Podcasts about British Army

Step onto the Western Front in Flanders as we explore the area near to Ypres known as The Bluff. In this episode we uncover the story of the fighting here in February-March 1916, when British and German forces struggled for control of the high ground overlooking Ypres. Using contemporary accounts and battlefield evidence, we explain why this small rise in the landscape mattered so much and how the battle unfolded.The Bluff was created from spoil dug out during the construction of the Ypres–Comines Canal, forming an artificial ridge that dominated the surrounding trenches. In early 1916 German forces seized the position, threatening the British line south of Ypres. A determined counter-attack followed, with units of the British Army fighting bitterly through shattered woods and cratered ground to retake the heights. We look at how the battle developed, the tactics used, and the human stories behind the fighting.Walking the ground today, we visit several evocative battlefield cemeteries that still mark the front line of 1916:1st Battalion Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry Cemetery – closely linked to the men who fought and fell during the struggle for the Bluff.Hedge Row Trench Cemetery – a small but powerful reminder of the trench lines that once crossed this area.Woods Cemetery – surrounded by the landscape that witnessed intense fighting in WW1.We also explore the mine craters that still scar The Bluff and follow the line of the Ypres-Comines canal itself, where the battle-damaged locks remain as a rare survivor of wartime destruction here.This episode combines battlefield history, on-the-ground exploration, and the stories of the soldiers who fought here, helping us understand how a small rise in the landscape became the focus of a hard-fought battle in the Ypres Salient.Newspaper Articles About Richard Howard's Violin:Remarkable story of Leeds violin maker killed in First World War remembered at central libraryWWI soldier's violin played at his graveSign up for the free podcast newsletter here: Old Front Line Bulletin.You can order Old Front Line Merch via The Old Front Line Shop.Got a question about this episode or any others? Drop your question into the Old Front Line Discord Server or email the podcast.Send a textSupport the show

In the final part of this three-part episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, host Mike Ritland wraps up the conversation with former British Army sniper Ted Shirley. Ted shares his path to recovery from severe PTSD through civilian therapy, grounding techniques, EMDR, mindfulness, plant medicines, and years of hard work. He describes backpacking the world, rediscovering music, writing his book Afghanistan Sniper: Trauma on the Frontline and Beyond, giving mental health talks to veterans and military leaders, and reaching full remission—no longer carrying the diagnosis. A moving close full of hope, purpose, and the clear message that complete healing from combat trauma is possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this intense episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, host Mike Ritland speaks with former British Army sniper Ted Shirley about his 2009–2010 Afghanistan tour. Ted recounts mile-long confirmed kills, massive air assaults, close calls with enemy snipers, the combat high—and the brutal aftermath: severe PTSD, nightmares, aggression, addiction-like urges around killing, suicide attempts, and medical discharge. A raw, honest look at the psychological cost of being a sniper and the struggle to come home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2007, while serving with the British Army in Germany, one soldier was assigned a routine task in the cellar of an aging barracks — a former Luftwaffe station dating back to the Second World War.The underground layout was identical in every building: a long concrete corridor, heavy metal doors, fluorescent lights buzzing against thick, shadowed walls. It was old, but it was familiar. Until it wasn't.Alone at the far end of the corridor, the atmosphere shifted without warning. The air grew heavy. Silence pressed in. And he was struck with the unmistakable certainty that he was no longer by himself.What happened next sent him running for the stairs — something no training had ever prepared him for.Years later, one question still lingers: Was that cellar empty at all?#RealGhostStories #HauntedBarracks #Hauntings #ParanormalEncounter #HauntedGermany #MilitaryGhostStory #TrueParanormal #UnexplainedCold #Paranormal #UnexplainedPhenomenaLove real ghost stories? Want even more?Become a supporter and unlock exclusive extras, ad-free episodes, and advanced access:

Send me a messageChris Green is The History Chap; telling stories that brings the past to life.Flogging was the principle punishment in the British Army for nearly 200 years.Even the Duke of Wellington was a supporter.So how harsh was it? And, why (and when) did it end?Listen to my episode about the Officer Purchase System.Ways You Can Support My Channel:Become A PatronMake A DonationFor nearly 200 years, flogging was the disciplinary backbone of the British Army. From the passage of the Mutiny Act in 1689 to its abolition in 1881, corporal punishment shaped the experience of every soldier who wore the redcoat. The men who fought at Blenheim under Marlborough, who held the line at Waterloo under the Duke of Wellington, who endured the Peninsular and Crimean Wars, who fought in the American Revolutionary War — all were products of a system in which the lash was the primary instrument of military discipline.Fans of Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe's Rifles will know this world. Richard Sharpe was sentenced to 2,000 lashes; Sergeant Harper bore the scars of sixty he didn't deserve. Cornwell wasn't exaggerating. During the Napoleonic Wars, British Army courts martial routinely handed down sentences of 500 lashes — and a thousand was not unheard of. Offences ranged from desertion and mutiny to the breathtakingly trivial: being deficient of a razor earned 200 lashes; improper use of barrack bedding, 400.In this video, I trace the full story of flogging in the British Army. It begins with a legal rabbit hole — the Mutiny Act of 1689, passed after the Royal Scots mutinied at Ipswich and the government discovered it had no legal power to punish them. From there, I explore the brutal mechanics of the punishment itself: the cat o' nine tails, the regimental ceremony, the drummers and farriers who delivered the lashes, and the men who endured them.I cover the key turning points — the scandal of Private Frederick White's death at Hounslow in 1846, the Duke of Wellington's response as Commander-in-Chief, and the long parliamentary campaign that finally ended with abolition under the Childers Reforms of 1881. Despite Private Hook being warned in the film "Zulu" that stealing Dr Witt's brandy was a flogging offence, by the time of Rorke's Drift the practice was already dying. But the story doesn't end in 1881. Corporal punishment continued in military prisons until 1907, and the replacement — Field Punishment Number One, which soldiers called "crucifixion" — wasn't abolished until 1923.Support the show

Ted Shirley, a former British Army sniper with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers and author of Afghanistan Sniper: Trauma on the Frontline and Beyond, recounts his two brutal tours in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, where he became one of the UK's deadliest snipers. He opens up about the psychological toll of combat, including PTSD, addiction to the kill, substance abuse, and suicide attempts, and shares his perspective on the assassination of Charlie Kirk through the lens of his experience with political violence. Shirley ultimately reflects on his journey toward healing through therapy, plant medicine, and deep self-reflection, offering a raw but hopeful message about recovery after war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kat Matthews joins Ben Sheppard on the RunThrough Podcast to share her remarkable journey from serving as a physiotherapist in the British Army to becoming one of the world's top Ironman triathletes.Kat is the IRONMAN Pro Series Champion for 2024 and 2025, a three-time Ironman World Championship runner-up, and has twice finished second at the 70.3 World Championships. With a personal best of 8 hours and 5 minutes

"The procurement and supply chain professions are ever more relevant to the prosperity of nations and to businesses as we go into the future." - Ben Farrell, Global Chief Executive Officer, The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Striking a balance between tradition and disruption is at the top of the agenda for today's procurement leaders. Whether it's shifting global dynamics, technology, or the push for greater influence, the function's boundaries (and its reputation) are up for grabs. Ben Farrell brings a perspective forged in the British Army, major retail, and boardrooms worldwide. Now, as Global CEO of The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), he is focused on driving procurement's global profile and advancing the profession for a new generation.  In this episode, Ben shares hard-won leadership lessons and makes his case for a more visible, empowered procurement function. This is a candid conversation about risk, advocacy, and the urgent need to rebrand procurement for the value-driven world. In this episode, Ben covers: Reframing leadership from constraint to empowerment Navigating risk while still pursuing big opportunities Raising the profile of procurement inside and outside of an organization Embracing new technology as a catalyst, not a threat Why CIPS – and procurement itself – may need a new name Links: Ben Farrell on LinkedIn Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube

Agent Loxby hunts for a Russian mole in the British Army.

