Undercurrent Stories

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Alison Fragale—behavioural scientist, professor, and author of the groundbreaking book, Likeable Badass.Alison shares her expertise on what it takes to build respect, wield influence, and navigate the challenges of modern workplaces with confidence and authenticity. We discuss the fascinating psychology behind status, unpack the balance between warmth and competence, and learn why self-promotion isn’t just important—it’s essential. Plus, Alison offers practical exercises to help you negotiate better, advocate for yourself, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you’re aiming to level up in your career, strengthen your personal brand, or simply understand the science of influence, this episode is packed with actionable insights. I hope you enjoy the show.Links:https://alisonfragale.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonfragale/https://www.instagram.com/alisonfragale/Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

 Inside the Exclusive World of Executive Jet Travel: Captain Nick GloverIn this episode of Undercurrent Stories, host Bob Wells sits down with Nick Glover, a former executive jet captain with an impressive career in business aviation and instructor at Aerobility, a unique charity offering people with disabilities the opportunity to fly. Together, they explore the fascinating life of an executive jet pilot and the exclusive world of VIP and celebrity air travel. From handling pre-flight checks and last-minute trips to flying royalty and high-profile public figures, Nick’s journey offers an insider’s perspective filled with thrilling stories and memorable experiences.Nick also discusses his work with Aerobility, sharing how the organisation empowers people with disabilities by giving them a chance to experience the joy of flight. His inspiring career advice, insights on aviation, and anecdotes about encounters with iconic figures make this a truly uplifting episode.Highlights- Nick’s journey to becoming an executive jet captain and the challenges he overcame- The unique experiences of flying celebrities, royalty, and government officials- Memorable stories, including his interactions with Gordon Brown and President Jimmy Carter- The transformative power of Aerobility’s work and the positive impact on disabled individuals- Advice for aspiring pilots and those interested in a career in aviationResources- Learn more about Aerobility  https://www.aerobility.com/ and how you can support their mission- Follow Undercurrent Stories on social media for updates on upcoming episodesEnjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Share this episode with friends and family who are aviation enthusiasts or would be inspired by Nick’s story. Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

