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Message from Steven Chitty on August 24, 2025
Stassi is deep in the English countryside, living out her Jane Austen dreams—but with a side of Taco Bell delivery. Joined by Auntie Al and C-O-Lo, she's juggling parenting, sightseeing, and a few very unexpected roommates (think bats, spiders, and sheep). From winding Cotswold roads and magical villages to pig-in-a-blanket surprises and Amazon packages arriving faster than in L.A., this trip has been anything but ordinary. Along the way, Stassi shares their favorite Cotswold towns, explains why graveyards are secretly joyful, and keeps it real about how social media makes the countryside look picture-perfect—when in reality, it's crowded, messy, and still completely magical.Thanks for supporting our sponsors:Progressive: Visit Progressive.com to see if you could save on car insurance.Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/STASSI for an exclusive offer of 20% offyour first order.Hiya: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal go to hiyahealth.com/STASSI.Audible: Your first great love story is free when you sign up for a free 30-day trial at Audible.com/Stassi Ro: Go to RO.CO/STASSI for your free insurance check.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Everyone deserves time away in a cozy cottage by the sea. This week's sleep story, narrated by a soothing female voice, takes you to the charming village of St. Ives, England. If you enjoyed 'Stormy Night in the Cotswolds,' you'll find comfort in this sleepy tale set in historic Cornwall. Spend the afternoon exploring the harbor and quaint shops before a winding path leads you to an old cottage on the craggy cliffs. As a storm takes hold, you'll nestle by the fire and drift off to the sound of the ocean, soothing rain, and distant thunder. It's time to dream away.
Message from Steven Chitty on August 17, 2025
Maga arrived in Chipping Norton this week, heralding an intense round of British diplomacy ahead of the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska on Friday. Ukraine is top of the agenda and both Prime Minister Keir Starmer and foreign secretary David Lammy have been doing their bit liaising between US vice-president JD Vance and President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and several European leaders. In this week's episode, host George Parker is joined by Europe editor Ben Hall and Whitehall editor David Sheppard to discuss how the UK is playing its hand on the global stage and the role of soft power in its negotiations. The FT Weekend Festival returns for our 10th edition on Saturday September 6 at Kenwood House Gardens in London. Get details and tickets hereFollow George on Bluesky or X: @georgewparker.bsky.social, @GeorgeWParker; Ben Hall @hallbenjamin and David Sheppard @OilSheppardWant to get in touch? Email politicalfix@ft.com Want more? Free links: Putin hails Trump's ‘energetic and sincere' efforts to end Ukraine warZelenskyy faces his ‘moment of maximum pressure'JD Vance to meet Reform's Nigel Farage after talks with Tory MP Robert JenrickGeorge Osborne arranged Cotswolds holiday for JD VanceHow the Bayeux Tapestry became a tool of soft powerSign up here for 30 days free of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter. CLIPS: Manchester Evening NewsPresented by George Parker, and produced by Clare Williamson. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 1914, Miles and guest co-host Pallavi Gunalan are joined by comedian, Shanna Christmas, to discuss… SHUT UP ABOUT EPSTEIN! Trump Now Thinking of Reclassifying Weed…, JD Vance’s Vacation Is The Worst Thing To Happen To The U.K. Since Ellen, There’s A TRIANGLE OF DEATH On Your Face? And more! MAGA Freaks Out Over Trump’s Plot to Reclassify Weed Trump Nemesis Is Bringing Epstein Victims to Capitol to Push for Files Release JD Vance’s English Countryside Vacation: Rolling Hills, Armored SUVs and Cranky Locals JD Vance's motorcade travelling through Chipping Norton. Video by Ed Nix Chaos in the Cotswolds as protests erupt against JD Vance’s holiday in quaint village Anti-JD Vance van drives around Cotswolds as US Vice President holidays in village Ellen DeGeneres clashes with Cotswolds neighbours over extension ‘breach’ at £15m home | The Standard After Being ‘Pushed Out’ of Hollywood, Here’s How Ellen DeGeneres is Starting Over in England (Exclusive) LISTEN: Kneel by Nilüfer YanyaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UK: Vance in the Cotswolds 1917 COTSWOLDS
The US vice-president JD Vance is holidaying with his family in the Cotswold village of Dean. But on the side, he's meeting a phalanx of British politicians. Who's on the roll-call? And what does this tell us about where Trump's possible successor sees the future of British politics?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Josh Glancy, Associate Editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Olivia Case.Read more: JD Vance holds court with top Tories in Cotswolds thanks to George OsborneClips: The Guardian, CNBC, The Jaipur Dialogues, TikTok / iamtomskinner, Sky.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Will facial recognition technology change law enforcement forever? JD Vance has been wooing his British political allies in the Cotswolds, but will a new think-tank deepen US influence in right wing politics? Is the government at risk of losing public support after the Palestine Action arrests? Giles Whittell is joined by the Observer's Whitehall Editor Cat Neilan, News Reporter Jon Ungoed Thomas and Consulting Editor for Comment, Erica Wagner. Links to the team's Must Reads and recommendations here: BlackberryViolent, lawless, broken Britain? The facts tell a different story**We want to hear what you think! Email us at: newsmeeting@observer.co.uk Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, Deputy Editor-In-Chief Producers: Amalie Sortland and Poppy BullardTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Henry Riley, LBC reporter