EP92 - Immortal Kombat - Mick Ferry High in the hills above Rochdale lives 45-year-old Biff Bronson, a former British Army soldier. Once happily married to his wife Debra, Biff's life spiraled after a posting in Berlin led him into a hidden underground fight club. What begins as brutal, no-rules combat soon reveals something far darker. The fight club is run by Ruben, a 500-year-old vampire who has secretly manipulated world leaders for centuries. Ruben isn't just staging fights for entertainment, he's searching for the strongest man alive, someone worthy of immortality. As Biff claws his way through a global circuit of savage underground bouts, he uncovers Ruben's true ambition: to crown a champion who will be turned into a vampire and continue his centuries-long reign. The final showdown? Madison Square Garden. The opponent? None other than an Elvis Presley impersonator. From Berlin backstreets to the bright lights of Memphis and New York, this is an All Made Ip story like you've never heard before. Wanna follow Mick Ferry…https://www.instagram.com/mickmferry/?hl=en Wanna follow Harry Stachini…Socials: https://linktr.ee/harrystachini Wanna follow Lewis Coleman…Insta: www.instagram.com/lewiscoleman/ Twitter: @LewisColeman93Wanna follow Ben Hart…Insta: www.instagram.com/benhartcomedy/ FB: www.facebook.com/benhartactor Twitter: @benhart0592CreditsRecorded by Liam RigbyEdited by Lewis Colemanwww.instagram.com/clementinebogghargroves/ Produced by www.instagram.com/getgiddier/ Artwork by Elliot www.instagram.com/melodyleeart/ Soundtrack by www.instagram.com/grahammccusker/ #NewPodcast #ComedyPodcast #FightClub #Elvis #Vampire #Fantasy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neil Johnson OBE is Group Chair of QinetiQ. Formerly, he was CEO of the RAC, and began his career in the British Army. Listen to this episode to hear about: The three boardroom experiences that most shaped Neil as a board member (01:450) What trade union battles taught Neil about leadership under pressure (04:03) Bringing military command experience into the boardroom (09:47) Prioritising time with people on the ground over board papers (13:47) Firing the chair: inside the RAC boardroom crisis (17:00) How disengaged boards lose touch with reality (24:09) Imposter syndrome at board level (29:38) Deep dive: Neil's time as Chair of Qinetiq (30:52) Why chairing a board is like managing a football team (34:09) ⚡The Lightning Round ⚡(38:38)Host: Oliver Cummings Producer: Will Felton Editor: Penelope Coumau Music: Kate Mac Audio: Nick Kold Email: podcast@nurole.com Web: https://www.nurole.com/nurole-podcast-enter-the-boardroom

In this episode, Dr Julie Greeves, principal physiologist for the British Army and expert in applied human physiology, shares groundbreaking research on female soldier health, injury prevention, and performance optimisation. Dr. Greeves unpacks the Women in Ground Close Combat research program, and explains what it tells us about physical performance, load carriage and reproductive health. Listeners from defence, sports, or health sciences will benefit from these insights, which can help tailor training and policies for women in demanding environments. We discuss the implementation of physical employment standards, the importance of nutrition, menstrual health and sleep for female soldiers, and the steps required to help women thrive in strenuous roles within the military.Key Takeaways:Development and implementation of gender-specific physical employment standards and their impact on female recruitment.Physiological differences between men and women: skeletal structure, muscle mass, cardiovascular capacity, and susceptibility to injury.Injury risk factors: higher stress fractures and bone injuries in women, especially during initial training phases.Benefits of female physiology: metabolic advantages, increased fat oxidation during prolonged submaximal exercise, and potential to reduce injury risk with appropriate systems.The myth of training around the menstrual cycle and its practical, science-backed inaccuracy.Hormonal fluctuations, menstrual health, contraceptive use, and their impacts on performance and injury risk.The importance of micronutrients like iron and calcium for women in military settings.The role of sleep, stress, and the gut-brain axis in psychological health and performance, with sex differences in cortisol responses.Practical advice for individuals preparing for arduous training: targeted load carriage, resistance, nutrition, and tracking menstrual health.Guest:Julie is the Head of Army Health and Performance Research in the British Army. After obtaining her doctorate in female physiology, Julie has spent over 25 years pioneering original research on musculoskeletal health and human performance in the military. Julie's research has widely informed Army and Defence policies, and she was decorated with an OBE in 2017 for her scientific contribution to the opening of Ground Close Combat roles to women. Julie holds honorary Chair appointments at the School of Medicine UEA and UCL and has published over 140 original papers in peer-reviewed journals.Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-greeves-obe-facsm-60170a52/?originalSubdomain=ukhttps://scholar.google.com/citations?user=RgILbTUAAAAJ&hl=en Arduous Training Guide for Women – coming soon!Chapters:00:13 Julie's Career Journey and Current Role02:06 Women in Ground Close Combat Research Program04:39 Implementing Research Findings in the Army08:41 Physical Differences and Injury Risks for Women12:02 Benefits of Female Physiology in the Military16:17 Training and the Menstrual Cycle22:58 Analysing Data on Muscle Performance and Bone Health23:12 Informed Decisions on Contraceptives and Training23:57 Tactical Decisions Around Menstrual Cycle24:17 Understanding RED-S in Military Context25:13 Energy Deficiency and Logistical Challenges26:52 Impact of Sleep on Reproductive Health29:16 Psychological Health and Stress Responses33:14 Nutritional Needs and Training Recommendations36:09 Empowering Women Through Menstrual Health Tracking38:33 Future Research and Implementation42:46 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksWomen can absolutely thrive in demanding military and sporting environments if they get the right training, nutrition, sleep, and monitor their menstrual health. The tools and policies to support you are on the horizon. Thanks for listening!Thanks for listening to Optimising Human Performance.This podcast is for people who can't afford to fail. Each episode gives you practical, evidence‑based tools you can apply in the real world.For more about the podcast, speaking, coaching, and mentoring, visit:www.ophp.co.ukConnect with us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/Instagram: @ophumanperformanceIf you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lieutenant General Sir Nick Borton was commissioned into the British Army in 1991. Over a 34 year career, he has served in UK, Germany, Belize, Bosnia, Brunei, Cyprus, Iraq and Afghanistan. He has worked in strategy and policy in the UK Ministry of Defence, and commanded at every level from platoon to corps. His most recent appointments included: Commander 16 Air Assault Brigade; Commander 3rd (UK) Division, and Chief of Staff UK Permanent Joint HQ, where he was responsible for the daily running of all UK joint operations globally. His most recent appointment was command of the NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, UK's senior field formation, focused on NATO deterrence in Europe. He was awarded the MBE in 2002, the Distinguished Service Order for commanding his Battalion in Helmand, Afghanistan in 2008, and was appointed Knight Commander of The Order of the Bath in the 2023 King's Birthday Honours. He is a graduate of: University of Stirling; Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Cranfield University; Joint Services Command and Staff College; National Defence University Washington DC, and is a Distinguished Fellow of the Royal United Services Institute. On leaving the Army, he has pursued various strategic advisory, board and business roles and is a NATO Senior Mentor. He is married to Amanda, and they have two daughters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send a textTIM SAUNDERS served as an infantry officer with the British Army for thirty years, during which time he took the opportunity to visit campaigns far and wide, from ancient to modern. Since leaving the Army he has become a full time military historian and has made nearly fifty full documentary films with Battlefield History and Pen & Sword. He is an active guide and accredited member of the Guild of Battlefield Guides.Tim's books are available here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tim-Saunders/a/227If you served on Op Telic 9 or 10, and would be interested in being interviewed for an oral history project, please drop Geraint a line at info@vsompodcast.com, or @veteranstateofmind on InstagramSupport the show

