can make — without asking for a penny in return.In this heartwarming episode, I visit Stuart at his home to hear how a few unused bikes in a garage became a grassroots movement to support families, children, refugees, and low-income workers. Since founding Bourne Bike Donation and Recycle UK in 2021, Stuart has refurbished and given away nearly 400 bikes — all free of charge.Stuart shares how the project not only brought joy to others but also helped him recover from a deeply challenging period in his life. What shines through is a story of human connection, kindness, and a deep belief that doing good doesn't need to come with a price tag.What You’ll Hear:Why Stuart never charges for the bikes he repairs and gives awayHow cycling became a lifeline through his personal challengesStories of local families and workers whose lives were improved through mobilityThe emotional reward of helping others without expecting anything in returnStuart’s philosophy: reuse, repair, and give back — no strings attachedWhy recognition (including a Royal garden party invite!) is just a bonus, not the goalHighlights & Quotes:🛠️ “Recycling the cycle — that’s what it’s all about.”🎁 “When a child rides off on their first bike with a smile like it’s Christmas — that’s why I do it.”🏆 “I’ve won awards, but I didn’t start this for recognition. I started it because I love it.”Inspired? Here’s What You Can Do:Donate an unused bikeVolunteer your skills in your local communityShare this episode to inspire others to give without expecting anything in returnResources & Links:🔗 Bourne Bike Donation and Recycle UK on Facebook: 🌐 More episodes: undercurrentstories.comSupport the Show:If you’ve been inspired by Stuart’s story, consider donating a bike or volunteering locally. You can also share this episode with someone who you think might like it and please don’t forget to rate and subscribe!Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Gordon Giltrap MBE is a British guitar virtuoso known for his innovative fingerstyle technique and genre-blending compositions. With a career spanning over five decades, he has released numerous acclaimed albums, including the iconic Perilous Journey (1977), featuring the hit instrumental Heartsong. Giltrap's music fuses folk, rock, and classical influences, earning him a dedicated global following. A true master of the acoustic guitar, he has collaborated with top musicians and continues to inspire players worldwide with his unique style and musical storytelling.In this episode we talk about the upcoming auction of 18 of his guitars (June 10, 2025) — each holding a story from his life on stage and in the studio — and how downsizing, legacy, and creative renewal have shaped his latest chapter.We also hear about;Gordon's early days in the folk scene and friendship with Bert JanschHow Heartsong became an iconic theme and national favouriteCreating music without formal training — and why “doing it all wrong” workedThoughts on gear, tunings, and the role of the delay pedalCollaborations with Rick Wakeman, Brian May, and composer Nicholas HooperThe personal impact of losing his wife Hilary, and the music that followedWhy he’s letting go of his guitars — and what he hopes comes next🎸 Gordon’s Latest Releases:Starfield EPFrom Brush and Stone (Re-released on vinyl with Rick Wakeman)Travel Notes (with Chris McCormack)Scattered Chapters → All available via https://www.giltrap.co.uk/💡 Don’t miss Gordon’s guitar auction on June 10th, 2025 — hosted by Gardiner Houlgate. Details available on his website.🎙️ Subscribe for more deep-dive interviews with creative minds at undercurrentstories.com#GordonGiltrap #Heartsong #BritishGuitarist #GuitarAuction #FolkRock #MusicPodcast #UndercurrentStories👉 Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe if you enjoyed this conversation.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Colin Crabbe was the kind of man who could spot a priceless vintage car under a pile of chicken wire in Paraguay — and somehow drive it home. A flamboyant racing driver, Formula One team owner, and classic car hunter with a taste for adventure (and a knack for trouble), Colin lived life in the fast lane — sometimes literally. From smuggling D-type Jaguars out of Cuba to crashing out of races in style, his stories were as wild as you could imagine.I was lucky enough to interview Colin back in 2022, right here in our little village in Lincolnshire. With his passing earlier this year, it felt only right to bring that conversation back — this time as one extended episode. It’s funny, chaotic, moving, and full of Colin’s unmistakable charm. He’ll be sorely missed by his family, our community, and classic car lovers around the world. But what a ride he had.Colin Crabbe, motor-racing driver and entrepreneur. April 14, 1942 - March 7, 2025.Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

