Podcasts about Waterstones

If we were to step back in time on to the blood-soaked sand of the Roman gladiatorial arena, what would we uncover about society, power and entertainment in the ancient civilisation? Speaking to Rachel Dinning, historian Harry Sidebottom guides us through 24 hours in the arena, revealing what life was really like for the gladiators that fought there – and for the crowds who came to spectate.  (Ad) Harry Sidebottom is the author of Those Who Are About To Die: Gladiators and the Roman Mind (Cornerstone, 2025). Buy it from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthose-who-are-about-to-die%2Fharry-sidebottom%2F9781529154009. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode Simon and Rachel speak to the novelist Dean Koontz. The author of over 120 books, Dean is published in 38 countries and has sold 500m copies to date. His suspense thrillers blend science fiction, horror, crime and comedy. Fourteen of Dean's novels - including "One Door Away From Heaven", "The Bad Place" and "77 Shadow Street" - have reached #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. His titles have also been major bestsellers in countries as diverse as Japan and Sweden. Many of his books, including "Whispers," "Demon Seed" and "Odd Thomas", have been made into films too. We spoke to Dean about the role of books as an escape during a difficult childhood, the challenges of navigating agents and editors, especially early in his career, and his latest novel, "Going Home in the Dark". Alongside listening to us in audio as usual, the podcast is now available on video. You can check us out, and get a glimpse of Dean's adorable golden retriever, on YouTube under Always Take Notes.  We've made another update for those ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠who support the podcast on the crowdfunding site Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We've added 40 pages of new material to the package of successful article pitches that goes to anyone who supports the show with $5 per month or more, including new pitches to the New York Times, the Washington Post and the BBC. The whole compendium now runs to a whopping 160 pages. For Patreons who contribute $10/month we're now also releasing bonus mini-episodes. Thanks to our sponsor, Scrivener, the first ten new signs-ups at $10/month will receive a lifelong license to Scrivener worth £55/$59.99 (seven are left). This specialist word-processing software helps you organise long writing projects such as novels, academic papers and even scripts. Other Patreon rewards include signed copies of the podcast book and the opportunity to take part in a monthly call with Simon and Rachel. A new edition of “Always Take Notes: Advice From Some Of The World's Greatest Writers” - a book drawing on our podcast interviews - is available now. The updated version now includes insights from over 100 past guests on the podcast, with new contributions from Harlan Coben, Victoria Hislop, Lee Child, Megan Nolan, Jhumpa Lahiri, Philippa Gregory, Jo Nesbø, Paul Theroux, Hisham Matar and Bettany Hughes. You can order it via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Waterstones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why are we so spooked – and yet so fascinated – by things that go bump in the night? And can science really prove that ghouls exist? Alice Vernon talks to Jon Bauckham about the evolution of ghost-hunting over the past 200 years, and how tales of pesky poltergeists and ectoplasm-filled séances have turned even some of the hardest sceptics into true believers. (Ad) Alice Vernon is the author of Ghosted: A History of Ghost Hunting and Why We Keep Looking (Bloomsbury, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fghosted%2Falice-vernon%2F9781399418706. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With just a few days left in “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day Boost,” Klaudia Mitura brings you W for Wonder—inviting you to stay curious and keep learning. Klaudia shares how experiencing amazement at the world around you expands your perspective, boosts empathy, lowers stress, and increases life satisfaction. She offers practical tips for cultivating wonder at any age, like setting a weekly reminder for micro-learning. Listen to the full episode and keep your sense of wonder alive!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Household stationery isn't “our precious pens and paper in our study” — it's the everyday tools that keep a home ticking. We talk freezer-proof labels, kitchen whiteboards, year-at-a-glance calendars we forget to update, junk-drawer essentials, elastic bands vs Velcro ties for cables, and even a full Kanban wall system that helps a building business run. Plus: Magic Click (a colour-pen system we need help decoding), why shrink-wrap on notebooks should be illegal, and the enduring magic of handwritten notes in old recipe books.What We CoverLabelling the real world: freezer labels that don't fall off, pens that actually write on them, and why chalk pens disappointed.Whiteboards at home: revision, “blurting” study technique, and why office whiteboards triple in size the moment they enter a house.Family calendars: wall planners vs Google Calendar; how to stop answering “What's for tea?” 47 times.The junk drawer: string, Sellotape ends, last 3 Post-its, elastic bands—and occasionally £40.Cable wrangling: elastic bands vs Velcro ties (and cats stealing the Velcro).Kitchen Kanban: a visual, Post-it based board for a builder's workload (columns from “mentioned” to “invoiced”).Notes on doors: Berlin-style paper rolls to leave messages (and why phones killed the habit).Measuring kids' growth: doorframe ticks vs logging in Apple Notes.Sticky label removal: we've tried dishwasher runs, washing-up liquid, alcohol… still tacky! (Your hacks welcome.)Brands behaving oddly: a Moleskine “travel case” too small for a Cahier; shrink-wrapped notebooks you can't test.Why we love marginalia: old cookbooks and Reader's Digest repair manuals with handwritten tweaks.Content recommendations: Andrew Huberman's interview with Steven Pressfield (resistance, turning pro, doing the work).Event tease: Rob & Helen at a November stationery event (with a shop… send help).Listener Shout-OutsLisa (In Berlin, in a kitchen): topic idea + brilliant list — thank you Lisa!Nat: for sending Magic Click (and introducing us to Barbara Thames' creativity/play angle).Anonymous newsletter supporter: your generosity genuinely helps keep this ad-free. Thank you!Resources & MentionsMagic Click colour-pen system — creator Barbara Tammes (if you've used it, tell us how!).Label makers: DYMO.Notebooks & shops: Moleskine, Waterstones, Dingbats (reporter), Tom's Studio (pens & inks).Other: Vinted (finds), Nokia notebooks at a conference, Reader's Digest Repair Manuals, The Newt (Somerset).Podcasts: Steven Pressfield — The War of Art, Turning Pro; Dr Andrew Huberman interview with Steven Pressfield.Where to Find UsNewsletter & archive: stationeryfreaks.com → SubstackInstagram: @stationeryfreaksukSay hello / ideas: via the website or Insta DMs