The Kremlin has denied using a dart frog toxin to kill Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in 2024.But Britain and four European allies say they have evidence that points to the use of the forbidden chemical agent.Why did the allies choose the Munich security conference to make this point? And how has Moscow responded to the claims?Gareth is joined by Hamish de Bretton-Gordon - former head of British Army's chemical weapons unit - and defence analyst Michael Clarke to discuss whether Russia wanted the world to know how they carried out Navalny's death and ask should the UK be ready for chemical warfare with Russia?Producer: Tom Gillespie and Emily HulmeEditor: Philly Beaumont

For this episode, I am joined by Philip McCarty to discuss his book Point of Failure: British Army Brigadiers in France and Norway, 1940 . It is a study of the brigadiers who served in France and Norway in 1940. Rather than focusing on campaign narratives, Philip examines the men who held this rank. Their backgrounds. Their training. The influence of networks, regimental culture and staff college upon their careers. And what happened to them after the defeats in France and Norway? This is a fresh way to approach the early-war British Army, offering insight into how the institution thought about leadership, promotion, and responsibility at a moment of intense pressure.   patreon.com/ww2podcast  

Rabbi Ariel Abel asks why the Torah moves so abruptly from the cosmic revelation of Sinai to the detailed civil laws outlined in Mishpatim. Rabbi Abel encourages cooperation, discussion and debate across the spectrum of the Jewish community. He is a rabbinic graduate of Midrash Sephardi in Jerusalem. He is a practising lawyer and a Sandhurst graduate chaplain in the British Army. 

A Russian spy deep inside the British Army is activated to steal a new battle tank.

In this latest First World War Q&A episode we tackle some of the most intriguing and overlooked questions about life, strategy and survival on the Western Front and after the guns fell silent.Why did the British Army so often attack on ground not of its own choosing, at places like Loos and the Somme? If British commanders could have picked the battlefield, where might they have fought instead, and why? We then explore the everyday realities of the British Army by looking at the role of regimental cooks: were they safe behind the lines, or did they have to fight as front-line soldiers too? And if so what examples do we have of this?Moving beyond the Armistice, we examine what happened when civilians returned to their shattered towns and villages after the Great War. Did governments help rebuild devastated communities, or was the burden carried by charities and local people? How were homes, farms and businesses reconstructed across the former battlefields of France and Belgium, and who actually paid for the enormous clean-up of the Western Front? We look at unexploded shells, wrecked trenches, barbed wire and battlefield debris, and ask whether German reparations really covered the cost.Finally, we investigate one of the visual trademarks of First World War battlefields: blasted woodland reduced to splintered stumps. If forests offered little cover and tangled roots made digging trenches harder, why were woods and copses fought over so fiercely?A deep dive into strategy, soldiers' daily lives, post-war reconstruction and the scarred landscapes of the Western Front, this episode sheds new light on how the First World War was fought and how its aftermath reshaped Europe.Main Image: 'This Place was Hooge' - Provisional housing at Hooge in c.1919/20 (Old Front Line archives)Sign up for the free podcast newsletter here: Old Front Line Bulletin.You can order Old Front Line Merch via The Old Front Line Shop.Got a question about this episode or any others? Drop your question into the Old Front Line Discord Server or email the podcast.Send us a textSupport the show

London Case - Not about Truth and AccountabilityIn May 2022 a civil case was launched against me in England. The civil trial will begin on 9 March in London, and conclude on St Patrick's Day.There are some aspects of the case I can comment on and others I cannot at this time. Suffice to say that this is an unorthodox claim against me about events which occurred 29 and 53 years ago. In short, three Claimants, seek to hold me personally liable for three bombings committed by the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in March 1973 (at the Old Bailey), in February 1996 (at London Docklands) and in June 1996 (at the Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre).Many innocent people were seriously hurt, three were killed in the bombings. The Claimants were injured and have suffered as a result. They deserve nothing but sympathy for what they have gone through. So do all those who were killed or injured in the conflict. And their families.  I regret all the deaths and injuries.People are entitled to use the law. However, this case is brought decades after these incidents and decades after the Good Friday Agreement brought peace to us all.   I anticipate, from public statements made by the Claimants' solicitors, that a number of former British Army, and RUC/PSNI witnesses will give hearsay evidence that because I was a senior republican during the conflict I must be responsible for these specific events.Stand-up to a Genocidal BullyAs the world ponders the implications of US President Trump's talk of an ‘armada' heading for Iran; or his latest threat of tariffs against Canada; or his ongoing threats against Cuba, Greenland and Europe; the so-called ceasefire in the Gaza Strip which he brokered in October has been breached over 1300 times by the Israeli apartheid regime. 509 Palestinians have been killed.In just one morning last week, Israeli attacks on Gaza City and Khan Younis left 31 Palestinians, including six children, dead. The limited medical facilities were overwhelmed with the dead and wounded.Streets of MinneapolisI have been very fortunate over the years to see Bruce Springsteen live. The concerts and the music are amazing. The Boss's lyrics are sharp and he is unafraid to sing about the politics that anger and outrage him. ‘Born in the USA' is an anthem against the War in Vietnam. ‘Streets of Philadelphia' highlighted the aids crisis.Last week he turned his ire on the behaviour of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE )agents.Springsteen dedicated the song – Streets of Minneapolis - to the “people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbours and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good”. Well done Bruce. 

Visit Osprey publishing to see their incredible catalogue of military history books - https://www.ospreypublishing.com Britain has a Royal Navy. A Royal Air Force. And yet… a British Army. Not a Royal Army. Why? If you've ever tried to find a clear answer, you'll know how unsatisfying the usual explanations are. Tradition. Regiments. Legal technicalities. All true - and all incomplete. The full reason lies far deeper, in a violent and deeply uncomfortable chapter of British history. To find it, you have to rewind nearly four hundred years, to the English Civil War - a moment when England experimented with something new, dangerous, and unprecedented. This episode follows that experiment as it spirals out of control: the first redcoats, armies choosing sides, kings losing authority, and politicians learning lessons the hard way. My main sources for this video were: Lord Carver, The Seven Ages of the British Army (London, 1984) Fortescue, A History of the British Army Vol. 1, (London, 1899) The Army and the Restoration of 1660 by Godfrey Davis (Journal of the Society for Army Historical Research, Vol 32, No. 129)