🎙️ Undercurrent Stories Podcast — Episode:  How to Make Life’s Toughest Decisions with Abby Davisson 📚 Featuring: Abby Davisson, Social Innovation Leader & Co-author of Money and Love: An Intelligent Roadmap for Life’s Biggest DecisionsEpisode Summary: In this insightful episode, we meet Abby Davisson, social innovation leader and co-author of Money and Love, to discuss how we can improve decision-making when it comes to two of life’s most impactful topics—relationships and finances.Abby shares her journey from nonprofit and corporate leadership to authorship and coaching, inspired by a Stanford Business School course she took with her now-husband that profoundly shaped their life together. She and co-author Myra Strober developed the “Five C’s Framework” to help others navigate life's biggest crossroads with clarity and confidence.We dive deep into:Why we often avoid talking about money in relationships—and how to break the tabooThe generational shift in financial transparency and how platforms like TikTok and Venmo /Splitwise are changing conversationsUnderstanding System 1 vs. System 2 thinking and how to tap into your rational decision-makerA practical walkthrough of the “Five C’s” framework with a personal story about whether to move house during the pandemicWhy delaying a decision is still a decision—and how to prevent regretHow AI can be a thought partner in clarifying what matters mostAbby also shares moving stories from her own life and from readers, including those making end-of-life decisions, highlighting the universal value of structured, compassionate decision-making at every stage.📘 New Release! The paperback version of Money and Love is now available in both the U.K. and US. —perfect for grads, newlyweds, or anyone at a turning point.🎯 Key Takeaway: “Don’t slide, decide.” — The biggest choices in life deserve intentionality. Whether it’s love, career, or where to live, using a clear decision-making framework can lead to more confident, values-driven outcomes.🔗 Links & Resources:Visit moneylovebook.com to take the decision-making style quiz and explore resources.Find Abby Davisson on LinkedIn and Instagram for more insights.Purchase Money and Love at your favorite bookstore or online retailer. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

📅 Episode Summary: This episode features two key figures behind one of English football’s most inspiring turnarounds: Mark Lacrouts and Russell Dodd of Nuneaton Town Football Club. Following the club’s liquidation and collapse in early 2024, a determined group of fans and community leaders rebuilt the club from the ground up—literally.With no players, no ground, and just a vision, the new Nuneaton Town FC was born. And within months, against all odds, they were crowned champions of the Midland Football League Division 1 at Step 6!  This is a story of resilience, community spirit, and the heart of non-league football.🗣️ In This Episode:How Mark and Russell got into football and their personal connections to NuneatonThe financial and logistical collapse of the original clubWhat it took to start a new club from scratch (CIC model, volunteer efforts, player recruitment)The unique dynamic of joint management between Russell Dodd and Darren ActonAchieving success on the pitch faster than anyone imaginedBuilding a community-first culture: players, fans, and families all pulling togetherTransparency, budgeting, and sustainable growth strategiesThe ultimate goal: returning home to Nuneaton and building a new stadiumThe long-term vision for youth, women's teams, and local engagementWhy non-league football is so vital and vibrant🏟️ Upcoming Highlights:Final home game: trophy presentation and club celebration Saturday 19th April 2025Cup final at Walsall’s stadium on Wednesday 30th April 2025Aiming for a record-breaking crowd of over 1,000 fans💬 Quotes:"I'm a custodian. I'm only here for a short period of time—but if we can set the foundations of a strong club, that's what really matters." - Mark"We are one club—players, fans, volunteers, the board. No egos, just a shared love of football and this town." - Russell"Starting a football club from scratch is one of the hardest things you’ll ever do—but also one of the most rewarding." - Mark"We didn’t just want talented players. We wanted the right people—the ones who would stay after the match, chat with fans, and wear the badge with pride." - Russell🧭 Useful Links: 🌐 Club Website: https://www.nuneatontownfc.co.uk/ 📅 Fixtures & Tickets: Check the website for the final home game and cup final details 📸 Follow the club on social media to stay up to date with the journey;  https://www.facebook.com/NuneatonTFC/https://www.instagram.com/nuneatontfc👥 Get Involved: Whether you’re local or just passing through, everyone is welcome at Nuneaton Town FC. Grab a burger, meet the players, and be part of something special.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

What drives a marketing executive to walk 600 miles across England during a pandemic? For David Fenton, it began with gratitude for the hospital care his premature twins received 22 years earlier and transformed into something much bigger.In this episode David recounts his remarkable journey that took him through picturesque landscapes and challenging terrains as he navigated the shifting COVID lockdowns. But what struck him most wasn't the physical challenge or stunning views – it was the extraordinary generosity he encountered along the way. From pub owners offering free accommodation when hospitality was struggling to waitresses donating their tips, these acts of kindness planted the seed for something transformative.Inspired by this David set out to write about his walk in his latest book, 'Miles, Milestones and Memories'   and this September,(2025), David's Challenge for Change invites people worldwide to walk, run, cycle or swim, collectively aiming to cover Earth's circumference (41,000km) while supporting children's charities. The statistics driving this mission are sobering: 333 million children living in extreme poverty globally, a child dying every 10 seconds from malnutrition, and millions without access to education or support