Undercurrent Stories

Ever wondered how music journalists navigate the world of interviewing rock stars and their infamous egos? I recently  had the pleasure of chatting with Claire Moat, a music journalist, teacher, and owner of five horses, who gave us some fascinating insights into her experiences in the music industry. Claire shares her organic journey into music journalism due to her love for literature and the company she kept, recounting tales from her interviews with rock legends like David Coverdale, Van Halen and Ozzy Osbourne, and the strategies she employed to keep their egos in check. Claire opens up about her time as a music journalist  and discusses her role as Editor's Assistant - her day job while she was writing for music magazines. She also shares the challenges she faced in balancing her passion for music journalism with her other commitments. Claire's stories are a testament to her no-nonsense attitude and her ability to maintain that attitude even when dealing with some of the biggest names in the music industry.In this insightful conversation, Claire also talks about the importance of studying journalism, the skills needed to become a successful music journalist, and her thoughts on writing a book. We explore her admiration for authorship and the advice she has for aspiring music journalists. So, if you're curious about the world of music journalism or simply want to hear some fascinating stories from a true industry expert, don't miss this episode with Claire Moat!Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Join me for an incredible conversation with the legendary Ted Carroll as we journey through his 60 plus-year music career. From his start in the early 50s, listening to jazz and discovering Rock and Roll, to managing the band Skid Row, which included the talented Gary Moore, Ted's experiences in the music industry are nothing short of fascinating. Listen in as we reflect on the success of the bands he's worked with, and learn how he began booking gigs for English and Irish bands in the summer of 1968.Ted shares the story of Thin Lizzy's early days and the impact that Slade's tour had on their development – We hear how Lizzy's hit 'The Rocker' included the lyric "Rock on Stall," which was inspired by Ted's own record store. We also discuss the decision that led to Gary Moore's departure from the band and how Ted eventually made the choice to launch Chiswick  Records. Ted's keen eye for talent is evident in the bands he's discovered and helped, including Motorhead and Sniff 'n' the Tears.Finally, Ted opens up about his passion for music and how it led him to open his new Rock On Records in Stamford, using it as a platform to make people aware of great music. We also discuss his charitable work, selling memorabilia from bands like the Sex Pistols and the Clash to raise money for charity. Ted's story is an inspiring example of combining his hobbies and mission to make a difference in the world. Don't miss this captivating episode with the one and only Ted Carroll!Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Growing up as the daughter of notorious mafia boss Vincent 'the Chin' Gigante, Rita Gigante faced unique challenges that most of us could only imagine. What makes her story even more incredible is her journey of discovering her empathic nature and psychic gifts, which she now uses to help others heal. Join me in my conversation with Rita, an acclaimed healer, psychic, author, speaker, and teacher, to explore her fascinating story.In our conversation, we explore the dichotomy between Rita's upbringing and her path to becoming a successful healer and psychic. We delve into her coming out story, her father's expectations for her relationships, and the unforgettable moment when she witnessed a violent event as a young child. Lastly, Rita shares how she is taking her work out on the road and the ways people can connect with her online. Don't miss this fascinating conversation as we explore her incredible life's journey.Rita's link;https://www.ritagigante.net/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Join me in a fascinating conversation with Rob Deeks, the CEO of Together As One, a youth-led charity working to bring communities together through training, youth work, and creative projects.Rob shares his personal journey and the life-changing work he's doing with the charity, which is  based in Slough in the UK.Through a combination of training, youth work, and creative projects they aim to build bridges across diverse communities and foster peace.Listen in as we discuss the origins of Together as One and the challenges they face in addressing tensions within diverse communities.We explore the groundbreaking initiative that empowered young people to help address and resolve the conflict between various  rival groups.Rob also shares his experience of how Together As One becomes aware of and works to address tensions in communities, highlighting the importance of understanding the root of the conflict before finding a solution. We also discuss the impact of social media on young people's lives and the role it plays in exacerbating existing tensions.Finally, we discuss the power of education, sport, music, and art in fostering understanding and cohesion within communities. We learn about the innovative methods Together As One uses to engage and empower young people, such as their spoken word project.Rob provides some invaluable advice for anyone considering a career in youth work and the incredible impact it can have on the lives of young people and their communities.Link below;https://togetherasone.org.uk/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Ever struggled with making small talk at a networking event or social gathering? You're not alone - but fear not, because today we're chatting with communication expert Debra Fine! As a sought-after keynote speaker and author, Debra has helped clients like Google, Hyatt, and the International Fire Chiefs Association hone their communication skills, and she's here to share her expertise with you.In our conversation, we'll explore the techniques for mastering small talk, from defining it to developing it. You'll get valuable tips for handling these conversations, especially if you're shy or struggle with remembering names. Plus, we'll discuss Debra's book, The Fine Art of Small Talk, which offers great insight into communication skills. Tune in and learn how to elevate your small talk game and make meaningful connections!Debra's links;https://www.debrafine.com/https://www.instagram.com/finedebra/?hl=enhttps://twitter.com/DebraFineThe Fine Art of Small Talk Book http://tiny.cc/7w47vzQuestion or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