This Fuck Yeah Friday, Lesley Logan shares the story of Dr. James Barry, a woman who changed medical history by defying the limits placed on her. The episode also includes a community win around collaboration and referrals, along with a personal reflection on how small steps build momentum. It offers a grounded reminder that progress builds through consistency, not perfection. If you have any questions about this episode or want to get some of the resources we mentioned, head over to LesleyLogan.co/podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/. If you have any comments or questions about the Be It pod shoot us a message at beit@lesleylogan.co mailto:beit@lesleylogan.co. And as always, if you're enjoying the show please share it with someone who you think would enjoy it as well. It is your continued support that will help us continue to help others. Thank you so much! Never miss another show by subscribing at LesleyLogan.co/subscribe https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/#follow-subscribe-free.In this episode you will learn about:How refusing limits on her identity allowed a woman to reshape medical history.The importance of women supporting communities so everyone benefits.How long-term client relationships grow through shared history and trust.Why collaboration grows stronger through open referrals and support.How confidence and momentum grow by simply getting started.Episode References/Links:Submit your wins or questions - https://beitpod.com/questionsHerWiki - https://www.instagram.com/p/DQS1YGZCOZd If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. https://lovethepodcast.com/BITYSIDEALS! DEALS! DEALS! DEALS! https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentCheck out all our Preferred Vendors & Special Deals from Clair Sparrow, Sensate, Lyfefuel BeeKeeper's Naturals, Sauna Space, HigherDose, AG1 and ToeSox https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentBe in the know with all the workshops at OPC https://workshops.onlinepilatesclasses.com/lp-workshop-waitlistBe It Till You See It Podcast Survey https://pod.lesleylogan.co/be-it-podcasts-surveyBe a part of Lesley's Pilates Mentorship https://lesleylogan.co/elevate/FREE Ditching Busy Webinar https://ditchingbusy.com/Resources:Watch the Be It Till You See It podcast on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gLesley Logan website https://lesleylogan.co/Be It Till You See It Podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjogqXLnfyhS5VlU4rdzlnQProfitable Pilates https://profitablepilates.com/about/Follow Us on Social Media:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lesley.logan/The Be It Till You See It Podcast YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gFacebook https://www.facebook.com/llogan.pilatesLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-logan/The OPC YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@OnlinePilatesClasses Episode Transcript:Lesley Logan 0:00  It's Fuck Yeah Friday. Brad Crowell 0:01  Fuck yeah. Lesley Logan 0:02  Get ready for some wins. Welcome to the Be It Till You See It podcast where we talk about taking messy action, knowing that perfect is boring. I'm Lesley Logan, Pilates instructor and fitness business coach. I've trained thousands of people around the world and the number one thing I see stopping people from achieving anything is self-doubt. My friends, action brings clarity and it's the antidote to fear. Each week, my guest will bring bold, executable, intrinsic and targeted steps that you can use to put yourself first and Be It Till You See It. It's a practice, not a perfect. Let's get started. Lesley Logan 0:48  Happy last Friday of January 2026. Holy freaking molly. This is crazy. It's crazy. Oh my goodness. How are you, babe? Really? I am so grateful that you are spending some time listening to this podcast. I do not take it lightly. I am obsessed with what we're creating. I cannot believe how deep into the 600 episodes we are. It is mind boggling to me, to be completely honest. So we're gonna kick this off with something that inspired me. This is insanity. This is gonna blow your mind and like, create things to talk about during your day. If you're like, oh my God, I don't know how to talk to this person, you should talk about this. All right. So for 56 years, the British Army's top surgeon had a secret so explosive, they buried the records for a century to hide it. Even Florence Nightingale never figured it out. Margaret Ann Bulkley, was born in 1809 Ireland. At 15, she watched her father rot in debtors prison, while her uncle, a famous artist, refused to help. Historians think she was raped, got pregnant, had to hide the baby as her sister. But Margaret didn't break. She did something so insane, so brilliant, that 200 years later, we're still shook by the audacity of it all. She killed Margaret Bulkley. Became James Barry, bound her chest, deepened her voice, and walked into the Edinburgh, Edinburgh Medical School like she owned the place. The other students thought he was a prepubescent boy. Too young, too smooth-faced. The university tried blocking the degree. But Barry had allies. In 1812, Dr. James Barry graduates, moved to London, becomes an army surgeon. The transformation was complete. Margaret was dead. James was unstoppable. Posted to Cape Town. Barry didn't just treat white colonists. He fought for enslaved people, prisoners, lepers. Made enemies everywhere. His temper was legendary. Once got into a pistol duel, shot the peak off the other guy's hat. Message delivered, don't f with Dr. Barry. Then came the moment that should have exposed everything. A woman with a complicated pregnancy needed a C-section. No European had done one in Africa and kept both the mother and the child alive. Barry doesn't has, didn't hesitate, cut her open, pulled out the baby, stitched her up. Both survived. They named the child James Barry. In honor. For 46 years, Barry rose through the ranks, became Inspector General. I mean, the most beautiful, like, just look at that. Oh, like angelic. Became Inspector General, second highest medical position in the British Army, reformed hospitals everywhere. Florence Nightingale called her or the most hardened creature I've ever met. She had no idea she was beefing with a woman fighting tooth and nail trying to survive. Barry had rules. Nobody enters while I'm undressing. If I die, bury me in my sheets. No examination, no preparation, just bury me fast. But on July 25th 1865 Barry dies of dysentery. The chairwoman preparing the body makes a discovery that rocks the British Empire to its core. Not just female anatomy, stretch marks, signs of childbirth. The second highest medical officer in the British Army had been a woman all along. The army went into damage control, sealed the records for 100 years, tried to make it disappear, but the truth was already spreading. The woman who couldn't get into university because of her sex had just spent 56 years as British Army's most decorated doctor. She performed surgeries men couldn't reform, healthcare systems saved thousands, all while, one discovery away from losing everything. They tried to bury her as Margaret, but she'd already buried, already buried that girl in 1809, she died as she lived as Dr. James Barry, on her own terms. Everyone who's been told that's not for girls, this is your ancestor. So whether we want to call them Dr. Barry or Mark like she I think Dr. Barry, this person's a badass, amazing and just goes to show us all that, like, like, things can happen and they can change you, and you can still change the world. You can still take all of that and go and change the world. And it's hard. I'm sure it was so difficult for this person, no wonder they were angry. No wonder people were fighting them, like, I can't even imagine. But also like, wow, way to pave ways, and way to make discoveries and save lives, and not just fight for one side, but also, like for the lives of other people. We can do a lot of things. So just proof that when women are in communities, we support the whole community. It's kind of amazing. Lesley Logan 5:17  All right, your win for today that you've sent in. So you can send in your wins to beitpod.com/questions you can send a question, you can send a win. But this is from MelissaYNagai. She's been with us for so long, and I love that she still sends her wins into us. So I realized today that every client I taught has done Pilates for years. Two go to yoga studios for mat, some have moved closer to me, so switched. A couple worked with me at a previous studio I worked at, and now here with me. Also, several of them have taken time off Pilates, but keep coming back. And that's so cool. I think that's so cool. I think it's so awesome. Also, that you're celebrating that they've been doing it for years. It's not just with you that, like they've just been doing it for years, and like it used to be when we all started teaching Melissa, I'm sure the same way, it's like, like, most people didn't even know what Pilate was. And now we have people who've been doing Pilates for years and years and years, and yes, people are still discovering it, but like, it's possible to have all these people just have, like, a lot of history doing Pilates. You also sent in, had some of the team from the health and wellness unlimited out to my home studio space for a bit of conversation how they can help make referrals, plus a mini workout. This is the clinic I share space with my second studio. And I just absolutely love that you are spreading the good word and inviting people in to see how we can collaborate more. Y'all, like, Pilates or whatever it is that you do. This isn't always Pilates. People who are listening whatever is that you do. It's better in collaboration. Everything is, you know, and it's hard to do because we're like, oh my God, why would they work with me? Or I don't know. I don't want them to think I'm still, no one is, I don't I you're not if you're listening this podcast, you're probably not an asshole, and you're unlikely to steal anybody's anything. But like, we can help people. My chiropractor sends us members. We send my people to my chiropractor. Like, it's just how it makes the world go round. And isn't that great? People want good referrals. So I love that you're shining from the rooftops, like, how what you do can support what they do. And I think I love that this is a win, Melissa, because we can all learn from that. Like, how can I work with someone over there who does something different than me, but with people who are the same as who I work with? How can we work together more? That's what makes things a community. That's what makes people feel less alone. Lesley Logan 6:09  All right, your, oh, my win. I always was like, okay, done, nailed it. You know, my win is, I was reflecting a bit about last year. I take a little while because, like, to me, I'm on tour for when the New Year happens. So I took some time. And on my vacation, I thought about, like, oh, I wanted to read 25 books in 2025 like, did I do that? I did. I read more. And I actually realized, like, because I started reading again, like, how fast I read again. And, like, I read things all over the place, like, all over different subjects and genres. And I really enjoy that. And I also count Audible books as reading a book. So because I listen to Audible books and read physical books, and I love reading physical books, that's just not always an option, especially when I'm on tour, that like, I could probably read even more. So, you know, definitely 26 in 26 but you know, it really, it felt really kind of daunting when I was like, oh, am I gonna read 25 books? How am I gonna read 25 books, especially when the first few just took a little longer than I thought. But the reality is, like you just get started. Just get started. And so I hope that helps you. If that is a goal of yours, to read more, and that's my win for this week. See how simple a win can be. I've read some books. Yes, I did, and I'm so like, you just it's actually quite nice to read a book. Lesley Logan 8:38  Okay, I grow towards my interests like a plant reaching for the sun. I grow towards my interests like a plant reaching for the sun. I grow towards my interest like a plant reaching for the sun. Oh yeah. Like chew on that all weekend long, loves. All right. Send this to a friend who needs to hear it. It really would help this podcast grow. Send your questions and your wins in. We love sharing them and listening to them and until next time, Be It Till You See It. Lesley Logan 9:09  That's all I got for this episode of the Be It Till You See It Podcast. One thing that would help both myself and future listeners is for you to rate the show and leave a review and follow or subscribe for free wherever you listen to your podcast. Also, make sure to introduce yourself over at the Be It Pod on Instagram. I would love to know more about you. Share this episode with whoever you think needs to hear it. Help us and others Be It Till You See It. Have an awesome day. Be It Till You See It is a production of The Bloom Podcast Network. If you want to leave us a message or a question that we might read on another episode, you can text us at +1-310-905-5534 or send a DM on Instagram @BeItPod.Brad Crowell 9:51  It's written, filmed, and recorded by your host, Lesley Logan, and me, Brad Crowell.Lesley Logan 9:56  It is transcribed, produced and edited by the epic team at Disenyo.co.Brad Crowell 10:01  Our theme music is by Ali at Apex Production Music and our branding by designer and artist, Gianfranco Cioffi.Lesley Logan 10:08  Special thanks to Melissa Solomon for creating our visuals.Brad Crowell 10:11  Also to Angelina Herico for adding all of our content to our website. And finally to Meridith Root for keeping us all on point and on time.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/be-it-till-you-see-it/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Did the King intervene after Donald Trump's comments on NATO troops in Afghanistan?After an unexpected u-turn from Donald Trump on the British Army's role in the war, many people questioned whether the King had personally spoken to the White House. Charlene, Chris and Lizzie explain what really happened between King Charles and the US President.Plus, we've got all the backstage details from the first ever film premiere held at a royal residence. The King has collaborated with Amazon Prime to produce a very personal documentary called Finding Harmony: A King's Vision.

