Undercurrent Stories

Do you use a fitness tracker? Do you ever read or leave reviews on Trip Advisor or Amazon? Have you read the weather forecast for today? And what about polls for elections? All these are just a few examples of the use of statistics. It seems that  statistics, data and algorithms are increasingly used  to inform, educate and persuade us.Then on another  level how can we make sense of the odds of something. Could be the odds of winning the jackpot on a lottery or even the chance of being struck by lightning? We may regard ourselves as lucky or unlucky. So the big question is on one hand we have the science and all the data to give us considered answers and on the other our society’s belief and superstition with such things as bad luck happens in 3s, touching a piece of wood, 4 leaf clovers and black cats. What is the answer?Well here to help us make sense of it all I am delighted to be joined by Professor Jeffrey Rosenthal. Jeffrey is Professor of Statistics at the University of Toronto and author of several books with his most recent book being Knock on Wood: Luck, Chance and the Meaning of Everything. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Knock-Wood-Chance-Meaning-Everything/dp/1443453072Professor Jeffrey's links;http://probability.ca/jeff/https://x.com/ProbabilityProfUndercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

When I was at school in the 1970s, I remember a book lying around in the sixth form common room. It had a curious cover with a flower and a spanner merged together on a blue background.  The book, entitled Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig, had become a popular classic since its publication in 1974, was an instant bestseller, and has since become an American epic.Now, I'm not sure if any of us at school actually read the book in full, as we weren't sure what to make of it. Was it about motorcycle maintenance? Was it about Zen and Eastern mysticism and philosophy? Or was it just the story of a basic American road trip? Well, here to discuss the book and to celebrate it's 50 year anniversary , I'm delighted to welcome Mark Richardson to the show.Mark is a journalist and author and former automotive editor of the Toronto Star. Among his books is a book entitled Zen and Now, which retraces Robert Pirsig's original road trip. Mark's book has been critically acclaimed as a good primer for would be readers of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.Mark's links;https://markrichardson.ca/Mark's Book: Zen and Now. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Zen-Now-Motorcycle-Maintenance-Departures/dp/0307390691 Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Did you know that since 2001, eighty four percent of the world's skyscrapers have been built? Do you know why the Empire State Building was built with a  mooring mast?Why are skyscrapers getting taller and thinner?Here to answer those questions and many more I'm joined by Jason Barr, a professor of economics at Rutgers University, who shares his expertise on the economics and evolution in the fascinating world of  tall buildings. We discuss the history of skyscrapers, the driving forces behind their construction, and the future trends in the industry.  Topics covered include the definition of skyscrapers, the challenges of building tall structures, the impact of technology on skyscraper construction, and the safety measures implemented in these buildings. We also touch on the growth areas for tall buildings around the world, the importance of green spaces in urban development, and the future outlook for skyscrapers. This episode provides a unique and  valuable insight into the world of skyscrapers and the factors shaping their development.Jason's links:https://www.citiesintheskybook.com/Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Every day (every single day) for 12 years, Mary Jo Hoffman has made a photograph of found nature – no subject too small or too ordinary. For Mary Jo, a former aeronautical engineer, this daily ritual cracked open profound revelations about the connectedness of all things, the importance of place, and her own life.In this uplifting and inspirational conversation Mary Jo tells her fascinating life story and how anyone can take up a daily creative practice and experience something quite extraordinary!Mary Jo's links:https://stillblog.net/https://www.instagram.com/maryjohoffman/Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Do you currently meditate? Is it something that you are curious about? Well for me as a child of the 1960s and 1970s my original incorrect perception of meditation was a mixture of Eastern religions, psychedelic music, joss sticks, sitting cross legged, people going to India and ‘finding themselves,’ clearly a lot of misconceptions however, more recently the subject of meditation has become more talked about and mainstream. I was keen to invite a guest on the show who could explain about the practice of meditation and I am delighted to be joined by Claire Billings. Claire is a well being-centred leadership coach and consultant with an emphasis on helping women develop their skills and attributes into their first time leadership roles. In the episode we discuss;The history of meditationDifferent types MindfulnessThe benefits of meditationMeditation for beginnersClaire also gives a live 2 minute mini meditation which you are invited to join in! Claire's links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-billings-2217846/https://www.instagram.com/maketheleap222/https://www.instagram.com/clairebillings7/Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