This week's guest is Lucy Dawson, a writer, autism advocate, and ambassador for Wiltshire Council, who shares her inspiring journey navigating life as an autistic person. Lucy opens up about her experiences growing up, the challenges of self-acceptance, and her path to embracing her neurodiversity. From her unique family dynamics to the solace she found in music, Lucy discusses how her life was shaped by her autism diagnosis, finally received in her early forties.Key Topics Discussed:Growing Up Undiagnosed: Lucy talks about her childhood and the difficulties of fitting in, her father's probable autism, and how the lack of understanding in the 1970s and 80s affected her sense of self.Self-Discovery and Diagnosis: She shares the journey to her autism diagnosis at age 43, which brought clarity and relief after years of being misdiagnosed with mental health conditions.Finding Community: Lucy recalls the sense of belonging she found in the fan community of the band Cardiacs and how this helped her express her identity.Challenges with Social Interaction: The episode explores Lucy’s struggles with social situations, the importance of planning, and how autism affects her ability to connect with others.Wiltshire Council Advocacy: Lucy discusses her work with Wiltshire Council, where she uses her experiences to improve inclusion for autistic people, providing insight into autistic-friendly practices and digital content initiatives.Advice for Parents and Self-Advocates: Lucy offers tips for parents who suspect their children may be on the autism spectrum and encourages self-advocacy for those seeking diagnosis and support.Benefits of Neurodiversity: The episode touches on how autistic traits like intense focus and unique problem-solving abilities contribute positively to society, with examples from notable figures and the tech industry.Quotes:"Receiving my diagnosis was a relief... I finally understood why I struggled with things that seemed easy for others.""Autism is a spectrum, and every autistic person is different. We’re all on our unique paths.""Neurodiversity allows us to approach problems from angles that others may not see, making our contributions invaluable."Links and Resources:Lucy Dawson’s Substack National Autistic Society Wiltshire Council Autism Resources If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Undercurrent Stories, leave a review, and share it with friends and family. Your support helps us continue bringing you compelling stories from inspiring individuals like Lucy.Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode we hear from Sue Heim, an interpretive volunteer at the San Diego Zoo and dedicated volunteer with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF). Fresh from a month-long trip in Namibia, Sue shares her firsthand experiences in cheetah conservation, discussing the unique traits, challenges, and conservation strategies for cheetahs.Key Topics Covered:- Sue's Journey to Conservation: Learn how Sue's passion for cheetahs led her from San Diego to Namibia, working alongside experts at CCF.- Understanding Cheetah Characteristics: Sue discusses the unique behaviours and physical traits of cheetahs, including their unparalleled speed and distinctive “tear marks.”- Cheetah Conservation Challenges: Key threats to cheetah survival include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and the illegal pet trade. Sue explains how these factors impact cheetah populations.- Innovative Conservation Efforts: From livestock-guarding dogs to anti-poaching initiatives, discover how CCF and local communities collaborate to protect cheetahs and educate the public.- A Day in the Life of a Volunteer: Sue recounts her diverse experiences at CCF, including feeding cheetahs, training livestock-guarding dogs, and helping with the "Dancing Goat Creamery" at the centre.- Get Involved: Sue shares actionable steps listeners can take to support cheetah conservation from anywhere in the world, including donations, virtual challenges, and zoo volunteering.Notable Quotes: "Cheetahs rely on speed rather than brute force—an incredible animal that runs up to 70 miles per hour." "They are non-confrontational, even in the wild. If you see a cheetah, it’s more likely to hiss and run away than to attack." "We’re teaching local farmers sustainable ways to protect livestock and reduce conflicts with cheetahs, from specialised fencing to livestock-guarding dogs."How You Can Help:1. **Donate to the Cheetah Conservation Fund**: Your contributions help fund critical conservation efforts across Africa.2. **Spread Awareness**: Educate friends and family about the plight of cheetahs and the ongoing conservation efforts.4. **Volunteer Locally**: Many zoos and conservation organisations offer opportunities to support big cat conservation.Resources:- Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) https://cheetah.org/- Follow Sue Heim's Journey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sue.heim   for insights and photos from her experiences at CCF.Enjoyed the Episode?Please subscribe, share with friends, and leave us a review! For more updates, follow us on social media.Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this episode we explore the rich cultural and social landscape of the Edwardian era with historian Alwyn Turner, author of Little Englanders: Britain in the Edwardian Era. From the legacy of Edward VII to the early days of tabloids and the impact of emerging technologies, Alwyn shares insights into how the period shaped modern Britain.Key Topics:The Edwardian Age Defined: What years the era covered and how Edward VII’s reign reflected societal change.Public Perceptions of Edward VII: How he was viewed compared to Queen Victoria.The Rise of the Labour Party and Political Shifts: How early welfare reforms laid the groundwork for the modern state.The Influence of Early Tabloids: How The Daily Mail revolutionised news consumption and democracy.Entertainment & Pop Culture: Freak shows, music halls, and the Fat Boy of Peckham's fame.Technological Innovations: The impact of cars, telephones, and aviation on everyday life.Shifting Social Values: The loosening of Victorian morals and recurring cultural cycles.Memorable Moments:Oscar Wilde’s Lasting Influence: How Wilde’s trial changed male social behaviour.Horatio Bottomley’s Rise and Fall: The charismatic fraudster who inspired Toad of Toad Hall.Marie Lloyd’s Legacy: Celebrating Britain’s greatest female entertainer.About Our Guest:Alwyn Turner is a senior lecturer in history at the University of Chichester. His research delves into the interplay between culture, politics, and society in 20th-century Britain. His book, Little Englanders, offers a colorful exploration of the Edwardian era.Where to Find Alwyn’s Work:Little Englanders: Britain in the Edwardian Erahttp://www.alwynwturner.com/Enjoyed the Episode?Please subscribe, share with friends, and leave us a review! For more updates, follow us on social media.Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

What is a Black Hole? How many are there in the Universe? How are they formed? What size are they and what would the consequences be if we were able to travel  to a Black Hole?To answer these questions and many more join me in conversation with Marcus Chown, an award-winning writer and broadcaster. Formerly a radio astronomer at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, he is a Royal Literary Fund Fellow at Brunel University. His books include The Ascent of Gravity, which was The Sunday Times Science Book of the Year; and he has just brought out his latest book A Crack in Everything: How Black Holes Came in From the Cold and Took Centre Cosmic Stage. As well as writing, Marcus was a regular guest on the BBC4 comedy-science show, It’s Only A Theory, and often appears on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch.Marcus's links:https://marcuschown.com/Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crack-Everything-Black-Cosmic-Centre/dp/1804544329Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