In this episode of Get Out of Wrap, I'm joined by the brilliant Shameem Smillie – CX leader, writer, speaker, one of the founding members of Women in CX, and Senior GTM Specialist for EMEA at Amazon.Shameem's journey is anything but conventional. From leaving school with no qualifications, to serving 13 years in the British Army, to becoming one of the most respected voices in customer experience and contact centres, this is a conversation about resilience, representation, courage, and doing the work.We talk openly about:What the military taught her about leadership, teamwork, and accountabilityWhy contact centres are the beating heart of organisationsThe reality of representation, allyship, and advocating for othersWhy AI shouldn't scare us and how it can genuinely help agents and leadersThe importance of culture, candour, and speaking truth in organisationsThis episode is honest, funny, powerful, and deeply human.If you care about leadership, CX, people, and progress then this one's for you.

You can watch this episode of Planet Normal on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4f7eZbkA91QIt's been a week of defections, rejections and tantrums in the world of politics, and your co pilots are here to wade through the madness. After the Telegraph published an article outlining the role Starmer took in prosecuting soldiers your co-pilots speak to General Sir Peter Wall to delve deeper into the scandal.Allison thinks Starmer ‘isn't for Britain' and his human right activism undermines the important role the British Army plays in the defence of our Country.Liam thinks as China starts to overtake the US economically the West will have to deal with them, but at what cost will this be to British business and values?Planet Normal Live! You can purchase your ticket here: telegraph.co.uk/planetnormalliveSign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor |Read Allison ‘Suella Braverman has been vilified for telling the truth' https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/01/27/suella-braverman-has-been-vilified-for-telling-the-truth/ |Read Allison ‘Never again' feels like an increasingly hollow promise': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/01/28/holocaust-survivors-anti-semitism/ |Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ | Read Liam ‘Peace may be coming but Ukraine has changed the world forever': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/01/25/peace-may-be-coming-but-ukraine-changed-the-world-forever/ |Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |Read Liam's Substack: https://liamhalligan.substack.com/ | Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal | Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Former French senator found guilty of drugging MP British Army officer dies after incident during fire training Carney denies walking back Davos speech in phone call with Trump Pornhub to restrict access for UK users from February Growing number of adults avoid booze, NHS survey suggests Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer flies to China for three day visit Storm Chandra brings flooding and travel disruption with rain and wind warnings across UK Workers Party of Britain name Gorton and Denton by election pick US to send ICE agents to Winter Olympics, prompting Italian anger Pubs to get support package after business rates backlash

Can AI actually help end war, or is that just a nice idea?In this episode, Shane Ray Martin sits down with Simon Horton, author of The End of Conflict: How AI Will End War and Help Us Get On Better. Simon has spent 20 years teaching negotiation and conflict resolution across 25 countries, including work with major banks and the British Army.What you'll hear in this episodeWhy Simon believes AI can help end war The Libya story: AI-supported public dialogue, live on TV, and what changed afterWhy deliberative tech may become normal in government and big decisionsWhere Shane sees the biggest opportunities: AI for negotiation and misinformationWhat PeaceTech founders should build if they want adoption inside real workflowsSimon also gets super honest. He does not fully trust Big Tech, and he explains why power and incentives matter. Shane shares his take too, and why PeaceTech founders have a unique shot to build profit-driven companies led by people who actually care about peace.Grab a copy of Simon's book: theendofconflict.ai/buy-the-book

Abhay shares a chat with pioneering polar explorer Preet Chandi.  Born and raised in Derby in England, Preet is a British Army officer, a physiotherapist, and a record‑breaking adventure athlete who became the first woman of color to complete a solo expedition to the South Pole. She has since gone on to break multiple Guinness World Records for solo, unsupported Antarctic ski expeditions, using her journeys to challenge perceived norms about who belongs in extreme adventure environments and to inspire others to push their own boundaries. Preet shares her journey of adventure, the importance of discipline over motivation, and how her cultural heritage and community support fuel her expeditions. She discusses the challenges of preparation, facing fears, and the vulnerability that comes with pushing boundaries. Preet emphasizes the significance of learning from failures and the need for self-acceptance in achieving success. Preet encourages all of us to take our first steps in finding and realizing our own adventures, no matter how daunting they may seem.(0:00 - 2:34) Introduction(2:34) Part 1 - Everyday rituals and adventures, Training and resilience(13:02) Sponsor break: Travelopod(13:37) Part 2 - Dealing with miscues and fear, Ambition and humility,  Identity and Fundraising(29:45) Sponsor break: Timberdog(30:16) Part 3 - Fragility on a Polar Expedition, The meaning of Adventure and Exploring(38:35) ConclusionPlease help support Preet on her next journey to become the first woman to travel solo to the North Pole: https://www.gofundme.com/f/next-expeditionTRUST ME I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING is brought to you by TRAVELOPOD, with personalized travel support to help you explore the wonders of the world.  Start your next journey at vacation.travelopod.comThis episode is also sponsored by RuffRest® , the only dog bed you'll ever need.  Go to www.timberdog.com to learn more

