We’re delighted to return to the Smoke Hole Sessions with a LIVE recording with Martin Shaw.  To celebrate the paperback release of Smoke Hole, Martin tells one of the three ancient stories from the book to a live audience at London’s iconic Conway Hall. He also reflects on how the book has shaped his journey in the years since it was published and why this robust little book has stood the test of time.  Get 30% off Martin’s new paperback Smoke Hole at chelseagreen.co.uk using the code SHS30  Find Martin Shaw on Insta @drmartinshaw; Facebook @Martin Shaw; https://drmartinshaw.com Find out more about Conway Hall at www.conwayhall.org.uk A huge thanks to Ben Addicott for helping to produce this podcast Violin music by John Matthias Smoke Hole: Looking to the Wild in the Time of the Spyglass is published by Chelsea Green Publishing UK.

In the season 1 finale of the Smoke Hole Sessions, Martin talks to music legend and icon, John Densmore, drummer for one of the greatest bands of all time: The Doors. They dive into the last year and the publication of John’s new book The Seekers, where he pays homage to artists that have fed his creativity over a lifetime. They discuss their own encounters with musicians and artists of all sorts, including when John ran into Bob Dylan, lost on his way to The Doors’ induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They dive into Martin’s latest book Smoke Hole, and how the story of the Handless Maiden, who has to ‘grow her hands back’, is the perfect metaphor for coming out of the pandemic and greeting the world again. Get 30% off Martin’s new book Smoke Hole at chelseagreen.co.uk using the code SHS30  Find Martin Shaw on Insta @drmartinshaw; Facebook @Martin Shaw; https://drmartinshaw.com Find John Densmore on Twitter @JohnDensmore; Facebook @John Densmore; https://johndensmore.com/ A huge thanks to Ben Addicott for helping to produce this podcast Violin music by John Matthias Smoke Hole: Looking to the Wild in the Time of the Spyglass is published by Chelsea Green Publishing UK.

In the next episode of the Smoke Hole Sessions, Martin Shaw chats with Bat for Lashes singer songwriter and musician, Natasha Khan. Natasha talks about her move from the UK to California four years ago and her evolution as a mystic artist, explorer and new mother. They discuss the joys of parenthood and how the experience of sharing art, be it music or mythology, is changing as the world slowly emerges from the pandemic that has gripped it. Get 30% off Martin’s new book Smoke Hole at chelseagreen.co.uk using the code SHS30 Find Martin Shaw on Insta @drmartinshaw; Facebook @Martin Shaw; drmartinshaw.com Find Natasha Khan on Twitter @BatForLashes; Insta @batforlashes and check out her Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/batforlashes A huge thanks to Ben Addicott for helping to produce this podcast. Violin music by John Matthias Smoke Hole: Looking to the Wild in the Time of the Spyglass is published by Chelsea Green Publishing UK.

EP 7: Preparing the Grail features Sir Mark Rylance, an Academy Award-winning actor. The episode covers a range of captivating topics including global shutdowns, Shakespeare, loss, interconnectedness of life, happy accidents in art, craft, wetlands, growing older, and breaking into the Globe. Sir Mark shares his passion for wetlands while Martin talks about the deliciousness of growing older and the benefits of losing memories as you age. A memorable and entertaining conversation that you won't want to miss.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Rabbi Ariel Burger, an expert in conflict resolution and author of "Witness, Lessons from Elie Wiesel's Classroom," emphasizes the wisdom found in Jewish mysticism. He explores how ancient stories can guide us in addressing current societal issues. Ariel encourages listeners to assess whether what they read in the news supports peacemaking efforts, particularly in the context of Gaza. He also reflects on the interconnection between art, community, and creativity, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling.

Join John Mitchinson, a celebrated publisher and co-host of the Backlisted podcast, as he shares his profound affinity for books. He discusses the magic of storytelling, the transformative power of literature in personal growth, and his unique publishing journey. Highlighting how books connect us all, John reflects on pivotal literary moments that shaped his life. Delve into the emotional impact of literature, including navigating childhood trauma and finding solace in nature, making this a must-listen for every book lover!

Join Jan Blake, a renowned storyteller with over 25 years of global experience, as she shares her journey from Manchester to the world stage. She delves into the profound responsibility of storytelling, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. Jan and Martin discuss the nuances of becoming a true storyteller and the significance of cultural narratives. They also explore spontaneous storytelling's connection to creativity, engagement techniques in teaching, and how these elements transform identity and heritage.

In this engaging conversation, Tommy Tiernan, an acclaimed Irish comedian known for his improvisational style, joins Martin Shaw to explore the profound impact of storytelling on healing after the pandemic. They share reflections on creativity during lockdown and the challenges of returning to audiences. Tommy narrates a gripping personal tale from Newark Airport that reveals resilience and humor. The duo also dives into themes of identity and cultural heritage, emphasizing the power of stories in connecting with one’s roots.

Author David Keenan and Martin Shaw are true kindred spirits. Steeped in the music scene as a journalist and drummer respectively, their experiences have many magical parallels that they explore in this engrossing meeting of minds. From punk rock to poetry, they discuss writing, art and music, cultural amnesia and sonic spirituality. Dive in. Get 30% off Martin’s new book Smoke Hole at chelseagreen.co.uk using the code SHS30 Find Martin Shaw on insta @drmartinshaw; facebook @Martin Shaw; www.drmartinshaw.com Follow David Keenan on twitter @reversediorama A huge thanks to Ben Addicott for helping to produce this podcast Violin music by John Matthias Smoke Hole is published by Chelsea Green Publishing UK

Jay Griffiths, an acclaimed author known for her powerful works on nature and activism, joins Martin Shaw for a captivating conversation. They reminisce about the solitude of lockdown and how melancholy can lead us to greater compassion. Griffiths shares insights from her new book, exploring creativity birthed from personal adversity. They discuss the importance of rebellion against climate apathy, and embark on a whimsical journey through storytelling, revealing the humor and magic found in unexpected places.