#LondonCalling: The Cotswolds with the Vances. @JosephSternberg @WSJOpinion
JD Vance has been in the Cotswolds this week on his Britain fantasy tour. This has been billed as a ‘holiday' but he did take the time out of his busy schedule to meet with some of Britain's right-wing politicians. Robert Jenrick, Chris Philp and Nigel Farage were all granted an audience with the vice-president, and even Danny Kruger and pillow salesman/Apprentice star Thomas Skinner got the call-up. The notable exclusion is, of course, Kemi Badenoch, who despite claiming to be firm friends with Vance was NFI'd. CCHQ claim this is due to scheduling, but clearly it's an embarrassing snub. So who is MAGA's favourite UK politician? And do the American right even care about what's going on in Britain?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Freddy Gray.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk
Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Zelensky rules out ceding Donbas region as Russians make fresh advance Starbucks tells customers in South Korea not to bring printers or PCs Wildfires rage across southern Europe as temperatures pass 40C JD Vance meets Robert Jenrick in Cotswolds England enters fourth heatwave as temperatures reach 33C Twin Lamborghinis seized in central London supercar crackdown Real Housewives of London Producers told us to tone down the drama Police given new guidance on releasing suspects nationalities and ethnicities White House to host UFC fight night on 4 July The UK car industry is at a crunch point can it be saved
On Nick Ferrari at Breakfast:The Metropolitan Police deny using 'excessive force' when arresting 522 protestors showing support for Palestine Action this weekend. Nick speaks with Victims Minister Alex Davies-JonesUS Vice President JD Vance holidays on the Cotswolds and meets with Foreign Secretary, David Lammy. All this and more on Nick Ferrari: The Whole Show Podcast.
Message from Steven Chitty on August 10, 2025
Scottish gamekeepers may refuse to help tackle wildfires in a dispute over licences for muirburn. Muirburn is the controlled burning of heather and other vegetation to encourage new growth, mostly to raise game birds for shooting. It takes place from autumn to spring, but from January next year it will be licensed and it will be an offence to carry out any burning without a licence. Gamekeepers say controlled burning reduces the amount of dead vegetation which fuels wildfires and if they can't do it, they say tackling future wildfires will become too dangerous.All week we've been following the harvest. It started early for many and one of the country's largest cherry growers in Herefordshire says warmer winters and summers are shortening the growing season. Britain's newest and largest Green Bridge is under construction in the Cotswolds as part of a half billion-pound road building scheme. When it's completed at the end of the year, the bridge won't be tarmacked - instead it'll be planted with grasses, wildflowers and shrubs designed to create a crossing for wildlife, and walkers over a new eight lane highway near Cheltenham.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney
Nigel Farage hosted a press conference today as part of Reform's summer crime campaign 'Britain is lawless'. He unveiled the latest Tory defector: Leicestershire's Police & Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews. Amidst all the noise of whether crime in the UK is falling or not, plus the impact of migration on crime, is Reform's messaging cutting through? Would US Vice President agree with Farage's message that Britain is lawless? Vance is in the UK, staying in the Cotswolds, as part of his summer holiday. Tim Shipman and Lucy Dunn are joined by James Orr, associate professor at Cambridge University, and a friend of Vance's to talk us through the dynamics between Trump, Vance, Starmer, Lammy and Farage. Does Farage have Vance's ear? Plus: James explains the rationale behind the new Reform-linked think tank that he is leading, saying that the Centre for a Better Britain is about seeking to build a 'politics of national preference'. Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk
On today's REX Daily Podcast, Dom talks with Andrew Hoggard, Associate Agriculture Minister, about the government providing $10 million over the next three years to to help with the eradication of wilding pines and invasive weeds, his recent discussions with Nuffield scholars and his visit to Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat farm in the Cotswolds in England... And he talks with winemaker Jeremy McKenzie from Isabel Estate about its Wild Barrique Chardonnay being crowned Wine of the Year at the prestigious London Wine Competition, his viticulture career and his love of competing in ultra-endurance sporting events such as Godzone and Coast to Coast. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.
