Riding the Sonic Wave: Steven Blush on American Hardcore Punk.

When you were a child did you ever have a particular passion or interest? Did it fade away as life and making a living took over? Or is it something that you have put off and you have been meaning to get back to? 
If you would like some renewed inspiration this episode is for you! 

Welcome to a captivating exploration of the harmonious marriage of art and industry, where the rhythmic hum of machinery provides the soundtrack to the dance of watercolor. In this episode, we journey into the world of David Poxon, a maestro of the brush whose vibrant works are a testament to the unexpected beauty found in the gritty, metallic landscape of industry and agricultural machinery.

From his boyhood fascination with the rawness of his industrial surroundings, David now masterfully blends the austere beauty of machinery with the delicate nuance of watercolor. His work, an artful conduit between the severe precision of industry and the fluidity of pigment and water, invites us to explore the power of art to transform and to connect. 

We delve into the story behind his creations, the solace found in the rhythms of his brush strokes, and the strong ties that art can weave between the artist and the observer. With his journey serving as our canvas, you will hear about the sheer joy of creating something. Something that David encourages us all to experience.

The principles that David talks about can be applied to any creative pursuit whether that be art, writing, music, anything in fact!
Hope you enjoy the episode.

Bio - David Poxon is a highly sought after  international water colour artist He is an elected member of the The Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours and a signature member of the National Watercolour society of America. In addition to this  David is the organiser of the 2024 International Watercolour Masters show which takes place in Lilleshall Hall in Shropshire, England 15th - 24th May 2024.

Links:

https://internationalwatercolourmasters.com/
https://davidpoxon.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/davidpoxonwatercolours/
https://www.facebook.com/david.poxon.520

https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/

www.undercurrentstories.com

In this repeat from one of the show's most popular episodes  you are invited  to join us on a stroll down the historic lanes of Stamford, where the tales of Saxon settlers and Georgian grandeur intertwine, brought to vivid life by my guest, local historian and raconteur, Bill Cunningham. As Bill peels back the layers of time, we wander from the River Welland's influence on the town's inception to the stone-crafted beauty that defines its aesthetic today. We muse over the significance of Stamford's position on the storied route from London to York, where ancient inns like The George have quenched the thirst of travelers for a millennium, and we peek into the future with  The Mayors Guides, set to continue the tradition of sharing Stamford's historical riches.

The architectural splendour of St George's Square serves as a backdrop for tales both inspiring and sinister; it's not just a setting for period dramas but a stage where the drama of history itself unfolded. Bill shares the gripping stories of Arnold Leese, whose love for camels and fascism painted a complex portrait of Stamford's past, and Edward Edwards, whose naval legacy is forever entwined with the Bounty's mutiny. These narratives are testament to the fact that beneath the town's resplendent facade lie stories of intrigue and the human condition in all its shades.

Our journey wouldn't be complete without the chilling tales of Stamford's darker denizens, notably Thomas Bacon, whose life story reads like a Victorian gothic novel. As Bill recounts the accusations of murder and arson that followed Bacon from Stamford to London and beyond, one can't help but shiver at the grim chapters written into the town's history. Yet, the conversation isn't all gloom; we wrap up reveling in the town's architectural triumphs, void of the macabre overtones associated with characters like John George Haigh. With Bill's encyclopedic knowledge and lively banter, your appreciation for Stamford's historical and structural fabric will be irreversibly enriched.

Please note error at 17.25. Date should be 1842 not 1642.

For more information about Stamford and on Bill Cunningham please see;

https://www.thestamfordtownguidedtours.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/408182023445227/

https://www.instagram.com/williamdavidcunningham/?hl=en

This episode was recorded a few weeks before the Covid -19 Lockdown.

www.undercurrentstories.com

Have you ever looked up at the moon in the night sky and wondered why it’s there, how it was formed and  what effect it has had on us humans and animals down on Earth?
Here to answer those questions and many more I’m joined by Rebecca Boyle. Rebecca is an award winning science journalist contributing to Scientific American, The New York Times and many other publications. She is author of the book, Our Moon: A Human History. How Earth’s Celestial Companion Transformed the Planet, Guided Evolution, and Made Us Who We Are.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Our-Moon-Celestial-Companion-Transformed/dp/1529342783

Rebecca regales us with tales of the Moon's enigmatic origins and its silent yet profound influences on our planet—from the length of our days to the evolution of terrestrial life. Her book paints a stark portrait of the Moon's desolate beauty, and during our talk, she brings that imagery to life, reflecting on how this celestial body is a cornerstone of life as we know it.

