Just Passing Through Podcast

Episode 135

Death,Fights,Flights,Passing Tests,Starting Afresh.

On February 28th, amidst the chaos of life's unpredictability, a peculiar phenomenon occurs. It's as if the universe conspires to sprinkle a bit of magic into the air, weaving moments of serendipity and joy into the fabric of the day. For me, February 28th isn't just a date on the calendar; it's a beacon of hope, a reminder that amidst life's twists and turns, good things still find their way to me.

Perhaps it's the universe's way of balancing the scales, granting a reprieve from the ordinary and showering me with unexpected blessings. From chance encounters that blossom into lifelong friendships to opportunities that unfold like petals on a flower, February 28th has become a harbinger of positivity in my life.

Sure, there have been days filled with challenges and setbacks, but on February 28th, those troubles seem to fade into the background, overshadowed by the brightness of the good fortune that comes my way. It's a day to celebrate the little victories, to cherish the moments of joy, and to marvel at the wonder of life's mysteries.

Music:

The Black Keys - Hi/Lo
Foo Fighters - These Days

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Episode 134

Like a rare breed of confidence, rocking a face that's as unpredictable as a pair of bad tits.It's like my face decided to rebel against the laws of gravity and embrace its own unique shape, just to keep things interesting.

While Hollywood's leading men are busy perfecting their chiseled jawlines, lm out there flaunting a face that's as rebellious as a rockstar at a classical concert. Who needs symmetrical features when you've got character, right?

So while those celebs are going under the knife to fix every little imperfection, lm proudly sporting a face that's as unapologetically flawed as a Picasso painting. Because let's face it, perfection is overrated, and we,my friends, are the epitome of authenticity!

Music:
Arctic Monkeys - I Bet That You Look Good On The Dance Floor
Suede - Beautiful Ones

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Episode 133

So, you know you've officially hit empty nest status when your house starts echoing your thoughts louder than your own voice. It's like you've upgraded from a bustling family home to a quiet monastery overnight. You find yourself walking around, marveling at the newfound peace, only to realize it's just you and the tumbleweeds having a party.

You start getting overly excited about things like reclaiming the remote control without a wrestling match or discovering that your grocery bill has magically shrunk to a fraction of its former self. And don't even get me started on the newfound ability to actually hear yourself think in the morning – it's like a symphony of silence.

But then, just as you're reveling in your newfound freedom, you stumble upon that stack of baby pictures and suddenly find yourself drowning in a sea of nostalgia and empty tissue boxes. You start to miss the chaos, the laughter, and even the occasional temper tantrum. Who knew you'd actually long for the days when your living room doubled as a LEGO minefield?

But fear not, fellow empty nesters, for this is just the beginning of a new chapter filled with spontaneous adventures, impromptu naked dance parties, and finally having the time to pursue that hobby you've been putting off since, well, forever. So, embrace the empty nest – it might just be the best thing that ever happened to your sanity.OR NOT.

You JPTers make me smile downloads through the roof,cooking he in Japan.
Thank you all,

Darren.

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EPISODE 132

In the clandestine underbelly of Japan's history, there exists an elusive figure named Satoshi Kirishima, a man who has spent five decades living in the shadows, leaving no tales in his wake. His life, a covert odyssey, unfolds far from the prying eyes of the law, an enigma hidden in the intricate folds of society.

Satoshi is a master of anonymity, a living whisper in the crowded streets of urban Japan and the quiet corners of rural landscapes. For fifty years, he has artfully sidestepped the relentless pursuit of the authorities, leaving behind no traces of his existence. A phantom who walks among us, Satoshi's survival hinges on an innate ability to blend seamlessly into the background.

His motives, concealed in the recesses of his silent journey, remain unknown. Was Satoshi a fugitive from justice, or a soul escaping the shackles of a life left behind? The absence of tales, of stories passed down through the generations, only deepens the mystery surrounding this man who lived beneath the radar.

While the authorities grapple with the challenge of capturing a man who leaves no footprints, Satoshi's legacy becomes one of silent defiance. His existence challenges the very concept of surveillance and control, a testament to the human capacity to evade and adapt.

In the annals of fugitive history, Satoshi's name may never be etched in headlines, and his tales may never be told. Yet, the absence of stories becomes a story in itself, a narrative woven from the threads of unseen lives and silent escapes, where a man named Satoshi existed on the fringes, leaving behind only the lingering question: who was he, and where did he go?