To celebrate 3 years of Undercurrent Stories we are re-releasing one of our most popular episodes!Ānḍārakārēnṭa sṭōrijēra 3 bachara udayāpana karatē āmarā āmādēra sabacēẏē janapriẏa parbagulira madhyē ēkaṭi punarāẏa prakāśa karachi!The story of how an Englishman visited India and discovered how his lifelong love and talent for art could help change and improve the lives of young people living on the streets of Kolkata.Ēkajana inrēja kībhābē bhāratē giẏēchilēna ēbaṁ śilpēra prati tāra ājībana bhālabāsā ēbaṁ pratibhā kībhābē kalakātāra rāstāẏa basabāsakārī taruṇadēra jībana paribartana ēbaṁ unnata karatē sāhāyya karatē pārē tāra galpa.Steve Carroll, artist, author and teacher tells us about what life is like for people, especially for children on the streets of Kolkata where poverty, drugs and organised crime are rife.We talk about how Steve finally went to Kolkata and how, after experiencing poverty at first hand, he came  to love the city and it’s people. He discovered that his talent for art was not just a commodity but a way to positively influence young people’s lives for the better. Links to:The Charities; https://emcalcutta.org/  https://pursuitinternational.org,Steve's artwork; https://stevecarrollarttutor.uk/kolkata.htmlIf you purchase any artwork from Steve's Kolkata page all monies go to Emanuel Ministries Calcutta and contribute towards their precious work in helping look after children living on the pavements of Kolkata. Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Would you like your audience to really absorb and remember the next presentation or speech you make?How often have you watched a presentation,  been overwhelmed with facts and figures and come away barely recalling anything about it?My guest argues that by incorporating a story into a corporate presentation for example, the audience is much more likely to stay motivated and the presentation  will leave a lasting impact.  He describes how he used 'The 12 Days of Christmas' in his end of year Finance presentation!My guest today is Jason Sinclair. Jason is  Group Finance Director for the ADS Group. (It's subsidiary runs the famous Farnborough Air Show). We discuss Jason’s very own example of the use of a bedtime story which he made up and used  to encourage his young daughters to fall asleep!  ' Weird Bob'  tells the story of a giraffe that is different from the rest of the herd. It left such an impression on his now grown up daughters, that they persuaded Jason to publish the story for other young children to enjoy! There is no doubt that the telling of stories can enhance our daily lives and those around us. I hope that you enjoy Jason’s own ‘story.'Jason's book is available below;https://www.authorhouse.com/en-gb/bookstore/bookdetails/851045-weird-bobQuestion or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

This episode features best selling and  award winning author Wendy Orr.Wendy’s many books for children have been published in 27 countries and won awards around the world. Prominent among them is Nim’s Island, which was made into the 2008 film of the same name, starring Jodie Foster; a 2013 sequel, Return to Nim’s Island, was loosely based on Wendy's book Nim at Sea.As well as discussing her books, a large part of the interview is devoted to understanding the craft of writing which will be helpful for both seasoned and novice writers.To learn more about Wendy please see link below;https://wendyorr.com/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Bill Cunningham, Historian and tour guide walks and talks us through the  streets of the historic county town of Oakham in Rutland, England's smallest county. Bill explains how Oakham has gained either fame or notoriety on a national scale due to its association with several prominent personalities including;Titus Oates (1649-1705), ‘the biggest liar in Christendom’,  Sir Jeffrey Hudson (1619-82), ‘the shortest knight in history’Lord Lonsdale (1857-1944), the ‘Yellow Earl’We also hear about Oakham's famous castle, it's court, (the oldest in the country) and we discover the town's macabre history which include a visit to the stocks and gallows.Join us on this live walkabout interview on a cold but bright February morning which ends by the fireside in one of the town's finest pubs!For more information please see below;Bill can be contacted @ williamcunninghammobile@gmail.comhttps://www.thestamfordtownguidedtours.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/groups/408182023445227/https://www.instagram.com/williamdavidcunningham/?hl=enQuestion or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com

Today's show features the legendary Gary Moat who was best known as the drummer in the famous 1980s rock band Heavy Pettin.’  The band toured alongside Kiss, Ozzy Osbourne, Magnum and many more.Today Gary is the lead singer,  frontman and musical creator for rock band, Burnt out Wreck. Gary talks about his lifelong passion for music, how he started playing drums, his life in Heavy Pettin' and 'Burnt Out Wreck' the band he created in 2016.I would describe Burnt Out Wreck's music as unpretentious classic hard rock but with a raw freshness.If you haven't heard the band yet and like bands such as AC/DC  listen to the 3 albums,  'Swallow' 2017,  'This is Hell' 2019 and 2022's 'Stand and Fight.'I was introduced to the band earlier this year and it didn't take me long to get to know the songs and enjoy the cool guitar riffs and subtly clever song lyrics.Enjoy the episode!Gary's links;https://www.facebook.com/BurntOutWreckhttps://www.burntoutwreck.com/Question or comment? Send us a text message.www.undercurrentstories.com