The dance between Earth and its Moon is a ballet of celestial mechanics and evolutionary impulses, one that Rebecca eloquently elucidates. She shares how the Moon's elliptical orbit and slow retreat from Earth have vast repercussions, from tidal forces that may have nudged vertebrates onto land to the synchronisation challenges between lunar and solar calendars that have fascinated human cultures for millennia. Our conversation wades through the interplay of light and time, considering how this relationship might even sway the rhythms of our own biology, affecting everything from plant behavior to human health.

Our lunar odyssey concludes by casting an eye toward the future, questioning the implications of a Moon-less Earth and the current pulse of space exploration. As Rebecca and I discuss, space agencies are reigniting their lunar ambitions with programs like Artemis and international moon landings, paving the way for potential lunar tourism and the utilisation of Moon resources like water and helium-3. Yet, as we gaze ahead, we're mindful of the hurdles—environmental challenges like abrasive moon dust and the untapped mysteries of the Moon's far side. Join us to unravel these lunar enigmas and discover why our connection to the Moon is more than just a tale of tides and time, but a narrative deeply interwoven with the essence of our humanity.

Links:
https://rebeccaboyle.com/
https://www.instagram.com/by.rebecca.boyle/

https://www.undercurrentstories.com/
https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories

www.undercurrentstories.com

Embark on a captivating journey through the depths of our oceans as we uncover the hidden wonders of seaweed with Vincent Doumeizel, Senior Advisor to the United Nations Global Compact and Director of the Food Programme  for the Lloyd's Register Foundation. Prepare to have your perceptions of this oceanic flora reshaped as Vincent guides us from its role in battling global hunger to its remarkable environmental advantages. Discover how this underappreciated resource could hold the key to a sustainable future, offering nutrient-rich alternatives to traditional crops and a solution to ecological challenges. Our conversation reveals the often-overlooked potential of the ocean's flora and why it deserves a prime spot in both our diets and agricultural strategies.

As we wade deeper into the world of seaweed, we're not just talking about a plant; we're exploring an entire ecosystem's backbone that teems with life-sustaining properties. Vincent shares with us the exceptional nutritional profile of seaweed, its sustainability as a protein source, and debunks myths about its potential for toxin accumulation. We consider the environmental impact of seaweed farming, from its capacity to recapture nutrients and prevent ocean eutrophication to its role in a circular economy. This episode is an eye-opener for anyone concerned with the delicate balance of our planet's health and the quest for responsible, nutritious food sources.

Finally, we celebrate the culinary renaissance of seaweed, savouring its unique umami flavor that's making waves in the gastronomy world. From traditional dishes to avant-garde cuisine, chefs are finding innovative ways to incorporate seaweed into their menus. This episode isn't just about advocating for a sustainable food source; it's about embracing the delicious diversity of our oceans. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just beginning to navigate the seas of sustainable eating, there's a place at the table for you in the seaweed revolution. Join us for an enriching discussion that might just inspire your next meal or even a career in marine agriculture.

Links:
https://www.safeseaweedcoalition.org/
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seaweed-Revolution-Shaped-Past-Future/dp/1915643856
https://twitter.com/doumeizel?lang=en-GB


https://www.undercurrentstories.com/
https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories

www.undercurrentstories.com

Join us as we sit down with John McGlothlin, a former US Army paratrooper turned author, to discuss the invaluable lessons from his military experience that translate into everyday life. John shares his compelling personal journey from his youth, living with his grandmother, to his post-9/11 military service as an Arabic linguist, JAG officer, and eventually an adjunct professor. Listen in as we unravel the five key traits  that John has identified and cultivated throughout his career, all of which he masterfully ties into his book, "How to Deal with Damn Near Anything: The Paratrooper's Guide to Life."

Through John's captivating anecdotes, we uncover not only the strength forged in the camaraderie of a 'battle buddy' but also how military discipline can shape the way we form relationships and set boundaries in every aspect of life. From the transformative power of learning to speak up to the critical role of feedback in personal growth, John's reflections offer a blueprint for personal development that resonates beyond the military sphere.

