Undercurrent Stories

This episode features Ian Hatton, English guitarist and former member of the hard rock band Bonham.
Our conversation starts with the story about the foundation of the band in 1988 with Jason Bonham, son of the late Led Zeppelin drummer, John Bonham.
We discuss Ian's journey into composing for TV and film scores and we learn what it was like playing alongside Paul Rodgers, Jeff Back, Brian May and many more rock icons.
The episode concludes with a deep dive into Ian's latest project, Old Glenham Brewery. Producing British cask ales for the American market Ian talks about the inspiration for producing UK style beer as he reminisces about living in the UK and his eventual move to the USA.
Ian's links:

https://www.ianhatton.com/

https://www.oldglenhambrewery.com/

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Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

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In this episode we explore the rich cultural and social landscape of the Edwardian era with historian Alwyn Turner, author of Little Englanders: Britain in the Edwardian Era. From the legacy of Edward VII to the early days of tabloids and the impact of emerging technologies, Alwyn shares insights into how the period shaped modern Britain.

Key Topics:

• The Edwardian Age Defined: What years the era covered and how Edward VII’s reign reflected societal change.
• Public Perceptions of Edward VII: How he was viewed compared to Queen Victoria.
• The Rise of the Labour Party and Political Shifts: How early welfare reforms laid the groundwork for the modern state.
• The Influence of Early Tabloids: How The Daily Mail revolutionised news consumption and democracy.
• Entertainment & Pop Culture: Freak shows, music halls, and the Fat Boy of Peckham's fame.
• Technological Innovations: The impact of cars, telephones, and aviation on everyday life.
• Shifting Social Values: The loosening of Victorian morals and recurring cultural cycles.

Memorable Moments:

• Oscar Wilde’s Lasting Influence: How Wilde’s trial changed male social behaviour.
• Horatio Bottomley’s Rise and Fall: The charismatic fraudster who inspired Toad of Toad Hall.
• Marie Lloyd’s Legacy: Celebrating Britain’s greatest female entertainer.

About Our Guest:

Alwyn Turner is a senior lecturer in history at the University of Chichester. His research delves into the interplay between culture, politics, and society in 20th-century Britain. His book, Little Englanders, offers a colorful exploration of the Edwardian era.

Where to Find Alwyn’s Work:

• Little Englanders: Britain in the Edwardian Era
• http://www.alwynwturner.com/

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Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

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In this episode we dive into the transformative journey of Steve Hoffman, author of 'A Season for That'. Have you ever dreamed of leaving everything behind and starting fresh in a new country? Steve did just that when he and his family left their life in Minnesota to embrace the rural charm of a small village in southern France.
Steve shares the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, the unexpected lessons learned, and the profound impact it had on his family. We explore how living in France changed Steve's perspective on life, food, and the importance of slowing down. From navigating new customs to discovering the power of local food and wine, this episode is full of insights and inspiration for anyone looking to reinvent their lives or simply find more meaning in everyday moments.
In this episode we talk about:
- How moving to a new country can transform your outlook on life.
- The importance of embracing challenges and stepping out of your comfort zone.
- Insights into the French way of life: from the deep appreciation of food and wine to the art of slowing down.
- How to cultivate joy and fulfillment through cultural immersion.
- Practical tips for those considering a similar life-changing adventure.
About Our Guest:
Steve Hoffman is a Minnesota tax preparer and food writer as well as a French speaker and shameless Francophile. His writing has won multiple awards including the James Beard M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writer Award. He has been published in Food and Wine, The Washington Post and many other publications.
His first book, 'A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France was published in July 2024.
Resources Mentioned:
Steve's website https://www.sjrhoffman.com/ Explore more about Steve’s journey, his writing, and his book.
'A Season for That' – Available at all major bookstores and online. Also available in audiobook format, narrated by Steve himself.
Follow Steve Hoffman:
- Instagram
- Facebook
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories and guests to your ears!
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- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

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www.undercurrentstories.com

In this insightful episode I sit down with with Toby Mildon, an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Architect and founder of Mildon, a consultancy specialising in creating inclusive workplaces. Toby shares his journey from IT consulting and healthcare technology to becoming a full-time EDI professional at the BBC and eventually founding his own consultancy. Drawing from personal experience and professional expertise, Toby discusses the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the workplace and beyond.
Key Topics Discussed:
1. Toby's Journey into EDI: Toby shares how his career began in technology before transitioning into diversity and inclusion roles at the BBC. He discusses how his own experiences as a person with a disability shaped his understanding of inclusion.
2. Understanding Diversity and Inclusion: Toby explains the fundamental differences between diversity and inclusion, emphasising that everyone is diverse and that true inclusion is about creating a sense of belonging in the workplace.
3. Challenges and Misconceptions in EDI: Toby dispels common myths about diversity and inclusion, such as the idea that diversity only pertains to specific groups or characteristics. He also discusses the pitfalls of using diversity targets and the potential for these to drive the wrong behaviors.
4. Strategies for Implementing EDI in Organizations: Toby outlines his approach to helping companies develop effective EDI strategies, using data and insights to create tailored action plans. He provides examples of how he has worked with clients like the NHS, Centrica, and Sony to foster inclusive environments.
5. The Role of Unconscious Bias: Toby talks about the importance of understanding and addressing unconscious biases in both professional and personal contexts, sharing his own surprising experiences with bias.
6. Practical Steps for Building Inclusivity: Toby introduces his latest book, Building Inclusivity, which provides practical guidance on implementing EDI strategies. He also shares tips for HR managers and individuals looking to build a career in EDI.
7. Impact of EDI on Business Growth: Toby discusses the tangible benefits of implementing EDI strategies, including increased employee engagement, reduced turnover, and improved profitability, supported by research from McKinsey and others.
Additional Resources:
- Visit Toby Mildon's website at https://www.mildon.co.uk/ for more information on his work, books, and resources.
- Connect with Toby on LinkedIn for updates and insights on EDI.
- Check out Toby's podcast, Inclusive Growth Show, where he interviews various experts and business leaders about diversity and inclusion topics.
- https://dileaders.com/ A free online community for all interested parties keen to accelerate EDI in workplaces
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to *Undercurrent Stories* for more insightful conversations with fascinating guests.
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

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www.undercurrentstories.com

In this episode we meet broadcasting legend Nick Bailey, who shares his remarkable journey from pirate radio with Radio Caroline to becoming the first voice on Classic FM.
Nick shares his adventures and travels around the world living and working in countries such as Australia, Germany and Hong Kong and we hear stories about some amazing characters on his journey. We get an insight into world events through the eyes of a traveller. Living on Gibraltar in the time when Franco's dictatorship was at its height through to the changes that were happening in Hong Kong as it was taken back by China.
Nick also provides valuable advice for aspiring broadcasters and shares his future plans.
I can thoroughly recommend Nick's book, 'Across the Waves: From Radio Caroline to Classic FM.' In fact I couldn't put the book down and read in 5 days!
For my review of the book click here.
Highlights

• Nick Bailey was the first voice on Classic FM.
• Pirate radio played a crucial role in changing British music.
• He emphasises the importance of authenticity in broadcasting.
• Nick's experiences in Hong Kong shaped his views on free speech.
• He believes that modern presenters have less freedom than before.
• Nick encourages aspiring broadcasters to volunteer and gain experience.
• Travelling for work offers a more authentic experience than tourism.

Links:
Nick's website - https://www.nickbaileyradio.com/
To purchase book, (click link) - 'Across the Waves: From Radio Caroline to Classic FM'
Connect with Undercurrent Stories:
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstories
Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020

Question or comment? Send us a text message.

www.undercurrentstories.com