Dom talks with Andrew Hoggard, Associate Agriculture Minister, about the government providing $10 million over the next three years to to help with the eradication of wilding pines and invasive weeds, his recent discussions with Nuffield scholars and his visit to Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat farm in the Cotswolds in England. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.
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'Groot Brittannië smeult. Je hoeft de gloeiende as maar een beetje op te porren en de hele boel vat vlam”: zo staat te lezen in het onderzoeksrapport naar de hevige rellen die vorig jaar in Engeland plaatsvonden. Rellen die vijf dagen duurden en in het hele land voor onrust zorgden. Volgens de onderzoekers is Groot Brittannië een jaar later nog steeds ‘een powder keg’, oftewel een vat buskruit. Over racisme gesproken: daar hebben de Engelse voetbalvrouwen afgelopen weken enorm veel last van gehad. Het Engelse team drong door tot de finale van het EK - en wonnen van Spanje. Maar de racistische uitlatingen aan het adres van de Engelse voetbalvrouwen hebben voor het team een flinke stempel gedrukt op het EK. Ook in deze aflevering ‘De Amerikanen hebben een nieuwe regio ontdekt in Engeland en daar kunnen ze geen genoeg van krijgen: De Cotswolds. Sinds de Amerikaanse t.v. personality Ellen Degeneres vanwege de herverkiezing vanTrump naar de regio in zuid-west Engeland emigreerde, volgden steeds meer landgenoten haar voorbeeld. Waar Degeneres vast geen rekening mee heeft gehouden is dat de Amerikaanse vice president JD Vance de Cotswolds heeft uitgekozen om met zijn gezin de zomer door te brengen. Degeneres zal daar vast niet heel blij mee zijn, maar wat vinden de locals van deze Amerikaanse invasie? Over Van Bekhovens Britten In van Bekhovens Britten praten Lia van Bekhoven en Connor Clerx elke week over de grootste nieuwsonderwerpen en de belangrijkste ontwikkelingen in het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Van Brexit naar binnenlandse politiek, van de Royals tot de tabloids. Waarom fascineert het VK Nederlanders meer dan zo veel andere Europese landen? Welke rol speelt het vooralsnog Verenigd Koninkrijk in Europa, nu het woord Brexit uit het Britse leven lijkt verbannen, maar de gevolgen van de beslissing om uit de EU te stappen iedere dag duidelijker worden? De Britse monarchie, en daarmee de staat, staat voor grote veranderingen na de dood van Queen Elisabeth en de kroning van haar zoon Charles. De populariteit van het Koningshuis staat op een dieptepunt. Hoe verandert de Britse monarchie onder koning Charles, en welke gevolgen heeft dat voor de Gemenebest? In Van Bekhovens Britten analyseren Lia en Connor een Koninkrijk met tanende welvaart, invloed en macht. De Conservatieve Partij leverde veertien jaar op rij de premier, maar nu heeft Labour onder Keir Starmer de teugels in handen. Hoe ziet het VK er onder Keir Starmer uit? En hoe gaan de ‘gewone’ Britten, voor zover die bestaan, daar mee om? Al deze vragen en meer komen aan bod in Van Bekhovens Britten. Een kritische blik op het Verenigd Koninkrijk, waar het een race tussen Noord-Ierland en Schotland lijkt te worden wie