Music:

Lynyrd Skynyrd - Free Bird
Wings - Band on the Run

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Episode 131

Your friendly guide through the highs, lows, and unexpected bends of living beyond borders. In this episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty – the sacrifices, the gains, and the tough decisions that sneak up on you.

Picture this: you've taken the plunge, left friends behind, tightened the budget, and embraced a life that promises better days. It's a journey filled with growth, but let's talk about the unspoken truths. Saying goodbye to the familiar, hunkering down to save money – it's part of the expat package. And yes, life gets better, but it comes with its own set of challenges.

Fast forward a few years, and here's where the plot thickens. Parents get ill, and you find yourself on the other side of the world. What do you do? It's a dilemma that many expats eventually face. In this episode, we'll explore the emotional tug-of-war, the choices that weigh heavy on your heart, and the reality of being far from loved ones during challenging times.

Join me for a listen that balances the excitement of expat life with a dose of reality. I'll share stories as I navigate through the complexities of sacrifice, success, and the unexpected turns that make our expat narratives uniquely ours.

So, grab your headphones, tune in, and let's unravel the layers of expat life – the sacrifices made, the joys gained, and the resilience needed when life takes an unexpected turn.

Darren

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Episode 130

5:30 am at an airport bar – a time when even the coffee looks at you and says, "Amateur hour, mate." It's like a scene from a twisted comedy, where weary travelers are torn between the existential crisis of ordering a pint or pretending they're responsible adults with a cup of tea. The bar becomes a stage for jet-lagged performers, attempting to turn their drunken fellow travelers  into dance partners. And don't even get me started on the breakfast menu; it's like a culinary interpretation of regret. You've got folks doing the airport limbo – how low can you go?It's a symphony of sleep-deprived souls, clinging to their pints like they're life rafts in the sea of early morning chaos. Ah, the airport bar at dawn, where the only thing taking off faster than the planes is your the fat girls knickers on the next table and your sense of decency. Cheers to the blurry line between a nightcap and the first sip of morning madness!

You people we are at 130!!!!
Thank you for sticking with me,pass it on,download and lll keep doing what lm doing.

Darren.

Music:

Status Quo - Paper Planes
MIA - Paper Planes

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Episode 129

In the nostalgic maze of holiday comparisons, the generation gap is a Grand Canyon. My holidays, back in the day, started with the delightful symphony of Mum peeing in a plastic bucket. It was my version of a morning alarm, a less-than-soothing wake-up call to the fragrant reality of life. Now, fast-forward to the offspring's adventures—they're globe-trotting, sampling exotic cuisines that has envy-inducing Instagram influencers going crazy.Yet, amidst the cultural odysseys, one common thread binds us: boredom. We share this yawn-inducing, universal sentiment, separated by four decades but united by a collective eye-roll at holiday monotony. The scenery has changed from the plastic bucket to passport stamps, but the essence remains. So, whether it's deciphering the nuances of ancient civilizations or decoding Mum's morning bucket ballet, the boredom transcends time, creating a peculiar bond across the generations. Welcome to the holiday continuum, where the only thing that doesn't age is the relentless pursuit of excitement to fend off the drowsy embrace of boredom.

Keep on downloading people.

Happy 2024.

Darren.

Music : 
The Sonics - Have Love Will Travel
Credence Clearwater Revival - Have You Ever Seen the Rain?

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Episode 128.

It's a common challenge that many expats face. When you return home, people may have certain expectations or perceptions based on the person they remember, not necessarily the individual you've become during your time abroad. This contrast can indeed lead to friction, as they may project unfulfilled aspirations onto you.

Explaining this to others can help them understand the complexity of the expat experience and the personal growth that comes with it. It's an opportunity to highlight the importance of accepting change, both in yourself and in others, as everyone's journey is unique. Acknowledging these differences can pave the way for more genuine connections and understanding.

Or you can just tell everyone to F**k Off.

Happy 2024,folks,

Darren.

Music:
 Carte Postale  - Slove
Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd.