It's Day 22 of “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day Boost,” and Klaudia Mitura spotlights V for Values—your inner compass for making choices and finding fulfillment. Klaudia explains how living true to your core values like kindness, growth, or integrity leads to greater happiness and wellbeing. She shares a practical framework to help you identify and reflect on the values that guide your life, encouraging honest self-discovery over outside expectations. Listen to the full episode for actionable strategies and inspiration!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

We're nearly at the finish line of “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-Boost”—it's Day 21, and Klaudia Mitura is celebrating your support as the big book launch approaches! Today's letter is U for Uncertainty, a topic everyone faces. Klaudia discusses why uncertainty can be even more stressful than predictable setbacks, but also how embracing the unknown fuels growth, creativity, and new opportunities. With insights from business coach Caroline Pankhurst, Klaudia shares a practical technique: imagine your best-case scenario and focus on the positive possibilities.Listen to the full episode for science-backed strategies and real-life inspiration!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

This week we relive our festival, Love & Beer, muse about the idea of the CBC Awards, and dig a bit too deep in Dunderwasser.WATCH THIS WEEK'S VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmJo-tCM-0ASupport the showBrought to you by the team behind the Craft Beer Channel, The Bubble is a weekly podcast that gives you a way to wind down with your first beer of the weekend. Dig into craft beer, film and music culture as well as hearing what's going on in the wild world of Beer Tubing.BUY JONNY'S NEW BOOK! SIGNED COPIES: https://www.davids-bookshops.co.uk/products/the-meaning-of-beer-by-jonny-garrett-signed-pre-orderAMAZON: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meaning-Beer-Jonny-Garrett/dp/1838959947/WATERSTONES: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-meaning-of-beer/jonny-garrett/9781838959944SUPPORT US! Pledge on Patreon and get some cool merch & videos: https://www.patreon.com/craftbeerchannel Check out our awesome sponsor The Malt Miller: https://www.themaltmiller.co.uk/ Twitter – @beerchannelFacebook – http://www.facebook.com/thecraftbeerchannelInstagram – @craftbeerchannel

Welcome back to “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day challenge,” celebrating Klaudia Mitura's new book and counting down to the big launch party! Today's letter is T for Time—how to spend it wisely for a more balanced, fulfilling life. Klaudia discusses how our focus on the past, present, or future shapes our happiness and why finding balance between these perspectives is key. Listen to learn more. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

