Undercurrent Stories

Scaling the towering heights of Mount Everest is a feat that many of us can only dream of, but for Serena Brocklebank, it's a dream conquered not just once, but twice. Join us as Serena shares the poignant saga of her climbs, weaving her family's legacy with her own relentless pursuit of mountaineering's ultimate challenge. Her anecdotes reveal more than just the physical preparation required; they delve into the mental fortitude, the close shaves with danger, and the strength found in the camaraderie with her trusted Sherpa, Passanguru. In this episode, we gather around the campfire of Serena's memories, from her early days of adventure seeded by her bold parents to the pivotal moments that redirected her path from a law career to the unpredictable embrace of the mountains. Whether it was defying the sceptic's gaze as the only woman in her expedition team or making the agonising decision to turn back mere meters from Everest's peak, Serena's journey is a masterclass in resilience. Her stories are not just about climbing; they're about reaching into ourselves to find that unyielding adventurer spirit.Serena's experiences serve as a powerful metaphor for life's journey, painting a vivid tableau of the thrills and spills that come with chasing one's passions. Her voice guides us through the thin air of Everest, sharing the intimate moment of triumph as she stood where her grandfather once aimed to reach, completing a chapter of her family's history. Her tale is a reminder that the summits we strive for are not just points on a map, but milestones in the personal odysseys that define us.  Take a listen and join us for a story that's sure to lift your spirits and maybe, inspire your next adventure.Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

At the ripe age of 40, Brian Kaufman decided to carve out a new trail, trading his chef's hat for a pen and transforming his lifelong writing dreams into gripping tales that cross genres. Our latest episode welcomes Brian, an author whose works are as diverse as his background, which includes stints as a radio host, pro wrestler, and blues guitarist. We delve into his journey and his latest novel, "A Persistent Echo," where he merges historical intrigue with the fantastical elements of a UFO sighting in 1897 Texas. His determination shines through the recounting of numerous rejections before the triumph of his first published novel.Striking a chord, we explore the creative parallels between the rhythmic storytelling of the blues guitar and the narrative arcs of a novel. Brian reveals the meditative process of story crafting, akin to composing music, where daily walks help visualise scenes as vibrant as cinema. The discussion takes a turn into the realm of film adaptation potential, especially in a post-pandemic world thirsty for content. Brian shares a collegiate epiphany that ignited his passion for the blues, a flame that continues to warm the hearts of his characters and the soul of his storytelling.Closing out, we jam into the correlation between literature and music, specifically how Brian's novel "Sins in Blue" marries historical fiction with the compelling life of a blues guitarist. Our conversation also waltzes past Brian's former life as a DJ, revealing an ear finely tuned to the evolution of the blues scene, from the raw delta origins to the electrifying riffs of revolutionaries like Stevie Ray Vaughan. Brian teases his upcoming projects, including a dystopian crime novel, and walks us through the treasure trove of insights and connections waiting at https://authorbriankaufman.com/ and his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/bkaufman1852. Tune in for an episode that resonates with the melodies of a life richly lived and the harmonious blend of history, mystery, and music.Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

This episode features Sandra L. Rostirolla award winning  author of young adult fiction.In one of our most deep and sensitive conversations to date Sandra discusses her new book 'Making Friends With Monsters' which aims to help end the silence around suicide.Drawing on her own tragic family experiences Sandra hopes that the book will help teenagers navigate adolescence and feel able to talk about their emotions and what's going on inside. Studies from Emory University and University of Rochester have shown that teenagers who communicate their emotions are less likely to fall into depression and have suicidal thoughts.If you or someone you know needs help here is the link to Global Suicide Hotlines;https://faq.whatsapp.com/1417269125743673Sandra's link;https://slrostirolla.com/https://www.instagram.com/slrostirolla/https://www.facebook.com/SLRostirolla/https://twitter.com/SLRostirollahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrarostirolla/Study Links: https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/embargo-teenagers-ability-to-describe-negative-emotions-protects-against-depression-384462/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Today’s guest is Stewart Hill former Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army.On the 4th of July in 2009, Stewart led 160 men in a close combat fight against the Taliban in some of the fiercest fighting seen by UK forces in Afghanistan. Eight hours later, medics battled to save his life after shrapnel from an (IED) tore in to his brain.Not surprisingly, he returned a different man, but, incredibly, he has converted his experiences into a catalyst for new possibilities and a fascination with how we can use our brains more effectively in the workplace or in our personal lives, which he talks about through motivational speaking and his mantra Making Lives BetterHe suggests that living in the moment and exercising mindfulness—acknowledging, accepting and parking negative thoughts, is the most efficient way to do this.I have to say in the course of this conversation like me you will be forgiven for concluding that Stewart’s