The Football Legend Who Traded the Ivy League for the Front Lines: The Story of Johnnie PoeIn the middle of a major winter storm, with classes canceled and the wind howling outside, it's easy to find your mind wandering toward the macabre—perhaps to a certain Edgar Allan Poe story like The Cask of Amontillado. But while most of us associate the name Poe with gothic poetry and raven-themed football teams, there is a far more "rough and tumble" legacy attached to the family name.On a recent episode of the Pig Pen podcast, Darin Hayes sat down with Timothy Brown of Football Archaeology to discuss a man who was a second cousin twice removed from the famous poet: the legendary Johnny Poe.A Princeton DynastyJohnnie Poe was the third of six brothers who played for Princeton University between 1882 and 1901. In an era where the Ivy League was the epicenter of the sport, the Poes were football royalty. Johnny himself was a standout during the 1891 and 1892 seasons, consistently ranking as one of the team's top scorers.However, Johnnie Poe wasn't your typical Ivy League student. He wasn't destined for the quiet life of a district attorney or a businessman like his brothers. He was a man who marched to the beat of a much louder, more dangerous drum.The Wanderer and the WarriorAfter dropping out of Princeton following his sophomore year, Johnnie's life read like an adventure novel. He spent time:Coaching: Leading the teams at the University of Virginia and Navy.Laboring: Mining for gold in the Yukon and working as a cowboy in New Mexico.Soldiering: Seeking action wherever he could find it.Johnnie's thirst for combat was legendary. He joined the Maryland militia for the Spanish-American War (but saw no action), joined the Army to fight in the Philippines (still no action), and even joined the Marines during the Panamanian Revolution. He finally "found his calling" fighting in the Honduran Army, where he finally saw the direct combat he craved.A Hero's End in the "Black Watch"When World War I broke out, Johnnie didn't wait for the United States to enter the fray. He traveled to Europe and joined the British Army. Unsatisfied with being an artilleryman behind the lines, he transferred to the Black Watch, the famous Scottish Highlander regiment.In 1915, during a fierce battle near Ypres in Flanders, Johnnie Poe was killed in action. He was shot in the stomach, and due to the chaotic nature of the conflict, his body was never recovered. He remains "out there" somewhere in the fields of France or Belgium—a fittingly mysterious end for a relative of Edgar Allan Poe.A Lasting LegacyJohnnie Poe's impact on Princeton football didn't end with his death. Even before the U.S. officially joined WWI, Princeton established the John Poe Award for the team's top player. Today, after being combined with another legend's name, it is known as the Poe-Kazmaier Trophy.It's a remarkable testament to a man who was respected by everyone from common soldiers to future presidents (he once spent an hour talking football on the practice field with then-Princeton President Woodrow Wilson).Whether you find him brave, reckless, or a bit of both, Johnny Poe remains one of the most fascinating figures in the intersection of sports and military history.For more deep dives into the forgotten stories of the gridiron, visit FootballArchaeology.com or find Timothy...

Day 1,432.Today, as Kyiv endures sub-zero temperatures, we report on Russia's latest mass aerial attack on the city, carried out even as trilateral so-called peace talks were taking place in Abu Dhabi over the weekend. We examine Steve Witkoff's latest visit to Moscow – he has still yet to travel to Ukraine – and ask why Russia is now pushing the opaque “Alaska formula” in a bid to secure territory it has failed to seize by force. And later, Francis Dearnley and Hamish de Bretton-Gordon visit the British Army's Land Warfare Centre, where the next generation of soldiers is learning the lessons of the war in Ukraine.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Hamish De Bretton-Gordon (Former British Army Tank Commander). @HamishDBGon on X.With thanks to Colonel Thurston from the Land Warfare Centre. SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Learn more about the Land Warfare Centre:https://www.army.mod.uk/learn-and-explore/about-the-army/formations-divisions-and-brigades/field-army-troops/land-warfare-centre/ LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mountain guns sound obscure — until you realise they let the British Army haul artillery up goat tracks and into places the enemy thought were safe. In this episode, friend of the show Chris Brice, speaks to a career Royal Artillery officer whose research traces the story from early improvisation to the formal creation of ten Royal Artillery mountain batteries in 1889 — and why this “forgotten” weapon mattered more than most people realise. Subscribe for more British military history, and sign up at redcoathistory.com for updates and extras and a free eBook. 

Send us a textWorld War I: Feeding the British Army With ( Pete's Living History )On this episode of the American Civil War & UK History podcast, host Daz is joined by living historian Pete Neal of the TikTok page Pete's Living History to explore how the British Army was fed during the First World War.Feeding the British Army in the First World War was a logistical struggle as much as a necessity. Soldiers relied on basic, calorie-rich rations such as bully beef, biscuits, bread, jam, tea, and tinned vegetables, with hot meals from field kitchens when supplies reached the line. Disruptions caused by mud, shellfire, and the German blockade often reduced these comforts, leaving men with cold, repetitive fare like Maconochie stew or pea soup, sometimes made with horsemeat. In these conditions, parcels from home and the daily rum ration played an important role in sustaining morale as well as bodies.Pete's Living History TikTok page https://www.tiktok.com/@petes_livinghistory?_r=1&_t=ZN-93OUN2HUyIMACW & UK History's Website.https://www.acwandukhistory.com/ACW & UK History's Pages.https://linktr.ee/ACWandUKHISTORYSupport the show

This special episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the Imperial War Museum London, in October 2025. I speak with Colin Ferguson, a veteran from the British Army‘s covert Special Observation Post Troop. This "stay behind" Special OP Troop consisted of selected soldiers in 6-man patrols whose task was to dig in large underground hides known as "mexe" shelters along the inner German border. They would then allow the main Soviet forces to pass over them before deploying to two smaller observation posts (Ops) where they would engage the enemy with the long-range guns and rockets of the British Army. We speak in detail about selection, training and deployment. Do check out Colin's podcast, “The Unconventional Soldier”, which offers first-hand accounts of past conflicts, military history, book and film reviews, plus guests, dits and digressions. Episode extras ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode440 Help me preserve Cold War history and via a simple monthly donation, You'll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and you'll bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history. Just go to ⁠⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/⁠⁠ If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, We also welcome one-off donations via the same link. Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to ⁠⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/store/⁠⁠ CONTINUE  THE COLD WAR CONVERSATION Follow us on BlueSky ⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/coldwarpod.bsky.social⁠⁠ Follow us on Threads ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@coldwarconversations⁠⁠ Follow us on Twitter ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod⁠⁠ Facebook ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/⁠⁠ Youtube ⁠⁠https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this latest Questions & Answers episode, we tackle some intriguing, and often misunderstood, aspects of life and fighting on the Western Front during the First World War.Who actually decided what a battle was called? Did the ordinary soldier know, at the time, which battle he was fighting in – or even when one battle had ended and another begun, during almost four years of near-continuous combat? We explore how battles were named, dated, and defined, and what that meant for the men experiencing the war on the ground.We also examine the introduction of the policy that 10% of a battalion was held back during attacks, particularly on 1 July 1916, the First day of the Battle of the Somme. When did this practice begin? Was it standard throughout the war? And where were these men actually positioned? Was it in support trenches, reserve lines, or further back with transport and logistics?For those who engage with the First World War through the landscape itself, we answer a listener's thoughtful question about walking The Old Front Line at Ypres. Thinking about the surviving terrain, memorials, and traces of trench warfare, we recommend one particularly powerful walking route in the Ypres Salient that still tells the story of the war in a way that just maps and books sometimes cannot.Finally, we address a sensitive but important topic: did British Army officers really receive more leave than their men? If so, how was this perceived by the ranks, and what impact did it have on morale within the British and Commonwealth armies?Main image: British troops arriving on leave at Victoria Station, London. (IWM Q30515)The Battles Nomenclature Committee Report 1919: Naval and Military Press website.Sign up for the free podcast newsletter here: Old Front Line Bulletin.You can order Old Front Line Merch via The Old Front Line Shop.Got a question about this episode or any others? Drop your question into the Old Front Line Discord Server or email the podcast.Send us a textSupport the show