I have just released dates for All Things IC Live 2026. Our popular quarterly masterclass and mastermind will be taking place on 11 March, 13 May, 9 September and 9 December 2026. These are in-person days in London, UK and if you are working in-house you're welcome to join us. This latest episode of my Candid Comms podcast looks at what All Things IC Live is, how it works and what you can expect. See the All Things IC Live site to book a ticket, read what your peers think and sign up to join us. Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast See the All Things IC Inner Circle page of Rachel's website to find out more about the next cohort: https://www.allthingsic.com/1-2-1/the-all-things-ic-inner-circle/ Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop.  Useful links: Explore the All Things IC Live website and purchase tickets Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC. 

Today's episode of “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day Boost” spotlights S for Self-Image, focusing on being mindful of social comparison and social media use. Klaudia Mitura discusses how comparing ourselves to others—especially online—can harm our self-esteem and happiness, but also how we can turn comparison into inspiration and use social media intentionally. Today's tip: set three personal principles for your social media use to support a healthier self-image and spend more time on activities that truly boost your wellbeing. Listen to the full episode!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

It's Day 18 of “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day Boost,” where Klaudia Mitura shares daily, science-backed happiness tips as we count down to her book launch at the Science Museum in London. Today's letter is R for Resilience—how to endure, recover, and ask for help. Klaudia challenges the idea that resilience is just about pushing through, and instead highlights the importance of realistic strategies like seeking support and taking time to recover.Today's tip: build resilience by reflecting on positive memories, learning new skills, nurturing relationships, and creating a personal resilience checklist. Listen to the full episode!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

It's Day 17 of “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day Boost,” where Klaudia Mitura shares daily, science-backed tips for boosting happiness—one for every letter, as we count down to her book launch at the Science Museum in London. Today's letter is Q for Questions, focusing on the power of self-reflection. Klaudia explains how asking thoughtful questions helps us understand ourselves, make better decisions, and increase happiness—without falling into rumination. Today's action: invite someone you care about for a reflective walk, and use meaningful questions to deepen your connection. Want to learn more about harnessing self-reflection for happiness? Listen to the full episode!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

On this episode of Currently Reading, Meredith and Kaytee are discussing: Bookish Moments: accidental reads and jumbled audiobooks Current Reads: all the great, interesting, and/or terrible stuff we've been reading lately Deep Dive: the way we buy books while traveling The Fountain: we visit our perfect fountain to make wishes about our reading lives Show notes are time-stamped below for your convenience. Read the transcript of the episode (this link only works on the main site). .  .  .  . 1:29 - Our Bookish Moments of the Week 2:56 - Soul of the Deep by Natasha Bowen 2:58 - Sing Me to Sleep by Gabi Burton 4:16 - City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab 7:44 - Our Current Reads 7:54 - A Lady's Formula for Love by Elizabeth Everett (Kaytee) 8:04 - The Novel Neighbor  10:47 - Magic and Mischief at the Wayside Hotel by Elizabeth Everett 11:29 - The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline (Meredith) 13:33 - What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline  17:07 - Raceless by Georgina Lawton (Kaytee) 19:58 - The Places That Scare You by Pema Chodron (Meredith) 29:03 - The In-Between Bookstore by Edward Underhill (Kaytee) 31:56 - Royal Gambit by Daniel O'Malley (Meredith) 34:07 - The Rook by Daniel O'Malley 34:11 - Stiletto by Daniel O'Malley 34:41 - The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett 37:33 - Rivers of London (Midnight Riot) by Ben Aaronovitch 38:37 - Travel and Book Buying 41:33 - Waterstones 49:26 - The Foldie 51:33 - North Woods by Daniel Mason (UK version) 51:39 - The Rook by Daniel O'Malley (UK version) 53:33 - Bookshop 55:56 - Topping & Company 57:50 - Fabled Bookshop 59:23 - Meet Us At The Fountain 59:27 - I wish for a real life excuse note due to reading weather. (Kaytee) 1:00:31 - I wish you would prioritize visiting that local bookstore you've been meaning to visit. (Meredith) 1:01:11 - The Painted Porch Bookshop   Support Us: Become a Bookish Friend | Grab Some Merch Shop Bookshop dot org | Shop Amazon Bookish Friends Receive: The Indie Press List with a curated list of five books hand sold by the indie of the month. October's IPL takes us back to one of our anchor stores, The Novel Neighbor in St. Louis, Missouri. Love and Chili Peppers with Kaytee and Rebekah - romance lovers get their due with this special episode focused entirely on the best selling genre fiction in the business.  All Things Murderful with Meredith and Elizabeth - special content for the scary-lovers, brought to you with the behind-the-scenes insights of an independent bookseller From the Editor's Desk with Kaytee and Bunmi Ishola - a quarterly peek behind the curtain at the publishing industry The Bookish Friends Facebook Group - where you can build community with bookish friends from around the globe as well as our hosts Connect With Us: The Show: Instagram | Website | Email | Threads The Hosts and Regulars: Meredith | Kaytee | Mary | Roxanna Production and Editing: Megan Phouthavong Evans Affiliate Disclosure: All affiliate links go to Bookshop unless otherwise noted. Shopping here helps keep the lights on and benefits indie bookstores. Thanks for your support!