 As we chart a course through the challenges of AI and social media's impact on today's youth, John's insights serve as a beacon, guiding us toward a more resilient and adaptable future. Don't miss this deep dive into the profound lessons that John has to offer; it might just change the way you face your daily battles.

John's links;
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmauthor/
https://www.johnmcglothlin.com/

Undercurrent Stories Links;

https://www.undercurrentstories.com/
https://open.spotify.com/show/1UVol5gkqWKltoi5PrJ4F9?si=beeaa5b354bd42f8
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/undercurrent-stories/id1508727524
https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/

www.undercurrentstories.com

Feel the rhythm of a bygone era as I sit down with the charismatic Danielz of T.Rextasy, the acclaimed and world's only officially endorsed T.Rex tribute band. In our heart-to-heart, we peel back the layers of nostalgia, tracing the influence of the legendary Marc Bolan on a generation of music enthusiasts. Danielz recounts his own transformation from a sports-loving teenager to a dedicated musician under the spell of Bolan's "Jeepster," drawing parallels to my own discovery of T-Rex's magnetic sound. We take you back to the thrill of flipping through vinyl at the record shop, where the anticipation for B-sides was as tangible as the grooves on the LPs. This is more than a chat; it's a journey through the very fibres of our musical souls.

Venture behind the studio glass with us as Danielz describes the enigmatic partnership between Marc Bolan and producer Tony Visconti, which sculpted the soundscape of T.Rex's most celebrated hits. The intricate dance of Bolan's raw energy and Visconti's meticulous craft emerges through anecdotes, like the covert tuning of a guitar or the layered genius of "Metal Guru." This episode is a treasure chest of insider tales for fans and musicians alike, brimming with the what-ifs and might-have-beens of rock history.

Closing our conversation we explore the trials and triumphs of paying tribute to T.Rex, from battling with record labels to the euphoria of planning a monumental 50-show tour. Danielz shares the essence of bringing T.Rex's hits and cherished B-sides to life on stage, ensuring every note resonates with nostalgia and authenticity. We celebrate the abiding allure of T.Rex's music as it continues to captivate fans across generations, proving that the boogie isn't just a dance—it's a legacy that keeps on grooving. Whether you're a long-time devotee or a newcomer to the cosmic energy of Bolan and T.Rex, this episode is a backstage pass to the undying spirit of glam rock.

Danielz links:
http://www.trextasy.com/
https://www.instagram.com/trextasymarcbolan/
https://www.facebook.com/t.rextasy

www.undercurrentstories.com

Join us on a journey to the heart of Ireland as we welcome the extraordinary David Keohan, better known as Indiana Stones, to share his transformation from a life of revelry to a champion in kettlebell sport and a pivotal figure in resurrecting the ancient tradition of stone lifting in Ireland. Listen in as David recounts the rigorous training, dedication, and profound personal growth he encountered on his path to success. His tale isn't just about physical strength; it's a rediscovery of a rich cultural heritage that had been lying dormant for centuries, awaiting revival by those who honour the legacy of the land.

Our conversation then takes us across the sea to Scotland, where we immerse ourselves in the history of the clach cuid fir, or manhood stones.  Hear about the emotional weight of lifting the Fianna Stone, and the broader context of standing stones and megalithic structures that dot the British Isles. These are not just stones; they are stories etched in granite, marking rites of passage and connecting us to a time when physical prowess intertwined with spiritual significance.

Finally, as we wrap up we explore the captivating search for Ireland's lifting stones, including the Limo Flautist stone, a narrative that beautifully weaves together themes of strength, memory, and the cycle of life. Celebrate with us the moment when David's quest to lift a storied stone reaches a triumphant crescendo, uniting the threads of folklore and reality in a community's embrace. David's insights leave us reflecting on the undercurrents of life, the tales that live beneath the surface, urging us to keep the spirit of these stories alive for generations to come. Don't forget to engage with our community on social media and become a part of preserving these legacies.

David's links;
https://www.instagram.com/_indiana_stones_/?hl=en
https://www.patreon.com/Irishstoneliftingandresearch

www.undercurrentstories.com

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.

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.

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/1417269125743673

Sandra's link;
https://slrostirolla.com/
https://www.instagram.com/slrostirolla/
https://www.facebook.com/SLRostirolla/
https://twitter.com/SLRostirolla
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrarostirolla/

Study Links:
https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/embargo-teenagers-ability-to-describe-negative-emotions-protects-against-depression-384462/

www.undercurrentstories.com