As the Season Turns

For February's Found Sound, Alice meets wood artist Darren Appiagyei in Greenwich Park in south-east London, before heading to his studio to learn more about his wood turning practice. In the background, you’ll hear chirping parakeets, the rumble of traffic and the occasional plane overhead, all of which are part of the sonic tapestry of this urban landscape. This episode was produced by musician and sound artist Alice Boyd, featuring music by herself and Sam Lee. Thanks go to Darren Appiagyei - you can see his work at Somerset House in London from 28 February to 1 March as part of Collect Open. 'Found Sounds' are back for 2025 with another twelve episodes, each released on the middle Friday of the month. This year, Alice will be travelling across the UK to meet people inspired by heritage crafts, folklore and the landscape, creating a sonic scrapbook of their practice. 'As the Season Turns' is a podcast created by Ffern in collaboration with Lia Leendertz. Each episode, released on the first of the month, is a guide to what to look out for in the month ahead - from the sky above to the land below. Found Sounds are released on the middle Friday of the month. Ffern is an organic fragrance maker based in Somerset. You can learn more about Ffern's seasonal eau de parfum at ffern.co

In February, Sam Lee breathes new life into the traditional ballad 'Oakham Poachers.' Listeners dive into mistletoe folklore while exploring the art of foraging, including the charming jack by the hedge. The month reveals a striped-faced mammal with a big personality. Lia recounts a captivating Norse tale about love and jealousy. There's also a focus on February's unique festival of Imbolc, with a heartwarming look at clouty trees for wish-making, blending nature's rhythms with cultural traditions.

Morvern Graham, a Scottish-Scandinavian illustrator, printmaker, and storyteller, takes listeners on an artistic adventure along the East Scottish coast. She shares her deep connection with the sea and how it inspires her creative process. Graham discusses the enchanting folklore character, Shellycoat, and the role of natural materials in her printmaking. The conversation also reflects on the balance of productivity and introspection in January while celebrating the beauty of nature's rhythms and imperfections, inspiring a more compassionate approach to the new year.

Discover the enchanting world of January with original music from Sam Lee, crafted just for this month. Explore the whimsical quest for jelly ear fungus and delve into the rich folklore surrounding winter's heartache. Uncover the cosmic dance of the cold moon while hearing tales of wassailing and the bond between two farming brothers. Unearth the origins of fragrance and its ancient rituals, showcasing the beauty of connecting with nature during this chilly season!

Journey to the ancient Stanton Drew Stone Circles reveals fascinating myths and seasonal significance. The hosts explore the connection between these megaliths and the lunar cycle, hinting at their use for predicting celestial events. Personal stories illuminate the historical context of stone circles and their role in community gatherings. December is examined through its dual nature of celebration and rest, inviting listeners to appreciate the beauty in seasonal change. Expect enchanting soundscapes and music that harmonizes with nature's rhythm.

This month's journey dives into the rich traditions of Yule and the beauty of winter woodlands. Discover the charming story of how a clever wren outsmarts an eagle in a delightful bird competition. Explore lunar phases and their festive significance, alongside creative gift ideas involving Sicilian lemons. Seasonal cooking, poetic reflections, and celestial wonders like the Geminid meteor shower paint a vivid picture of December's magic. Join in as we celebrate connections, transitions, and the cyclical nature of life.

This month, Alice is with ecological food grower, forager and cook Poppy Okotcha in her garden in Devon - where they plant beans, make compost and discuss how gardens can help us envision alternative ways of living. This episode was produced by musician and sound artist Alice Boyd, featuring music by herself and The Breath. Thanks go to Poppy Okotcha. 'As the Season Turns' is a podcast created by Ffern in collaboration with Lia Leendertz. Each episode, released on the first of the month, is a guide to what to look out for in the month ahead - from the sky above to the land below. Found Sounds are released on the middle Friday of the month. Ffern is an organic fragrance maker based in Somerset. You can learn more about Ffern's seasonal eau de parfum at ffern.co

This month's discussion dives into the rich tapestry of November traditions, from the ancient festival of Samhain to the salmon harvest celebrated by various cultures. They explore the captivating folklore around fire, including stories like the daring quest for fire led by Grandmother Spider. The haunting emotions of loss and longing for home add depth to the conversation. Musical interludes, like a moving song by The Breath, enhance the ambiance of this dark yet vibrant month filled with mystical tales and natural beauty.

Join a tranquil journey through an ancient woodland, where the beauty of autumn unfolds. Discover the intricate ecosystems as the hosts search for unique fungi hidden among fallen leaves. Delve into the art of mushroom foraging, highlighting the amethyst deceiver and sharing tips for beginners. Gain insight into the challenges of identifying edible mushrooms and the camaraderie that blossoms from shared foraging experiences. It's a celebration of nature's wonders and the connection we forge with the season.

October is prime season for mushrooms - and we find them in the ancient woodland and in fairy rings, exploring the best kinds to eat and the folklore surrounding them. We identify Heath Star Moss and hear the tale of Herne the Hunter (be warned - this tale is a little scary!), while The Breath play 'Little One', a song for autumn babies. 'As the Season Turns' is a podcast created by Ffern in collaboration with the nature writer and author of the Seasonal Almanac, Lia Leendertz. Lia is joined by novelist Zoe Gilbert and folk musicians Ríoghnach Connolly and Stuart McCallum of The Breath. Geoff Bird produces and Catriona Bolt is Ffern's in-house production coordinator. Each episode, released on the first of the month, is a guide to what to look out for in the month ahead - from the sky above to the land below. Ffern is an organic fragrance maker based in Somerset. You can learn more about Ffern's seasonal eau de parfum at ffern.co