zich het eerst af kan scheiden van het VK. Hoe lang blijft het Koninkrijk verenigd? Na ruim 45 jaar onder de Britten heeft Lia van Bekhoven een unieke kijk op het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Als inwoner, maar zeker geen anglofiel, heeft ze een scherpe blik op het nieuws, de politiek, de monarchie en het dagelijkse leven aan de overkant van de Noordzee. Elke woensdag krijg je een nieuwe podcast over het leven van Van Bekhovens Britten in je podcastapp. Scherpe analyses, diepgang waar op de radio geen tijd voor is en een flinke portie humor. Abonneer en mis geen aflevering. Over Lia Lia van Bekhoven is correspondent Verenigd Koninkrijk voor onder andere BNR Nieuwsradio, VRT, Knack en Elsevier en is regelmatig in talkshows te zien als duider van het nieuws uit het VK. Ze woont sinds 1976 in Londen, en is naast correspondent voor radio, televisie en geschreven media ook auteur van de boeken Mama gaat uit dansen, het erfgoed van Diana, prinses van Wales (1997), Land van de gespleten God, Noord-Ierland en de troubles (2000), In Londen, 9 wandelingen door de Britse hoofdstad (2009) en Klein-Brittannië (2022).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Message from Steven Chitty on July 27, 2025
Producer Dom opens the Monday Mailbag to bring you two spine-tingling listener encounters that blur the line between the living and the lost.First, Sarah recounts a chilling hike up Mount Snowdon where she and a friend encountered a mysterious man dressed in old-fashioned climbing gear, only to later find a memorial plaque bearing his image.Was it a ghost, a time slip, or something else entirely?Dom dives into the eerie possibility of residual hauntings and time distortions on ancient paths.Then, Jake shares a lantern-lit encounter from the Cotswolds that left him and his sister deeply unsettled. A silent figure with an old lantern walks beside them through the dusk, only to vanish without a trace.When a local casually references “the old shepherd,” the mystery deepens.Is this a ghost still searching the hills for his lost flock?Dom unpacks the emotional weight of these encounters, exploring theories of residual energy, spirits tied to place, and the lingering echoes of past tragedies.Hauntings, legends, and landscapes rich with memory, this episode of Monday Mailtime will leave you looking over your shoulder on your next evening walk.A Create Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Kemi Badenoch is using the last day before the Commons recess to launch a reset of her leadership of the Conservative Party, while Nigel Farage is gearing up to spend his summer talking about crime. Plus: What will JD Vance get up to in the Cotswolds? Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with James Marriott and Sarah Ditum Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Message from Steven Chitty on July 20, 2025
This week, we're asking you whether we should go hiking all over the Cotswold countryside in England! The Cotswold Way is a trail that's over 100 miles long and takes in some of the most charming and quaint villages and towns in the Cotswolds on the way to Bath.Would you like to see us walk the Cotswold Way??