In this  episode I'm delighted to welcome the Reverend Ainsley Swift , Vicar of St Michael’s Church, Bray, England, to the show.Growing up in Penny Lane Liverpool, (Made famous by The Beatles!),  Ainsley started his work as teacher and took a keen interest in community development work working in and around the docklands area of Liverpool. More recently Ainsley was nominated an honorary Canon for distinguished service to the Church of England.Our conversation includes;What life was like for Ainsley growing up in 1960s Liverpool and accompanying his sister to George Harrisons houseThe history and meaning of 'The Vicar of Bray' satirical descriptionHis 'Calling' to the ChurchDiffering religions and their placeThe dynamic of Prayer and silent contemplationAdvice for those contemplating a career in the ChurchI hope you enjoy this episode. It covers many more topics than those above and I think it  will be of interest to both members of the Church  and those curious to discover more.Links:https://www.achurchnearyou.com/Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Ever thought about starting your own podcast?This is an excerpt from the April edition of the U3A Podcast when I was interviewed by Lee Wellbrook.In the conversation we discuss the resources available and basic technological requirements for  starting your own show. There is a lot of information available both online and in book form to help you get started and the podcast community itself is very helpful.So if you are thinking about starting a show or are just curious I hope you enjoy this episode.Links:https://www.u3a.org.uk/U3A is UK wide collection of a thousand plus charities that provide the opportunity for those no longer in work to come together and learn for fun.Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Delighted to welcome back and continue my conversation with Steve Snow a former senior manager for British Airways and who now runs his own training and coaching company.We hear about Steve's first management role, his work overseas for the airline, his move to Scotland and how he faced and overcame challenges in the face of redundancies and a terrorist attack.However, this inspirational conversation is much more than  a biography. Steve shares his thoughts and insights on what to expect to face as a successful leader, not just in the aviation industry but in all businesses and in all walks of life where there are people.There really is something for everybody to take away from this I believe.I hope you enjoy the show.Steve's Links;Training and Coaching Ltd https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-snow-aa212812/Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

You have probably been  to various functions and nights out where the music was provided by a solo artist. If they performed well you may have considered them to be as good or if not better than a well known artist. You might ask why they haven’t  had their lucky break and reached the dizzy heights of stardom?To answer that question I am joined by a man who in his own words has spent ‘30 years on the bottom rung of the showbiz ladder.’ His name is Dave Dawson and today he is a full time care home musician, author and  has just brought out his latest book entitled ‘Pop Idle: 30 years on the Road as a Professional Singer. Dave has banked a wealth of experience on the live music circuit and he reveals how along the way, he’s had brushes with fame and fandom, strippers, stalkers, crooks, inebriated punters, prima donnas and various other colourful characters!The real moving part  of this interview however, is how Dave has found a truly wonderful vocation playing his music to the residents of care homes. His wide repertoire of songs, stagecraft and music skills are bringing joy and pleasure to residents  and he's loving it too!Dave's links:https://www.facebook.com/davedawsonentertainer/https://twitter.com/DerekPhilpotthttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Pop-Idle-years-professional-singer/dp/B0CYT4S142Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Robert J. Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Do you want to achieve improved mental and emotional well-being through natural remedies? Discover the solution to boost your mental health naturally and find your path to emotional wellness.My special guest is Brigitte Mars, a herbalist and Naropa University professor who has dedicated her life to exploring natural remedies for mental and emotional well-being. With a passion for holistic healing, Brigitte's extensive knowledge and experience in herbal medicine have led her to author 18 books, including her latest, "Natural Remedies for Mental and Emotional Health." Her unique approach to self-care therapies emphasises the connection between mind, body, and soul, offering practical and accessible insights that draw from centuries of traditional wisdom. Brigitte's down-to-earth approach and genuine commitment to helping others make her a trusted and relatable authority in the world of herbal medicine and holistic health.'Keep learning your whole life and have fun with it. And what's really so rewarding is our planet really needs our help.'- Brigitte MarsIn this episode, you will be able to:·       Discover natural remedies for mental health to improve your well-being.  ·       Uncover the benefits of herbal medicine for mental and emotional wellness.  ·       Learn how to grow medicinal herbs at home for your mental health toolkit.  ·       Explore the impact of diet on emotional well-being and how it can enhance mental health.  ·       Delve into the historical use of plants in medicine and its relevance to mental health today. Listeners are encouraged to explore growing medicinal herbs as a sustainable and accessible way to promote health and well-being. Brigitte Mars advocates for individuals to take responsibility for their health by learning about local plants and herbal medicine. The conversation inspires listeners to consider growing their own herbs, even in limited spaces, to incorporate natural remedies into their lifestyles for improved mental health.The resources mentioned in this episode are:·       Brigitte Mars' website: Visit Brigitte Mars' website to explore her courses, books, and herbal wisdom. The website offers a range of resources for learning about herbal medicine and natural remedies. (brigittemars.com)·       Herbal Kitchen Wizardry Course: Check out Brigitte Mars' course on herbal kitchen wizardry, a valuable resource for learning about the practical applications of herbs in cooking and wellness. This course provides hands-on knowledge for incorporating herbs into everyday life.·       Phone App: Download the iPlant with Brigitte Mars app, designed to provide information about various herbs, their uses, and potential precautions. This app is a valuable tool for learning about different herbs and their applications.·       Sacred Science Course: Explore Brigitte Mars' course Kitchen Wisdom through Sacred Science, offering insights into the medicinal and nutritional benefits of herbs. This course provides in-depth knowledge about using herbs for health and wellness.Undercurrent Stories links:https://linktr.ee/undercurrentstoriesIntro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com