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Episode 127

Picture a North England Christmas where the festive cheer turns into an alcohol fueled dark dark comedy. Family feuds echo like carolers on a sugar rush, overindulgence in booze,spirits and food transforms the living room into modern day Gaza, and the aftermath resembles a battlefield of empty bottles,sick buckets and self inflicted liquid wounds. Amidst the chaos, a young kid observes the adult drama, trying to decipher the blend of holiday spirit and intoxication, perhaps forming a childhood memory that can never,ever be erased.

The Pogues - Fairytale of New York
The Pretenders - 2000 Miles

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Episode 127

'Tis the season to be jolly, or so they say. But for me, it's the season to plug my ears and run for cover. Why, you ask? Because of those relentless, earworm-infested Xmas songs that invade the airwaves like a festive plague.

You see, I've declared a personal war on these jingling, sleigh bell-ringing, repetitive pieces of auditory torture. It's not that I'm a Scrooge; I just value my sanity. The constant barrage of "Jingle Bells" and "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is enough to make me want to hibernate until January.

So, I've instituted a strict ban on Xmas songs within the confines of my ears. My headphones are now equipped with an anti-Christmas-song force field, and I've mastered the art of the preemptive "la la la" to drown out any unsuspecting carolers.

I've even considered starting a support group for fellow sufferers of this holiday melody madness. We'd meet in soundproof bunkers, armed with noise-canceling headphones and survival kits filled with chocolate and funny cat videos.

Now, don't get me wrong; I'm not against celebrating the holiday spirit. I just believe it can be done without subjecting ourselves to the same playlist of cheer-induced madness year after year. Imagine a world where "Last Christmas" isn't the soundtrack to every shopping trip or elevator ride.

So, as the first notes of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" ring out, I'll be donning my earmuffs and retreating to the safety of my Xmas song-free zone. Call me the Scrooge of sleigh bells—I wear this title with pride. After all, 'tis the season to be sane.

So here are some of my best old and new,but certainly not festive.

Like and subscribe and Fuck Xmas.

Manchester Ochestra - The Silence
Noel Gallagher - Council Skies
Sean McGowan and the Dubliners - The Irish Rover
Elbow - Grounds for Divorce
James Brown - Superbad

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Episode 126

Ah, Kamakura, my stomping ground, where ancient temples and train rides become the everyday spectacle! So, I'm schlepping my mate around, you know, the casual tour of awesomeness.

We start with Engaku-ji, and my friend's gob is not just smacked; it's doing a full-on gymnastics routine. She's got this look like she just discovered sushi for the first time. Meanwhile, I'm over here like, "Yeah, just another day with the Buddha vibes."

We stroll around the Daibutsu, and I'm narrating like an ancient history professor who moonlights as a stand-up comedian. "So, this colossal dude, big enough to make Goliath question his life choices, has been chilling here since way back when. No biggie.

As we alight at Hase, she's still buzzing with excitement. "This place is incredible!" she says. I smirk, "Yeah, tell that to the Daibutsu. He's been standing there, unimpressed, for centuries."

Then comes the Enoden line. I see her eyes light up as the train approaches. She's snapping pictures like it's a Hollywood red carpet event.

And that, my friends, is how Kamakura, the living museum I call home, transforms a casual stroll into a gobsmacking, eye-popping, Enoden-riding adventure. Just another day in the historical wonderland – where every temple is a gem, and every train ride is a trip through time. Cheers to Kamakura, where even the everyday is extraordinary!

Great day with a great mate,

Keep uploading,folks.

Darren.

Noel Gallagher High Flying Birds - AKA What  A Life
Oasis - The Masterplan

Sharon Latham
https://www.instagram.com/selfieguideshaz?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Bourdain on Lawson https://youtu.be/v1LOiRfMc08?si=a_baoUo6DTmcANmd

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Episode 125

Ah, the summer of '96, where England's hopes soared, Terry Venables was the maestro of our football dreams, and penalties felt like an English rite of passage – albeit a painful one.

Picture this: Gazza's iconic dentist chair celebration, the Three Lions anthem blasting from every corner, and Terry Venables orchestrating a symphony of soccer brilliance that had us all thinking, "Football's coming home!" Spoiler alert: it took a detour at penalties, but what a ride!

And the music, oh, the soundtrack of that summer! Oasis belting out "Don't Look Back in Anger" as if they knew we'd be reminiscing about '96 forever. Britpop anthems, Spice Girls taking over, and every radio station playing Baddiel, Skinner, and the Lightning Seeds on repeat.