eloquence and ease of talking about his subject equates to a full recovery however, as the conversation developed and  I learned more about a severe brain injury the battle to overcome the injury is a constant for  Stewart which he faces with  courage and is a lesson for us all. At the end of the conversation Stewart and I were conscious that there were many other subjects that we wanted to discuss such as mental health, resilience and neuroplasticity and this will make up the basis for another conversation in the near future.Stewart's links;https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewart-hill-making-lives-better/https://stewarthillspeaker.com/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Step into the world of Rob Waddington, an accomplished drummer and avid fisherman residing near Rutland Water in England. Rob transports us into his dual passions, sharing his musical journey with the band New Model Army in the 1980's and his lifelong love for fly fishing in one of the most renowned spots in the UK and Europe.Join the conversation as we explore the rich history of fly fishing, the art of imitating a fish's natural food source and the camaraderie built on the riverbanks. From carp to salmon, the show paints a picture of fishing across beautiful locations like Scotland, Iceland, and Russia. Our special guest not only shares his experiences but also the technical skill required for different types of fishing. Get ready to be inspired as we turn the spotlight to a licensed fishing coach, who turned his hobby into a full-fledged career. From offering courses, to organising corporate team-building activities, he embodies the spirit of turning passion into profession. We explore a range of topics, including the art of eating the catch and the factors that influence its taste. If you've ever harboured a curiosity for fishing, this episode could be your perfect bait. So reel in and enjoy as we cast the net wide on the art and allure of fishing!Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Have you ever wondered if you could paint?  My guest today is successful artist and inspiring art teacher, Steve Carroll.Steve firmly believes that we all have an inherent ability to draw and paint and that it is never too late to learn. In this 30 minute episode Steve gives practical tips on how we can all learn to draw and paint and talks about his online art courses which have helped many people discover their artistic talents.We embark on an intimate journey of understanding art as Steve shares his unique definition of art. He discusses the crucial role of a good teacher in shaping an artist and his method of teaching art to beginners. We transition into the burgeoning intersection of art and technology, exploring how AI is transforming creative expression and the potential implications it holds for the art world. Steve also sheds light on the therapeutic power of art, discussing how it contributes to mental health and alters our perception of the world. Discover more about Steve's artistic practices, including oil painting and drypoint, and the importance of networking among artists.  Whether you're an aspiring artist or an art enthusiast, this episode is sure to ignite your artistic spirit.For more information on Steve's online art courses visit;https://stevecarrollarttutor.uk/ Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Hear this inspiring conversation with William Adkins  his intriguing journey from art school graduate to a remarkable teacher in Dallas ISD and his adventures in retirement. His fascination with art and global education was not only unique but also extremely impactful, leading him to a Fulbright Fellowship and a journey to Japan that would dramatically shape his approach to teaching. As he opens up about his experiences, it's hard not to be inspired by how he globalised his classroom, encouraging young people to think beyond their immediate surroundings and gaining international fellowships along the way.As William transitioned into retirement, he adopted a fascinating mantra - "negative split". This mantra, along with his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, shaped his outlook on retirement. In our chat, we discuss these influences, his thoughts on retirement, and his newly found love for hiking Camino de Santiago, a challenging pilgrimage route in Northern Spain. The tales of his hike, the challenges he faced on the trail, and the invaluable lessons he learned about slowing down and truly living in the moment, provide a compelling insight into his life post-retirement.William's journey doesn't stop there. His future plans include a potential move to Mexico, running another marathon, and expanding his YouTube channel titled "I'm Not Dead Yet!" Inspired by a Monty Python reference, it's clear that William’s sense of humour and zest for life are guiding him through his retirement journey. His captivating blend of artistic pursuits, global education, challenging hikes, and unique retirement plans make for a truly captivating conversation. So join us as we explore William’s fascinating journey, wishing him the best as he embarks on this new chapter of life.William's blog;https://www.nobodog.com/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