Message from Steven Chitty on July 13, 2025
Slow Horses: Season 2, Episode 3 "Drinking Games" River befriends people in the Cotswolds as he searches for a sleeper agent. Meanwhile, Min finds out the danger of Russian drinking games the hard way. Feedback : blackgirlcouch@gmail.com (audio/written) Tumblr: blackgirlcouch Youtube: ChristinaBCG
Today's guest returned from a 1979 trip visiting English gardens inspired to do some garden-making of his own. His canvas was a northwestern Connecticut hillside and not the Cotswolds, and the home he'd just purchased wasn't a grand manor house... Read More ›
Today's guest returned from a 1979 trip visiting English gardens inspired to do some garden-making of his own. His canvas was a northwestern Connecticut hillside and not the Cotswolds, and the home he'd just purchased wasn't a grand manor house... Read More ›
New proposals to improve water quality in Northern Ireland could prove fatal for pig farming there according to the Ulster Farmers Union. The Nutrients Action Programme aims to reduce agricultural pollution in loughs and rivers and would involve limiting the amount of phosporus and nitrogen that can by spread on the land in slurry. The consultation on the programme has already been extended once and now the UFU says pigs numbers would need to be reduced by as much as 80% if the plans get the go-ahead. Craftsmen are building a new four and half mile dry stone wall in the Cotswolds. Part of one England's biggest road construction projects, the wall will run alongside the new road near Cheltenham. Work started last year and won't be completed until next summer. All week we're looking at shellfish from lobsters and oysters to mussels. The Shellfish Association describes it as an industry with huge untapped potential but producers are still suffering from the loss of trade to Europe since Brexit as exports account for most of their business.Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney
Barnaby Druthers, London's second favorite detective, investigates mysteries with his intellectual partner, Harper Thorne. The “Classic Druthers” stories take place in Victorian London. The “Modern Druthers” stories take place in modern day America. The Barnaby Druthers Audio Theater program and the Barnaby Druthers Mystery Hour are programs that are broadcast on community radio stations across the United States, in Canada and New Zealand. The Tales of Mystery and Adventure are selected short stories formatted specifically for Moonlight Audio Theatre. Ep 2 The Cotswold Spectre When an unusual ghost frightens the local community, Harper Thorne is invited to the Cotswolds to investigate. A midnight visit to the cemetery where the ominous spirit allegedly resides may spell her doom!
Message from Caleb Kreitz on July 6, 2025
You have to be in it to win it, like Richard in the Cotswolds & Sue in Arbroath!
From the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, we speak to Dr Beth Mortimer, from the University of Oxford, who is measuring seismic vibrations to track African elephants' communication.Elephants can feel vibrations through the ground from enormous distances, which can dictate their travelling routes through the savannah.Beth and her team buried 1,200 seismic nodes underground to measure the ground vibrations, which are more commonly used to study things like earthquakes and volcanoes.Archaeologists working on an excavation site in the UK's Cotswolds have discovered evidence of an Iron Age-Roman settlement.This comes after the find of two iron Roman cavalry swords.Plus, researchers in Spain say that even the softest of veg can damage our teeth, too.Also in this episode:-Jarvis Cocker marks the 100-year anniversary of the Shipping Forecast.-Why you may want to send a few more emojis to your loved ones... -The lost voices of monks to be heard again after 500 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Jane and Fi's last episode together for two weeks, they bounce from the Cotswolds to Wollongong to Crete. They also peruse Fi's last six Google searches and ponder estate agent jargon. Please note: this episode also comes with an accent warning—proceed with caution! Plus, Dr. Jack Mosley, son of the late Michael Mosley, discusses his book Food Noise: How Weight Loss Medications & Smart Nutrition Can Silence Your Cravings.If you want to come and see us at Fringe by the Sea, you can buy tickets here: www.fringebythesea.com/fi-jane-and-judy-murray/And if you fancy sending us a postcard, the address is:Jane and FiTimes Radio, News UK1 London Bridge StreetLondonSE1 9GFIf you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioThe next book club pick has been announced! We'll be reading Leonard and Hungry Paul by Rónán Hession.Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this powerful and soul-nourishing conversation, HeatherAsh welcomes beloved teacher, osteopath, and shamanic guide, Cissi Williams, to the podcast. Together, they explore the profound teachings behind Cissi's new book Your Heart Knows How to Heal You.Cissi shares the deeply personal story of her spiritual awakening after a heart attack, and how it led her into the mythic, embodied landscape of healing through the feminine. From witnessing ancestral wounding in the chambers of her heart to receiving fierce guidance from the Norse goddesses, Cissi offers a brave and beautiful roadmap for transforming pain into power.This episode is an invitation to stop trying to “fix” yourself—and instead begin listening with humility, reverence, and curiosity to the wisdom that already lives inside you.Key ThemesShamanic healing through the heartAncestral wisdom in the bodyFeminine descent & rebirthMyth as a guide for transformationListening to the soul, not fixing the selfAwakening the Wise Woman withinSurrender as spiritual practiceAbout CissiCissi Williams is a Swedish-born Osteopath, Naturopath, and Shamanic Practitioner who bridges science and spirit through her work in energy medicine, mysticism, and Norse shamanic healing. Initiated as a Priestess of Freyja and Tradition Keeper of the Völva, she weaves together grounded bodywork, NLP, hypnosis, and soul-deep wisdom. With over 25,000 healing sessions and a widely loved podcast and body of written work, Cissi has guided hundreds of thousands to connect with their inner knowing. Her ancestral roots span the Sami people of Lapland, the Vikings, and the ancient Celts. She now lives with her husband and two daughters in a small village in the Cotswolds, England. Her new book, Your Heart Knows How to Heal You: The Sacred Medicine of the Four Chambers of the Heart, is available now.Connect with CissiGet Cissi's book: Your Heart Knows How to Heal YouLearn more about Cissi: www.cissiwilliams.com
Today on Wonderland on Points, we're heading out of the city and into the storybook charm of the English countryside! Jo shares all the highlights from her family's recent road trip through two of England's most picturesque regions: the Cotswolds and the Yorkshire Dales (with a fun little national park detour in between). From booking flights with points to tackling the adventure of renting a car and driving on the “wrong” side of the road, she walks through exactly how they made this dream trip happen—without blowing the budget.You'll hear about the magic of the Cotswolds, where each village felt like stepping into a Jane Austen novel, and the peaceful charm of Tewkesbury, including a visit to the breathtaking Tewkesbury Abbey. Joanna also talks about exploring the Yorkshire Dales on horseback, a highlight that brought a whole new perspective to the stunning scenery. Traveling by car gave their family the flexibility to chase spontaneous detours and discover unexpected gems along the way.Whether you're dreaming of a countryside getaway or already planning your own English road trip, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration for seeing the UK beyond the big cities—creating family memories that will last a lifetime.Submit Your Summer Road Trip Series Story HEREFacebook GroupOur Episode SponsorsTour Radar MomentsFirefly Recovery - Use code "WONDERLAND" for 15% off your orderFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoHelpful LinksTripiamo for the UK (if you need driving guides for other places let us know! We have links for you!)Affiliate LinksMary Ellen's Chase Sapphire LinkJoanna's Chase Sapphire Link30% off the CardPointers subscription!Credit Card Affiliate LinksThe above link includes referrals for Capital One Travel Cards. If you need AMEX or Chase please reach out and we would be happy to send you our personal referral links.We receive a small commission when you use our links. This is an amazing way to show your support for the show at no cost to you ❤️
Message from Steven Chitty on June 29, 2025
Dreaming of meandering through the Cotswolds countryside or cruising along Scotland's North Coast 500? Before you grab those keys, there's crucial information you need to know about driving in the UK that could make or break your road trip experience.The romantic notion of spontaneously exploring Britain's charming villages and stunning landscapes can quickly turn stressful when faced with the reality of narrow country lanes, baffling roundabouts, and parking nightmares. Having driven thousands of miles across the UK and helped countless travellers plan their journeys, we've witnessed the same mistakes happening time and again.In this practical guide, we reveal the 15 most common UK driving pitfalls and how to avoid them. From the shocking truth about journey times (that 50-mile drive could take twice as long as you think!) to the critical importance of booking an automatic car well in advance, we cover essential knowledge that guidebooks often miss. We'll explain why driving in London is a mistake most travellers regret, how to navigate the UK's unique parking systems, and why checking if your accommodation actually has parking facilities could save your holiday from disaster.Whether you're used to driving on the left or not, the UK presents unique challenges that can catch even experienced international drivers off guard. We share insider advice on handling motorway driving, understanding road terminology, and preparing for the infamous British weather. Plus, we reveal the truth about rental car insurance and why paying extra for zero excess might be the best decision you make.Our goal isn't to discourage you – a UK road trip can be truly magical when done right. With proper planning and realistic expectations, you'll be free to enjoy those winding coastal roads and picturesque villages without the stress. Listen now to transform your UK driving experience from potentially nerve-wracking to absolutely brilliant!