As for the weather, a miracle unfolded – not a drop of rain in June, July, and August. It was like the universe decided to give England a break and let us enjoy our Carlsberg in peace.

And let's not forget the movies – Trainspotting  and who could resist the charm of Hugh Grant in "Four Weddings and a Funeral"?

So here's to the summer of '96 – where football dreams soared, music rocked, the sun shone, and penalties left us with a lifetime of banter. Terry Venables, you led us on a rollercoaster, and we wouldn't have had it any other way. Cheers to the summer that made us laugh, cry, and sing our hearts out – all in the name of England.

Music:
Jesus Christ - The Longpigs
Three Lions - Skinner and Baddiel
C’mon Kids - The Boo Radleys

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Episode 124

In the cosmic dance of life and death, Westerners seem to have a jittery two-step while the Japanese are waltzing through with a serene bow. Picture this: In the West, we're busy avoiding black cats, stepping on sidewalk cracks, and crossing our fingers like it's a full-time job just to dodge the inevitable.

Meanwhile, the Japanese are hosting cherry blossom viewings in cemeteries, celebrating ancestors with festivals, and turning graveyards into peaceful gardens. It's like they've thrown a cosmic party, and everyone is invited – living or not.

Maybe it's cultural, perhaps it's a societal thing, but one thing's for sure: when it comes to death, the Japanese are having a calm cup of matcha while Westerners are spilling their coffee in existential panic. So, whether you're fearing the reaper or sipping tea with him, just remember, in the grand scheme of things, we're all just stardust on a collision course with the great unknown – and the Japanese seem to have RSVP'd with a tranquil smile.

Keep on downloading,folks.

Music:
Credence Clearwater Revival - Midnight Special
Eagles of Death Metal - Don’t Speak

Darren.

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Episode 123

"Ah, Yorkshire folks – the unsung heroes of humor, tea, and hearty conversations. Picture this: you stroll into a Yorkshire home, and before you know it, you've been offered a cuppa, engaged in banter about the weather (because, let's face it, it's always a topic), and found yourself wrapped in a warm blanket of that unmistakable Yorkshire wit.

These are the people who turn 'owt' into a versatile word that can mean anything from 'something' to 'nothing,' leaving you both enlightened and slightly confused. Their accents could charm the socks off a cat, and their dry humor could put any stand-up comedian to shame.

In Yorkshire, a smile says more than words ever could, and a raised eyebrow is practically a Shakespearean monologue. So, if you find yourself in the company of a Yorkshireman or woman, brace yourself for a delightful dose of banter, a proper brew, and a lesson in wit that will leave you chuckling long after you've bid farewell to 'God's Own County.'

Music All Proper Yorkshire!!!
Pulp - Common People
Terrorvision - My House
The Cult - She Sells Santuary
Moloko - Time is Right
The Music - Freedom Fighter
Arctic Monkeys - l Bet you Look Good on the Dancefloor
Arctic Monkeys - When the Sun Goes Down
Arctic Monkeys - From the Ritz to the Rubble

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Episode 112

From the bustling streets of Taipei to family-friendly adventures in the heart of Taiwan, l have to make sure that this holiday season is packed with laughter, cultural exploration, and the joy of shared experiences. Navigating night markets, embracing local traditions, and discovering the hidden gems of Taiwan, the journey promises to be a blend of luxury and the warmth of family togetherness.

None of the above will happen as l try to do it as Yorkshire cheap as possible.

Music:
The Boss -Born to Run
Supergrass -Moving

Enjoy my lovelies,

Darren

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Episode 121

He shoots the doctor and patient in the hospital,makes his escape on a motorbike.Enters a post office to the North of Tokyo,taking hostages,holds off a squad of armed police officers for a few hours.And the most surprising part of this story is he’s in his 80s.
You see l told you these Asian grey heads were healthy!!!!

Music: 
Paper Planes - MIA
Welcome to the Jungle - Guns n Roses

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Darren.

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Episode 120

Hey folks, I wanted to share a cautionary message regarding recent incidents involving a YouTuber in Japan. It's important to remember that when we visit another country, we should always respect local laws and customs. Not paying for train and bus tickets or running out on restaurant bills isn't just unethical, it's illegal.