In today's episode of “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day Boost,” Klaudia Mitura explores P for Play and why fun isn't just for kids! Discover how play, rooted deep in our evolution, is essential for adult happiness—reducing stress, boosting creativity, and strengthening social bonds. Klaudia shares practical ways to bring playful moments into your daily routine, like habit stacking, to quickly lift your mood. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

What role does artificial intelligence (AI) play inside organisations? How can we set ourselves up for success? In this podcast episode you'll discover one thing to know, one thing to do and one thing to think about, when it comes to AI implementation and communication. Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast See the All Things IC Inner Circle page of Rachel's website to find out more about the next cohort: https://www.allthingsic.com/1-2-1/the-all-things-ic-inner-circle/ Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop.  Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC. 

Join Klaudia Mitura, work psychologist and Chief Happiness Officer, as she celebrates the launch of her new book, “The Alphabet of Happiness,” with a 26-day boost—one letter at a time! Today Klaudia highlights O for Ordinary, encouraging listeners to appreciate simple, everyday joys. While society often celebrates the extraordinary, Klaudia explains that ordinary moments—like a cup of tea or a warm bath—are actually the foundation of lasting happiness and even linked to a longer life. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Today we find out about the ski resort of St Johann in Tirol, plus we celebrate all things après ski, with a look at the fashions and styles of après over the years, some of the best spots to visit and even how to make your own après cocktails.  We also have updates from Freddy, Zac and Luca Carrick-Smith – the GB Snowsport skiers that we sponsor – a report from the Icebreaker City Skim and your feedback. Iain was joined by Erin Isakov, founder of the clothing brand Erin Snow and author of the new book ‘Après Ski: The Scene, the Style, the Menu', and St Johann in Tirol local, Fritz Minhard, owner of the tour operator Active World Holidays, ---------  Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means that this winter we'll be able to find out more about some of the great destinations in Tirol, and how you can connect with the wonderful ‘feeling of life' there. --------- SHOW NOTES Deer Valley is going through a terrain expansion (2:45) Fritz skied on the glacier in Hintertux (4:00) Solden will host the the first World Cup races of the season (4:30) Freddy Carrick-Smith will become the youngest male GB skier to race in the World Cup for 40 years (4:45) Zak Carrick-Smith is training in Solden (6:00) Luca Carrick-Smith is training in Pitztal (6:45) Find out more about the London Snow Show (7:30) Get free tickets to the London Snow Show (8:20) Amelie from Jibworx was on the podcast in Episode 245 (8:45) Find out about the Icebreaker City Skim in London (9:00) Fritz Minhard has lived in St Johann in Tirol all his life (11:45) Travel to St Johann in Tirol is easy, either by plane or by train (12:45) "Best Tourism Village - only location in Austria to receive an award from UN Tourism (14:30) My Yapadu means “happiness on your holiday” (15:00) St Johann in Tirol is great for families (16:30) There are 18 mountain huts (17:00) Dumplings are a speciality (17:45) Try the ‘Kaiserschmarrn' (18:15) There are 3 free beginners ski areas (19:30) There are 170km of cross-country trails (20:15) The Dynafit Ski Touring Park is also open on some evenings (21:15) Hiking and snowshoeing (23:00) Try the Flying Fox zipwire (23:30) Adults may enjoy the Schnapps Distillery (24:15) St Johann in Tirol is “a living town” (25:30) Erin first skied in Mammoth Mtn in California (26:45) The clothing brand Erin Snow started in the early 2000s (29:30) ‘A nostalgia-fueled visual celebration of all things après-ski' (34:00) How the book came about (35:00) The arrival of nylon (40:00) The 'vintage revival' (41:45) Erin researched apres drinks such as Bombardino (43:00) Après Ski: The Scene, the Style, the Menu is available at Waterstones (44:30) Feedback (44:45) I always enjoy listener feedback and I love to hear what you think about the show. You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to theskipodcast@gmail.com  You can also follow us on WhatsApp for exclusive material released ahead of the podcast. Look in the Show Notes for that link. Gareth Ebbage: “Episode 252 was great: one of the best you've done. Very insightful look back to the glory days of the 80's and early 90's!” Rob Smith: “I think Episode 252 is my favourite so far. It brought back some great memories from when I started to ski.” Richard Patey: “I've been enjoying your podcasts as I drive across Europe to where I'm living now in the high Tatras of Slovakia.” There are now 277 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. All you need to do is go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you're bound to find something of interest. If you'd like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do:  -          you can follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode -          you can give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify -          And, if you're booking ski hire this winter, don't forget that you save money on your ski hire with an additional discount by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST' when you book at intersportrent.com. Simply take this link in the show notes for your discount to be automatically applied. 