(Another chance to listen to one of our most popular episodes!)Prepare yourself to be transported back to 16th and 17th century England, where religious tensions between Protestants and Catholics were at fever-pitch. We promise to unveil the untold story of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, an event in British history often shrouded in myth and misinformation. With esteemed historian Bill Cunningham as our guide, we'll walk you through the gripping tale of how a group of Catholic conspirators, led by the charismatic Robert Catesby, planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament.As we journey through this fascinating period, we'll shine a spotlight on each key player - from the misunderstood Guy Fawkes, often mistakenly identified as the plot's mastermind, to the lesser-known conspirators such as the Wintour Brothers, Thomas Percy, Francis Tresham, and Everard Digby. Bill helps us unravel the intricate web of their interrelationships, as well as the clandestine meetings where they hatched their audacious plot, a plot born from deep-seated resentment and the desire for religious freedom. Together, we'll expose the nail-biting aftermath of the plot - the swift apprehension of the conspirators, their chilling trials at the Tower of London, and the ingenious way Guy Fawkes managed to dodge an even more gruesome fate. We'll reflect on the tragic repercussions for the families left behind, shedding light on the true cost of this historic event. If you've ever wanted to peel back the layers of Britain's bonfire-night tradition and explore the real story beneath the smoke and fireworks, this episode will not disappoint. So, buckle up and let's dive deep into the annals of history.Episode Highlights(00:08 - 00:42) Guy Fawkes and Catesby(05:42 - 07:01) The Gunpowder Plot and Religious Conflict(12:27 - 13:25) Plotting Against Queen Elizabeth(15:45 - 17:09) The Gunpowder Plot(23:43 - 24:35) Blow Up Parliament, Install Catholic Queen(29:13 - 30:17) Gunpowder Plot Conspirators' Trials and Executions(33:54 - 34:47) Origins and Paradoxes of Bonfire Night(38:03 - 38:56) Feelings About the Failed PlotEpisode Chapters(00:05) The Gunpowder Plot and Religious FrictionWe discuss the Gunpowder Plot, religious tensions, Robert Catesby and restrictions on Catholics during Elizabeth's reign.(11:46) The Gunpowder Plot and Key CharactersRobert Catesby, Guy Fawkes, Wintour Brothers, Thomas Percy, Francis Tresham, Everard Digby, and Queen Elizabeth are discussed in relation to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.(16:13) The Gunpowder Plot of 1605Robert Catesby was a charismatic leader who recruited for the foiled Gunpowder Plot of 1605, with Lord Montego and Robert Cecil playing key roles and Guy Fawkes being the most famous member.(27:59) The Gunpowder Plot and Its AftermathRobert Catesby recruited followers, including Guy Fawkes, to plot the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, leading to their trials, punishments, and tragic aftermath.(This episode is a repeat from Nov. 2020)Bill's Instagram page  https://www.instagram.com/williamdavidcunningham/Stamford Mayors Guides https://www.thestamfordtownguidedtours.co.uk/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Ever wondered how a punk band leader evolves from hardcore rock to Americana? Join us as we welcome the charismatic Blag Dahlia, founder of the iconic American punk band, The Dwarves. This high-energy conversation takes us on a musical journey through Blag's roots, his varied influences and the significant shift in his music style with his latest album release under the name Ralph Champagne. We also dive into the much-anticipated release of The Dwarves 'Concept Album' set for release on November 17th and their coinciding US tour.We then unpack The Dwarves musical evolution, exploring their genre transitions from hardcore punk to pop punk, 60s garage, and thrash metal. Get a sneak peek into their upcoming 'Concept Album' that boasts an eclectic collection of artists including Nick Oliveri on bass, Josh Freese on drums, and  Salt Peter. In a lighter vein, enjoy our chat about the humorous Ralph Champagne track 'Girlfriend', a delightful homage to the quintessential American sound.Finally, we take a look at Blag's solo endeavors and collaborations with producer Andy Carpenter. From 70s glam bands to country, Americana  and acoustic guitar-focused music, the range of genres is impressive. Blag shares exciting details about the upcoming Dwarves tour opening at The Rock in Tucson on 2nd November 2023, a potential UK visit, and moonlighting as an author. The conversation concludes with a preview of the band's future gigs with Bad Religion, their participation in the Punk in the Park Festival, and the re-release of the famous 'Blood, Guts, and Pussy' album. Don't miss this fascinating glimpse into the ever-evolving punk music scene.Dwarves Links;https://thedwarves.com/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Prepare for an enlightening journey as we sit down with Rob Moore, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Progressive Property and the voice of one of the UK’s most followed podcasts, 'Disruptors.' Rob’s unique story of overcoming early struggles with loneliness and conflict-avoidance to build a real estate empire is sure to inspire. But it's not just about his climb to success; it's about the lessons learned on the way and the wisdom he’s eager to share with us all.Immerse yourself in an engaging conversation about the complex world of finance and economics. Rob’s insights into the governmental role in taxation and debt, the power struggles amongst big banks, and the urgent need for a competitive banking sector promise to reshape your perspective. We also challenge the biases in mainstream media's coverage of monetary policies, and explore the potential of decentralised currencies and cryptocurrencies to disrupt the traditional financial system. Brace for a hard-hitting discussion on the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). We delve into the dual use paradox of AI, highlighting its revolutionary role in diagnosing ailments and creating cures, as well as its potential misuse in creating potent diseases. Rob caps off the conversation with news on his upcoming projects and his ambitious goal of becoming a top recognised specialist in money. Join us for a captivating chat that promises thought-provoking insights and actionable advice.Rob's links:https://robmoore.com/https://www.instagram.com/robmooreprogressive/https://twitter.com/robprogressiveDisruptors Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disruptors/id1076679649Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com