Japan is a country with a strong sense of responsibility and integrity. Such actions can have consequences, and justice here is swift. Let's make sure that when we travel, we leave a positive impression and follow the rules. 

Or the Japanese will start to fk you up like a an airport security guard would at Glasgow airport if you were on fire.

Darren.

Music:
Get Myself Arrested 〜Gomez
Freeloader 〜R.F.Tres

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Episode 119 

My podcast hosting site Buzzsprout in their infinite wisdom have decided to give me extra minutes each month as in recent months the downloads have been climbing,so if they stick with this plan of giving me extra time lm going to put out some music episodes as l need at least a week to think about what the hell lm am going to talk about.So this episode we have 4 tracks that will be doing the heavy lifting this week and helping me out.

So sit back and enjoy the fact lm not speaking so much.

Music:
Big Brother and the Moving Company - Piece of my Love
Nirvana - All Apologies
The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Crosstown Traffic
Amy Winehouse - Valerie

Keep on a downloading,

Darren.

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Episode 118

Imagine taking a journey from Japan to the UK, and you'd think you've entered two different dimensions of efficiency and charm.

Trains: In Japan, the train system is like a well-choreographed ballet. Trains glide into stations with the precision of a Swiss watch, and you could set your watch by their departure times. It's almost as if they time-travel from one station to another. Now, hop on a train in the UK, and it's like embarking on a whimsical adventure. Delays are part of the package, and you might as well bring a deck of cards for those unexpected layovers.

Clean Streets: Stroll through the streets of Japan, and you'll be amazed by the cleanliness. It's as if the entire country is under the spell of an invisible but obsessive cleaner. You can eat your sushi off the sidewalk without a second thought (though, honestly, that's a bit extreme). The UK streets, on the other hand, can resemble a treasure hunt for litter. Bins are like rare Pokémon – you might stumble upon one after a long search, and the hunt can be surprisingly entertaining.

Customer Service: In Japan, customer service is a true art form. You're treated like royalty; they'll bow so much you'll think they're auditioning for a breakdance crew. It's like every shopkeeper is your personal concierge. Now, in the UK, it's a bit more like having a chat with your friendly bartender. No bows, but you might get a clever joke or a solid pub recommendation.

So, there you have it, a whimsical journey through the efficiency of Japan compared to the UK, where each country offers its unique blend of quirks and charms. 🚄🌧️🍻

Watch on You Tube right here: https://youtu.be/wGU2TyyEXa8?si=2Y2u6qiI6wp5vg5r

Music :

Taking Care of Business - Bachman Turner Overdrive
Living Thing - ELO

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Episode 117.

Ah, the infamous "one meal a day" fast, where you start your day feeling like you could conquer mountains but then find yourself daydreaming about food from 2 PM onwards, all leading up to the grand feast at 7 PM. If life were a sitcom, this would be the hilarious plot twist that keeps you glued to the screen.

Picture this: You wake up, feeling like you've had a full Thanksgiving dinner while you slept, and you're on a mission to survive the day without turning into a culinary detective, trying to sniff out snacks and treats. You channel your inner Zen master, convincing yourself that fasting is an art form. But let's be real, it's more like that art project you did in kindergarten - messy and confusing.

As the clock ticks towards 2 PM, your thoughts become a food parade, and your stomach sounds like a marching band at a hunger protest. You navigate a minefield of food ads, coworkers offering snacks, and the scent of someone microwaving leftover pizza. Your phone becomes a torture device, with every foodie influencer posting mouthwatering pics that feel like a personal attack.

Then, finally, the moment arrives. The one hour to rule them all! You dive into your meal like it's a championship eating contest. Forks are flying, food's disappearing at warp speed, and you're in a race against your own hunger.

But here's the twist – you're convinced that eating like this makes you a culinary superhero. You've got the theme music playing in your head as you conquer your plate. And when the hour's up, you retreat, victorious yet stuffed, knowing that tomorrow, the battle (and the comedy) will begin anew.

So, there you have it, the "one meal a day" fast, where you're both the star and the punchline of this daily foodie sitcom. Keep on fasting and feasting, my friend! 🍔🕒😅

Music: 
Foo Fighters - The Feast and the Famine
Radiohead - Bones

Keep on keeping on,

Darren.

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