It's Day 13 of the 26-day boost for Klaudia Mitura's new book, “The Alphabet of Happiness”!In today's episode, Klaudia explores N for Nature, highlighting the powerful impact of reconnecting with the natural world. She shares research on how spending time in nature lowers stress, boosts mood, and even strengthens the immune system.Today's simple action: spend time outdoors and try “colour therapy” by noticing the variety of colours in your surroundings—like spotting different shades of green in a park—to amplify nature's happiness-boosting effects.Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

We meet Rose Blake an illustrator and artist making drawings and pictures in London who has just illustrated Russell & Robert's first children'sbook Art School (In A Book). Rose Blake studied at Kingston University and the Royal College of Art. She was awarded the D&AD Best New Blood Award and was shortlisted for the AOI prize and The World Illustration Awards. She shows with the Rebecca Hossack Gallery, and has had two solo show there; ‘Now I Am An Artist' in 2015 and ‘Sing Swim Ok Moon' in 2018. She is a Visiting Lecturer at Kingston University on the Illustration and Animation BA.Art School (In A Book) is out on Thursday 23rd October 2025. Pre-order now from Amazon, Waterstone's and Bookshop.orgAn exciting introduction to the world of contemporary art for young creatives from the makers of hit podcast Talk Art, actor Russell Tovey and gallerist Robert Diament.Do you love art and want to know more but don't know where to start? Introducing Art School (in a book), a virtual gallery where you can see the most exciting contemporary artists of today, as well as some of the greatest from the twentieth century, including Henri Matisse, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Frida Kahlo.And who are the visionaries, the icons, the ones to watch now? With works by Tracey Emin, Antony Gormley, and David Hockney, study the art of 20 key artists working today, find out what inspires them, how they work and the meaning behind their art.With Russell and Robert as your guides you will also discover the artist within you, with tips on new ways of seeing and reacting to the world around you and guidance on how you can develop your own creativity.Buy Art School from Waterstone's: https://www.waterstones.com/book/art-school-in-a-book/russell-tovey/robert-diament/9781510231412Follow @IAmRoseBlake on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Antonia Hodgson is a novelist, screenwriter, former publisher and now, fantasy author. She made her name writing historical crime. Her debut, 'The Devil in Marshalsea', won the CWA Historical Dagger Award in 2014 and was shortlisted for Theakston's Crime Novel of the Year, it was a Richand and Judy, and Waterstone's Book Club pick. All in all, a huge debut.Now, she's returning to her first love, with a brand new fantasy trilogy. 'The Raven Scholar', tells the story of Bersun the Brusque, Emperor of Orrun, who is bringing his reign to an end after 24 years on the throne. It looks at the 7 contenders to replace him... who soon become 6. It's up to Neema Kraa to investigate the killer before the Empire falls.We discuss the tricks and tropes of fantasy, and how much you can possibly research the world you're creating. Also, you an hear why fantasy is all about asking strange questions, how much she knows about the future of the series, and how much planning can go into a sprawling, epic saga.You can get a copy of the book at uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutineSupport the show - patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutine@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Celebrate the release of “The Alphabet of Happiness” with Klaudia Mitura's 26-day challenge—one happiness-boosting habit for every letter from A to Z.  We have officially reached the halfway mark! Today's episode is a special interlude, as Klaudia is sharing something a little bit different with you. Recently she had the pleasure of joining Paula Felps on her Live Happy Now podcast where they dove deeper into the power of happiness habits, personal stories, and the science behind why these small changes can make a big difference. Enjoy! Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Celebrate the release of “The Alphabet of Happiness” with Klaudia Mitura's 26-day challenge—one happiness-boosting habit for every letter from A to Z! In today's episode, Klaudia explores M for Meaning. She explains that a sense of meaning is key to happiness, resilience, and even better health, but finding purpose isn't always a grand, one-time discovery—it's something we create through everyday actions and stories. Klaudia encourages listeners to reflect on how their unique strengths and small acts of kindness can positively impact others. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