This episode features Ian Hatton, English guitarist and former member of the hard rock band Bonham. Our conversation starts with the story  about the foundation of the band in 1988 with Jason Bonham, son of the late Led Zeppelin drummer, John Bonham.We discuss Ian's journey into composing for TV and film scores and we learn what it was like  playing alongside Paul Rodgers, Jeff Back, Brian May and many more rock icons.The episode concludes with a deep dive into Ian's latest project, Old Glenham Brewery. Producing British cask ales for the American market Ian talks about the inspiration for producing UK style beer as he reminisces about living in the UK and his eventual move to the USA.Ian's links: https://www.ianhatton.com/https://www.oldglenhambrewery.com/Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Live from the Edinburgh Fringe I talk to Sam Bates, the award-winning playwright and director of the Working Progress Collective Theatre. In between performances of his latest play, 'Sessions', we delve deep into Sam's personal journey. From his challenging upbringing, troubled youth and to finding his voice in the world of theatre, the episode offers a raw and honest look at a young man's journey.In the episode you will hear about;Edinburgh Fringe Experience: Sam shares what it’s like to perform at one of the world's most prestigious arts festivals without the big marketing budgets of other productions, relying on word of mouth and personal interactions to build momentum.  Sam’s Personal Journey: Growing up in a working-class background, Sam faced numerous challenges, including family struggles, legal troubles, and mental health issues. He opens up about his path from being lost and isolated to finding purpose through theatre and storytelling.The Story Behind 'Sessions:' Sam talks about his play, 'Sessions', which follows the journey of a 17-year-old facing the consequences of violent crime and his transformative relationship with an unconventional youth officer. The play draws heavily from Sam’s personal experiences and those of his peers.The Importance of Authentic Masculinity: Sam discusses his work with youth charities and the need to redefine masculinity in a healthier, more supportive way, emphasising vulnerability and emotional openness.Creating the Working Progress Collective: Sam reflects on the challenges and triumphs of setting up his theatre company and the importance of building trust and collaboration within his team.Audience Reactions: From social workers to former youth offenders, audience members connect deeply with the themes of 'Sessions'. Sam emphasises the importance of post-show discussions, where the audience can engage directly with the cast and creators.Future Plans: Looking ahead, Sam talks about plans for a UK tour, scratch nights, and new writing projects that explore working-class stories and the complexities of human nature.Memorable Quotes:“We’re never 100% healed, and we’re never 100% good. Nine times out of ten, it’s just good people sometimes doing bad things.”  “I want people to walk away from the play with a new perspective, to question their first impressions of people, especially those who seem lost or troubled.”Connect with Sam Bates and Working Progress Collective Theatre:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workingprogresscollective/- Twitter: https://x.com/WPCtheatre- Website: https://www.workingprogresscollective.co.uk/ Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this episode we dive into the transformative journey of Steve Hoffman, author of 'A Season for That'. Have you ever dreamed of leaving everything behind and starting fresh in a new country? Steve did just that when he and his family left their life in Minnesota to embrace the rural charm of a small village in southern France. Steve shares the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, the unexpected lessons learned, and the profound impact it had on his family. We explore how living in France changed Steve's perspective on life, food, and the importance of slowing down. From navigating new customs to discovering the power of local food and wine, this episode is full of insights and inspiration for anyone looking to reinvent their lives or simply find more meaning in everyday moments.In this episode we talk about:- How moving to a new country can transform your outlook on life.- The importance of embracing challenges and stepping out of your comfort zone.- Insights into the French way of life: from the deep appreciation of food and wine to the art of slowing down.- How to cultivate joy and fulfillment through cultural immersion.- Practical tips for those considering a similar life-changing adventure.About Our Guest: Steve Hoffman is a Minnesota tax preparer and food writer as well as a French speaker and shameless Francophile. His writing has won multiple awards  including the James Beard M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writer Award. He has been published in Food and Wine, The Washington Post and many other publications.His first book, 'A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France was published in July 2024. Resources Mentioned:Steve's website https://www.sjrhoffman.com/    Explore more about Steve’s journey, his writing, and his book.'A Season for That' – Available at all major bookstores and online. Also available in audiobook format, narrated by Steve himself.Follow Steve Hoffman: - Instagram   - Facebook Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!Connect with Undercurrent Stories:  - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/  - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this revealing conversation with Alicia Kearns, Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford and currently Shadow Minister for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Alicia shares insights from her journey into politics, discusses her work as an MP and provides an in-depth analysis of several pressing national and international issues.   Alicia discusses the ongoing learning process within the Conservative Party following their recent electoral defeat and the importance of returning to core values like ethics and competence.   Coming from a politically active, left-wing family, she explains her journey from being deeply influenced by Labour ideals to becoming a Conservative MP. She reflects on her background in the civil service, working in crisis communication, counter-terrorism, and national security before transitioning to politics.   Alicia provides a candid account of the demanding and often misunderstood role of an MP, including her weekly routine, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, and the impact of dealing with abuse and threats.We hear about local concerns such as the A1 road safety improvements and the controversial Mallard Pass solar farm proposal. She explains her stance on prioritising food security over using prime agricultural land for solar farms and the ethical implications involving companies accused of using forced labour.We learn about her perspective on current national issues including immigration, waterways and sewage and healthcare system reforms particularly in regard to her efforts to improve local healthcare services. With her background as Chair of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee up until the election, we explore the critical role of parliamentary scrutiny in shaping foreign policy in regard to China, war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war.We wind up with Alicia emphasising the need for public engagement and critical thinking, especially regarding national security, foreign policy, and complex international conflicts. She advocates for more open debate and education on these issues at all levels.Alicia Kearns provides an insightful look into her life as an MP, the challenges facing the Conservative Party, and the complex issues shaping the future of the UK and its global relationships. Her dedication to her constituents, commitment to ethical governance, and passion for robust foreign policy shine throughout the episode.Links:https://www.aliciakearns.com/about-alicia-kearnsCall to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com