 Upcoming EventsSinn Féin's Commission on the Future of Ireland is hosting a People's Assembly in Cork.  The event will take place on Thursday  19th of February 7pm at the Rochestown Park Hotel. Join the discussion on a new Ireland, how it could be achieved and what it might look like. The conversation will be led by an independent chair and panel which will be announced soon. You can register to attend on Eventbrite or at the venue on the night.  South & East Belfast Sinn Féin is hosting an evening discussion on what a world class, all-Ireland health system could look like and how we make it a reality. Chaired by Deirdre Hargey MLA, with Guest speaker David Cullinane TD and joined by panellists from across the health sector. The event will take place on the 12th of February 7pm at the Malone Lodge.  Kitson Praises Paras in BallymurphyI recently came across the autobiography of British General Sir Frank Kitson which was published last year shortly after his death. It is titled ‘Intelligent Warfare' an oxymoron in any language. In truth it is an account of British military failures through several colonial wars in which Kitson fought, including in Ireland. It is also a reflection of Kitson's enormous personal ego.Kitson came to prominence within the British military hierarchy in the 1950s during its efforts to crush the independence rebellion in Kenya. He established counter-gangs that tortured and killed Kenyan civilians. The groups were made up of British soldiers, including Kitson on occasion, and former members of those fighting against British rule. Tens of thousands of Kenyans ended up in over 150 detention camps where they were brutalized. An estimated 30,000 Kenyans were killed; one and a half million were interned; torture was commonplace and 1090 were hanged.While Kitson boasts of his role in the counter-gangs he ignores the human rights violations that underpinned British strategy in that African country.In 1970 he took command of the 39th Brigade – which covered Belfast and surrounding region. In the same year he published ‘Low Intensity Operations' which quickly became the standard text book for the British Army's counter-insurgency strategy in the following decades. A Raffle for Jim Fitzpatrick limited edition printThe Moore Street Preservation Trust is raffling our hugely popular Elizabeth O'Farrell print - a unique, framed print designed and signed by the renowned Irish artist Jim Fitzpatrick. Míle buiochas Jim.  The draw will take place on Good Friday, 3 April 2026.Tickets are €5 / £5 and they can be bought at: msptshop.myshopify.com Public Media IrelandLast week a report entitled, ‘Public Media Ireland: a New PSM (Public Service Media) Organisation for a New Country' was published in Belfast. The report – a joint project by Dublin City University and Ulster University – recommends the setting up of a new public service media organisation, Public Media Ireland, if citizens  ote yes in the referendum for constitutional change.Susan McKay, the Press Ombudsman, chaired the event. The four authors of the report, Dawn Wheatley, Roddy Flynn, Stephen Baker and Phil Ramsey, shared their vision of a Public Se

Send us a textTED SHIRLEY is an author and former British Army sniper. He served two tours in Afghanistan, where he achieved remarkable feats, including shots from over a mile away. Despite these accomplishments, Ted faced a challenging battle with post-traumatic stress disorder upon his return home. The juxtaposition of life on the battlefield as a soldier to a small-town civilian brought new challenges as Ted watched many of his brothers taken by PTSD. Determined to heal and retake control of his life, Ted embarked on a global journey. He explored alternative healing methods and therapies, integrating these approaches with his military experiences and clinical therapies to aid in his recovery.Ted's book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Afghanistan-Sniper-Trauma-Front-Beyond/dp/1036147614Ted's social media: @tedshirleyauthorTo get tickets to Geraint's Voices of Victory event at Aces High: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/102112Geraint's Substack: https://substack.com/@grjbooks?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageVoices of Victory audiobook on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/11UtHCAoD8F0HLxJFe6KT7?si=5d30ecad357e4fa8D-Day: The Unheard Tapes audiobook on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3bHuWcPkCJUfYvNvqx16Ng?si=115aaa0a44d4418fAudible links:https://www.audible.co.uk/author/Geraint-Jones/B06XTKLWBMIf you are interested in being a guest on the podcast please contact us at info@veteranstateofmind.com , or drop us a DM on instagram @veteranstateofmindPlease help us spread the word by telling your mates about the podcast, or by leaving a review/ rating.Support the show

 "You can't just take away someone's right, because you think it's something they can't do." - Hari Budha Magar World Record breaking mountaineer and Pride of Britain winner Hari Budha Magar shares his commitment to defy all odds and continue seeking adventure despite losing his legs in 2010 to an IED in Afghanistan whilst serving with the British Army's Ghurkha regiment. Hari retells his journey to become the first double above-knee amputee to summit the highest mountain on every continent. Despite facing immense physical and mental challenges, Hari shares his mission to inspire others to tackle the "Mount Everests" in their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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On 30 April 1980 six Iranian Arabs seized the Iranian Embassy in the center of London and took 26 people hostage.  They demanded the release of prisoners in Iran and safe passage out of the United Kingdom.  British authorities managed to get five hostages released in return for minor concessions, but time passed, and tensions rose.  On the sixth day, the hostage takers killed one of their captives.  This killing triggered the British to launch an assault to rescue the remaining hostages.  The roughly seventeen-minute assault was carried out by the British Army's Special Air Service.  Since all this took place in the center of London, the six-day siege and assault were viewed by the world.  Ben MacIntyre tells the story in, “The Siege: A Six-Day Hostage Crisis and the Daring Special-Forces Operation That Shocked the World”. 

"He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures." In today's episode, we explore Grievance #11 in the Declaration of Independence, which condemns the deployment of British regular troops in American towns and cities during peacetime. Topics include: -the long British tradition disapproving of standing armies on British soil -the long British tradition of allowing for political protest and dissent without fear of punishment by a standing army -the cooperation between the British Army and Colonial militias during the 7 Years' War -the reasons why King George deemed it necessary to station 10,000 British troops in the North American colonies after the end of the 7 Years' War, namely to manage the conflicts between eager colonists who wanted to expand westward and native peoples who wanted to hold the line -the1768 riots in Boston after the seizure of John Hancock's ship, The Liberty, an event which then prompted the deployment of British troops -the Boston Tea Party of 1773 and the British response to it: the declaration of martial law in 1774 followed by the Coercive Acts aka the Intolerable Acts, which were enforced by General Thomas Gage -an explanation of the phrase "without the consent of our legislatures," which highlights both the role of colonial militias for self-defence and also the importance of the norma of legislative approval for any deployment of troops in the Colonies Prof. Johnson's book can be found here: [Occupied America: British Military Rule and the Experience of Revolution](https://www.pennpress.org/9780812252545/occupied-america/) The cover image is a portrait of Gen. Thomas Gage, commander of British troops in North America until 1775.

“The world is a very volatile place, with currently 110 conflicts globally, and yet healthcare staff in the hospitals, even here in London, are not prepared to be the only clinician who can help in a crisis or hostile setting,” says Dr. David Gough, CEO of the David Nott Foundation, which equips providers with the skills and confidence needed to function in war and other extraordinary situations. A former British Army doctor injured in Afghanistan, Gough brings lived experience as well as a background in tech to his current role at the Foundation, which itself is anchored in decades of field work amassed by its namesake, a renowned war surgeon. As Dr. Gough points out to host Lindsey Smith, the cause could be helped by augmenting medical school curricula, but in the meantime, the Foundation is filling the knowledge gap by using prosthetics, virtual reality simulations and cadavers to train a broad swath of health workers including surgeons, anesthetists, and obstetricians. Tune in to this important Raise the Line conversation as Dr. Gough reflects on the strengths and weaknesses of NGOs in doing this work, his plans to expand the Foundation's footprint in the US, and the gratifying feedback he's received from trainees now operating on the frontlines in Ukraine and elsewhere. Mentioned in this episode:David Nott Foundation If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast

Captain Sir Thomas Moore (30 April 1920 – 2 February 2021), more popularly known as Captain Tom, was a British Army officer and fundraiser. He made international headlines in April 2020 when he raised money for charity in the run-up to his 100th birthday during the COVID-19 pandemic. He served in India and the Burma campaign during the Second World War, and later became an instructor in armoured warfare. After the war, he worked as managing director of a concrete company and was an avid motorcycle racer. On 6 April 2020, at the age of 99 during the first COVID-19 national lockdown, Moore began to walk 100 lengths of his garden in aid of NHS Charities Together, with the goal of raising £1,000 by his 100th birthday on 30 April. In the 24-day course of his fundraising, he made many media appearances and became a household name in the UK, earning a number of accolades and attracting over 1.5 million individual donations.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir ****** "We need to stop regulating the product and start regulating those who misuse it." In this episode of H-Hour, host Hugh Keir interviews Tom Sherwood about his groundbreaking work with Sentra AI, an innovative technology aimed at providing mental health support for veterans and blue-light workers. They discuss Tom's journey from the military to tech, the challenges of tackling PTSD, and the role of AI in enhancing mental resilience and performance. The conversation also touches on data privacy, the resistance from existing charities, and the future of AI in mental health. Tune in for a deep dive into the intersection of technology, mental health, and the need for innovative support systems. https://getsentra.ai/ Tom Sherwood, a British Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sentra AI and a pioneer in trauma-informed, dual-use generative AI for mental health. Sentra AI is a 24/7 AI companion specifically engineered for acute psychological crises and long-term resilience, serving both defence and security forces and civilian populations affected by trauma.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir ****** In this H-Hour Icebreaker, Tom Sherwood and Hugh delve into the multifaceted world of mental health, trauma, and the role of AI. Tom shares his experiences from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, the inception of Sentra AI, and its potential impact on reducing veteran suicides. The discussion also covers mental health stigmas, the complexities of PTSD, and candid thoughts on governmental understanding and handling of AI technology. Enjoy this eye-opening conversation on resilience, innovation, and the future of mental health support. https://getsentra.ai/ Tom Sherwood, a British Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sentra AI and a pioneer in trauma-informed, dual-use generative AI for mental health. Sentra AI is a 24/7 AI companion specifically engineered for acute psychological crises and long-term resilience, serving both defence and security forces and civilian populations affected by trauma.

Arion's favourite episode of 2025 was “Land Rover's Rugged Beginnings” A British motoring icon made its debut at the Amsterdam Motor Show on 30th April, 1948: the Land Rover. The UK's first off-road vehicle (that wasn't a tractor!) had been sketched in sand by its creator, Maurice Wilks.  Heavily inspired by the American Willys Jeep, the first Land Rovers were simple, no-frills workhorses with no roof, no heater, and barely any doors — just half-height flaps to keep you from falling out. And at £450, they were priced for farmers, not aristocrats. But the car soon caught on, with everyone from Winston Churchill to Bob Marley. Despite being noisy, leaky and slow, the Land Rover's charm wasn't about comfort — it was about practicality, reliability, and an unmistakably rugged, "real" vibe that everyone could get behind. In this episode, Arion, Rebecca and Olly unpick how the marque inspired explorers, aid workers, and adventurers; consider why the British Army abandoned the vehicle in the 21st century; and discover why the steering wheel on the first models was placed in the middle… Further Reading: • ‘Why everyone wants a classic Land Rover' (The Times, 2022): https://www.thetimes.com/article/7e9e5d1e-7dec-11ec-b216-7a521e8f125c • ‘Land Rover Design - 70 Years of Success by Nick Hull' (David & Charles, 2018): https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/Land_Rover_Design_70_Years_of_Success/w9IjEQAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=maurice+wilks&pg=PT19&printsec=frontcover • ‘History Of Land Rover: Discover the Amazing Story Behind the Land Rover!' (Land Rover World, 2023): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aV3BIQ6WfR8 #Motoring #Design #40s #UK #Inventions Love the show? Support us!  Join 

The city of St. Petersburg held great significance to the Russian Empire when Peter the Great first built the city in 1703. It was intended to be Russia's "window to the West" and usher in Russia's place as a modern European power. It also replaced Moscow as the capital of the growing empire that stretched across two continents. It was also the site of the Russian Revolution, when the Bolsheviks led by Vladimir Lenin seized power in 1917. Subsequently the city was renamed Leningrad in honor of the founder of the Soviet Union.  During World War II (1939-1945), the city would play a critical role as an unconquerable fortress city that withstood years of siege with the explicit intention of starving its inhabitants into complete submission to Nazi Germany's war aims. The epic story of this saga is the subject of Prit Buttar's To Besiege a City: Leningrad 1941-42 (Osprey Publishing, 2023). Relying upon extensive research into both Soviet and German sources, Prit Buttar chronicles the first few years of the siege in great detail. Prit Buttar is the author of ten critically acclaimed books. His most recent publication was Meat Grinder: The Battles for the Rzhev Salient, 1942–43 (Osprey, 2022). Prit originally studied medicine at Oxford and London before joining the British Army as a doctor. He latterly worked as a General Practitioner for several years. He now writes exclusively from his home in rural Scotland where he can also indulge his hobbies for wildlife and astro photography. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

From Taiwan to Estonia and Latvia, the prospect of World War Three feels closer than ever - that is unless you're one of those people who thinks it's already begun.Peter Apps, Reuters' Global Defence Commentator, is not one of those people, but he does think there is a 30-35% chance of it erupting in the next decade. He talks to Roland and Venetia about what it might look like, where it might start, when and how to prevent it.Peter is a British Army reservist and one of the most plugged in voices on modern warfare. He has reported from around the world, served in the British Army during the Covid pandemic and the Ukraine war, and has just written a new book, The Next World War: The New Age of Global Conflict and the Fight to Stop It.Peter will be speaking about his book at the 2026 Oxford Literary Festival in partnership with The Telegraph. Tickets: oxfordliteraryfestival.org; Telegraph readers can save 20% with the code 26TEL20Producer: Peter ShevlinExecutive Producer: Louisa Wells► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorContact us with feedback or ideas:battlelines@telegraph.co.uk @venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Old Front Line, we explore how individual lives and institutions reveal the human realities of the First World War.We begin by asking why only three officers were Shot at Dawn during the war, and what this striking disparity tells us about military justice, discipline, and class within the British Army.We then turn to the work of the Australian Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau, examining how its innovative and compassionate approach - under the leadership of Vera Deakin - sought to uncover the fate of the missing and bring answers to grieving families.Next, we consider how the experience of war shaped the men who served in the First World War, and question whether their post-war identities and challenges were truly unique, or part of a broader historical pattern.Finally, we analyse the Battle of Manchester Hill in March 1918, assessing its significance and discussing the possible fate of Lieutenant Colonel Wilfrith Elstob VC, who commanded the defence during the German Spring Offensive.Shot at Dawn episode: Shot At Dawn - Old Front Line.Sign up for the free podcast newsletter here: Old Front Line Bulletin.You can order Old Front Line Merch via The Old Front Line Shop.Got a question about this episode or any others? Drop your question into the Old Front Line Discord Server or email the podcast.Send us a textSupport the show

Newt talks with Bernard Cornwell about his latest book, “Sharpe’s Storm: Richard Sharpe and the Invasion of Southern France, 1813.” Cornwell shares the serendipitous start of his writing career, which began when he moved to the United States and decided to write a book due to difficulties in obtaining a work permit. His first novel, "Sharpe’s Eagle," set in 1808, marked the beginning of a series that follows the character Richard Sharpe through various historical battles. Cornwell explains his inspiration for writing about the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars, filling a gap he perceived in historical literature. He also discusses the challenges and intricacies of writing two major series, one about Sharpe and the other about The Saxon Stories, which explore the creation of England. Their conversation touches on historical figures like Wellington, whose military strategies and personal characteristics are vividly brought to life in Cornwell's novels. Cornwell also reflects on his characters, expressing a closer connection to Sharpe due to the character's long-standing presence in his work. He hints at the possibility of future Sharpe novels, though he is currently focused on writing another book in The Saxon Series.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Robert Maxwell (born Ján Ludvík Hyman Binyamin Hoch; 10 June 1923 – 5 November 1991) was a Czechoslovak-born British media proprietor and politician.[1][2] Of Jewish descent, he escaped the Nazi occupation of his native Czechoslovakia and joined the Czechoslovak Army in exile during World War II. He was decorated after active service in the British Army. In subsequent years he worked in publishing, building up Pergamon Press to a major academic publisher. After six years as a Labour Member of Parliament (MP) during the 1960s, Maxwell again put all his energy into business, successively buying the British Printing Corporation, Mirror Group Newspapers and Macmillan Inc., among other publishing companies.