Are you ready to unlock the true magic of hosting in the Airbnb and short-term rental world? In this heartfelt episode of The STR Sisterhood podcast, I sit down with the amazing Jodie Odlin—the visionary behind the global Hospitable Hosts movement. What started as a leap of faith in the Cotswolds has grown into a worldwide celebration of heart-led hosting and elevated guest experiences. We dive deep into what hospitality really means—and spoiler alert: it's not just about clean linens or five-star reviews. It's about human connection. It's about storytelling. It's about showing up with soul and creating spaces that leave a lasting impact on every guest who walks through your door. Jodie shares how following her intuition and leading with love helped her turn a single short-term rental into something far greater—a movement that's redefining what it means to be a host. We also chat about the bold new STR Sisterhood Edition of Hospitable Hosts—a one-of-a-kind collaboration featuring 40 powerhouse women in the short-term rental industry. This isn't just another book. It's a movement rooted in empowerment, authenticity, and purpose-driven hosting. Whether you're an Airbnb host, a short-term rental investor, or simply someone who believes in the power of hospitality to change lives, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with heart—and scale with soul. Want to become a featured author in the STR Sisterhood Edition of Hospitable Hosts? Get all the details here: https://www.hospitablehosts.com/HHSTRSisterhoodEdition Let this episode remind you: Hosting isn't just a business model—it's a calling. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:23] A short introduction about our guest Jodie Odlin and how she got started in the world of short-term rentals [10:09] Jodie shares how the idea for Hospitable Hosts was born [14:34] How publishing the Hospitable Hosts books transformed Jodie's life [22:27] Jodie highlights the powerful shift from “trying” to deciding and how taking committed action must also align with the season of life you're in [28:36] How contributing to Hospitable Hosts Volume One sparked my journey I never imagined – writing my own book [35:10] Jodie highlights the transformational ripple effect of storytelling, how contributing even one chapter can unlock purpose and confidence, and encourages everyone [40:27] Jodie and I announce our newest collaboration—Hospitable Hosts: STR Sisterhood Edition—a global anthology celebrating the personal and professional journeys of women in the short-term rental space [45:06] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Hospitality skills are a learned skill.” “Trust your gut and your intuition. I call it your GodRod. Your GodRod will lead you, naturally and organically to people and opportunities that you may not have had in your five year plan.” “People do get too caught up in when they're so set on these five year plans, and it doesn't happen, they get disappointed. Don't see it as a disappointment. See what was the opportunity that you could have learned from.” “Just think big, Be open. Be open to everything.” This episode is brought to you by Lodgify! Ready to take control of your vacation rental business? With Lodgify, you can build your own direct booking website and manage all your reservations in one place — no middleman, no extra fees.
Message from Steven Chitty on June 15, 2025
It may feel like the world is going to hell, but for Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez, it's a Bonfire of the Vanities moment. In a little less than two weeks, the billionaire and his fiancée will take over Venice for the wedding that will be a three-day party, and Stuart Heritage tells us what we can expect. Then, speaking of the ultra-rich seizing control of beautiful destinations, Joseph Bullmore reports from the Cotswolds on how Stephen Schwarzman, the billionaire chairman and C.E.O. of Blackstone, has ruffled feathers among locals. And finally, there might have been no fashion designer more beloved in New York City than the late Kate Spade. The company's co-founder, Elyce Arons, has written a book about her, and she'll discuss how Spade went from being a broke student in Kansas to the name on every New York woman's purse.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This week on RunPod, Jenni is joined by none other than Mark Pougatch - Chief Sports Presenter for ITV Sport and co-host of the brand-new Global Original Podcast 'How It All Played Out'. Mark shares how running sets the tone for his day: if he's ticked off his morning run, everything else feels like a bonus! Whether it's hitting the trails with his wife and one of their three dogs or soaking in the Cotswolds countryside, running has become an essential part of his routine.Mark talks about his goal to get fitter, the importance of mobility, and his incredible career in sport. He also gives us a sneak peek into How It All Played Out, where he and Paul Hayward dive deep into the victories, controversies, and unforgettable moments that shaped the sporting world.Tune in for a chat full of inspiration, passion for sport, and the undeniable joy of putting one foot in front of the other.How It All Played Out is out now on Global Player
Message from Steven Chitty on June 8, 2025