for disabilities.What makes this initiative unique is its inclusive approach combined with local impact. Anyone can participate – from octogenarians walking a mile to ultra-runners covering hundreds – and choose children's charities in their own communities. For businesses, it offers team-building opportunities while supporting communities where they operate. For individuals, it's a chance to improve health while making a meaningful difference.David's story reminds us that significant change often begins with simply putting one foot in front of another. Whether you're a dedicated walker seeking purpose, a company looking for meaningful team engagement, or someone wanting to support children's causes, Challenge for Change offers a framework to turn physical activity into global impact.Ready to be part of something bigger than yourself? Visit  challengeforchange.org.uk to register for September's global journey and help children worldwide overcome barriers to education, healthcare, wellbeing, and safety.David's book 'Miles, Milestones and Memories' is available now. https://www.waterstones.com/book/miles-milestones-and-memories/david-fenton/9781398471320Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Episode Summary:In this episode of Undercurrent Stories, host Bob Wells sits  down with Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council and recently selected Conservative candidate for Greater Lincolnshire Mayor. Recorded at the historic George Hotel in Stamford, this insightful conversation delves into Rob’s journey into politics, the upcoming mayoral elections, and his vision for the future of Lincolnshire.Key Topics Discussed:✅ Rob’s personal background, upbringing, and what led him to politics✅ His experience growing up in Lincolnshire and his deep-rooted family ties to the region✅ The significance of the upcoming mayoral elections on May 1st 2025✅ The benefits of devolution and what it means for Greater Lincolnshire ✅ Key policy areas Rob is passionate about, including education, transport, infrastructure, and economic development✅ The importance of local decision-making versus central government control✅ Strategies for improving transport connectivity, including safer roads and better public transport options✅ The role of education and vocational training in shaping future job opportunities✅ Views on economic growth, business investment, and job creation in Lincolnshire✅ The future of policing, crime prevention, and community safety✅ The role of green energy, sustainability, and the impact of solar farms on agricultural land✅ Encouraging political engagement and how local government can make a real differenceNotable Quotes:“The best policies are those that put people first, whether it's young people, working families, or the elderly.”“Devolution isn't about raising taxes locally—it’s about spending government money more effectively for our communities.”“Lincolnshire has a rich industrial and agricultural history, and we need to ensure that the next generation has access to well-paying jobs and strong local businesses.”Resources & Links:Connect with Rob Waltham: Website: RobWaltham.ukFollow Rob on Facebook: Rob Waltham for Greater Lincolnshire MayorLearn more about Undercurrent Stories and explore past episodes: undercurrentstories.comCall to Action:Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Undercurrent Stories on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review! If you have any questions or suggestions for future guests, feel free to reach out.Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Undercurrent Stories, host Bob Wells welcomes Cole Smead, CEO and portfolio manager of Smead Capital Management and host of A Book with Legs podcast. Cole shares powerful insights on how reading influences investment decisions, the importance of pattern recognition in the stock market, and how history, economics, and psychology shape financial success.Discover how top investors like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger use books as a secret weapon for smart investing. Cole also discusses market trends, portfolio management, and the role of gold, real estate, and crypto in modern investing.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How reading books can improve your investment strategy 📚 ✅ The importance of pattern recognition in stock market success ✅ Warren Buffett & Charlie Munger’s reading habits for investing ✅ Insights on US vs. UK stock markets and economic trends ✅ The role of gold, real estate, and cryptocurrencies in today’s economy ✅ How to build long-term wealth through smart investing ✅ The benefits of active vs. passive investing strategiesNotable Quotes from Cole Smead📖 "All learning is pattern recognition. Investing is about discovering patterns before the market does." 📊 "The stock market wasn’t created to make everyone rich – it rewards those who think long-term." 💡 "Where your money is, is where your heart is. That’s why we invest alongside our clients."Resources & Mentions📚 Podcast: A Book with Legs – Listen Here 🌎 Investment Firm: Smead Capital Management 📖 Recommended Books: Investing: The Last Liberal Art by Robert Hagstrom / You Can Be a Stock Market Genius by Joel GreenblattConnect with Cole Smead🔗 Website: Smead Capital Management 🐦 Twitter/X: @cole_smead 📌 LinkedIn: Cole Smead📢 Listen & Subscribe! Don’t forget to subscribe to Undercurrent Stories on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review!Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com