Claire and Rachel are joined by Dr. Sarah C. Williams for an engaging conversation about marriage, sex and gender throughout Christian history. Beginning with reflection on the 1960s to today, Sarah shares some insights from her upcoming summer class on the relationship between Christianity and the ever-shifting cultural matrix of political, societal and phenomenological values that shape our understanding of marriage, celibacy, sex and gender identity. In particular, Sarah reflects on the commodification of sex and the pornography industry from systemic perspectives that move beyond pastoral conversations around personal addiction. She also shares a little about her recent work on Josephine Butler, When Courage Calls, which she will launch with us on July 2.Sarah's BioDr. Sarah C. Williams is a historian, writer, and storyteller, specializing in 19th- and 20th-century cultural and religious history. Sarah trained as a historian at the University of Oxford, where she subsequently taught for seven years. In 2005, Sarah moved with her family to Vancouver to teach the History of Christianity at Regent College. After teaching at Regent full-time for over a decade, Sarah returned to the UK with her husband, Paul, to live in the Cotswolds, where she continues to write and research. Sarah is a passionate and committed teacher who is much loved by her students. She has written and edited numerous academic articles and books. Her most recent book is When Courage Calls: Josephine Butler and the Radical Pursuit of Justice for Women (Hodder & Stoughton, 2024). She'll be joining us in July (7-11) to teach Marriage, Sex and Gender in Historical Perspective.Previous Podcast AppearancesA New Language for the Sexual Crisis of Our Generation (July 2019)Summer Podcast Listener SurveyPlease fill out our Listener Survey before the end of July for the opportunity to win a $100 Regent College Bookstore Gift Card.Regent College Podcast Thanks for listening. Please like, rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice and share this episode with a friend. Follow Us on Social Media Facebook Instagram Youtube Keep in Touch Regent College Summer Programs Regent College Newsletter
Well, cue all the tears, team. This episode is full of them. It felt like it was time for a life update, so this episode catches you up on all the big happenings and some of the littler ones too. The biggest one is our eldest son's engagement to the love of his life, and a girl he's known since they were both 5. It's the sweetest story and I loved sharing some of it with you in this episode. The rest of the episode is full of other life updates—trips and conferences where maybe we'll get to hang out! And also, yes, why I changed my Instagram handle after 10 + years. There is a lot here and you'll want to check the show notes to links for all the things. As always, thanks for listening and being a part of my community. It means the world! Links mentioned in this podcast episode: Find out more information about Forest Home Family Camp here. Mention my name for the 1st time family discount! Message Greta to get tickets to the Literature Soirée or with questions here. (scroll to bottom of page) Find out more about Greta's women's walking retreat through the Cotswolds here Make sure you are keeping up with Greta and her new Instagram handle here Check out Greta's beautiful new website here The Greta Eskridge Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
In episode 152 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, guest Kristen Gonzalez shares her eight-day family adventure through England with her husband and parents in their late 70s, highlighting their experiences in London and the Cotswolds during April. She details their thoughtful planning process, excellent transportation arrangements with XFA Cars, and memorable tours including Go Cotswolds excursions (enter code UKTAVPLAN for a 5% discount for our UKTP community) and a Seven Sisters coastal day trip from London.• Choosing the Cotswolds and London combination to showcase diverse aspects of England• Using private transfers instead of driving or navigating train connections• Taking two different Go Cotswolds tours to maximise exploration of picturesque villages• Staying in Covent Garden as the perfect London base with excellent dining and entertainment options• Finding the ideal balance between scheduled tours and free time for spontaneous exploration• Enjoying unique experiences like a historic Royal Pub tour, afternoon tea on a bus, and Tower Bridge's glass floor walkways• Discovering Mr. Fogg's Society of Exploration for cocktails and small plates in London• Visiting the Seven Sisters cliffs and Brighton on a well-organised day trip from LondonKristen also offers invaluable tips for travel planning, particularly on booking ahead. Tune in for practical advice, inspiring stories, and plenty of laughs to help you plan your own perfect UK getaway!⭐️ Guest - Kristen Gonzalez
Hamish Jackson is a potter from England, and he started potting at Winchcombe Pottery in the Cotswolds. Hammish got married to his lovely American wife, Lauren and moved to the states about six years ago. Hamish completed a four year apprenticeship under Mark Hewitt and is now headed off to USU for grad school. http://ThePottersCast.com/1135