A New Way to Lead: Danny Wareham on “Constellations” and Culture as the True Leader.In this episode of Get Out of Wrap, Martin Teasdale sits down with Danny Wareham, author of Constellations and founder of Firgun, to explore a revolutionary new way of looking at leadership.After nearly two decades in corporate life, Danny took redundancy and embarked on a master's-level journey into organisational psychology — a path that led to Constellations, a book redefining what leadership really means.Danny shares the thinking behind his four-year research project: that leadership isn't about a single figurehead, but about creating environments and cultures that lead themselves. From the psychology of trust and team dynamics to the lessons organisations can learn from the military and small businesses, this conversation challenges every assumption about hierarchy and control.Whether you're a contact centre leader, manager, or just passionate about building better teams, this is an episode that will change how you think about leadership forever.

Rachel and Simon speak to the novelist Sarah Perry. Sarah is the internationally bestselling author of four novels - "After Me Comes the Flood" (2014), "The Essex Serpent" (2016), "Melmoth" (2018) and "Enlightenment" (2024) - as well as two works of non-fiction, "Essex Girls" (2020) and "Death of an Ordinary Man" (2025). Waterstone's and the British Book Awards both named "The Essex Serpent" Book of the Year and in 2022 Apple TV+ adapted the novel into a mini-series starring Claire Danes and Tom Hiddleston. Sarah's work has been nominated for major literary prizes including the Women's Prize for Fiction, the Dylan Thomas Prize, the Folio Prize and the Costa Novel Award. We spoke to Sarah about growing up in a Strict Baptist household, her breakout success with "The Essex Serpent", and her latest novel, "Enlightenment".We've made another update for those ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠who support the podcast on the crowdfunding site Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We've added 40 pages of new material to the package of successful article pitches that goes to anyone who supports the show with $5 per month or more, including new pitches to the New York Times, the Washington Post and the BBC. The whole compendium now runs to a whopping 160 pages. For Patreons who contribute $10/month we're now also releasing bonus mini-episodes. Thanks to our sponsor, Scrivener, the first ten new signs-ups at $10/month will receive a lifelong license to Scrivener worth £55/$59.99 (seven are left). This specialist word-processing software helps you organise long writing projects such as novels, academic papers and even scripts. Other Patreon rewards include signed copies of the podcast book and the opportunity to take part in a monthly call with Simon and Rachel.A new edition of “Always Take Notes: Advice From Some Of The World's Greatest Writers” - a book drawing on our podcast interviews - is available now. The updated version now includes insights from over 100 past guests on the podcast, with new contributions from Harlan Coben, Victoria Hislop, Lee Child, Megan Nolan, Jhumpa Lahiri, Philippa Gregory, Jo Nesbø, Paul Theroux, Hisham Matar and Bettany Hughes. You can order it via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Waterstones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.You can find us online at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alwaystakenotes.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, on Twitter @takenotesalways and on Instagram @alwaystakenotes. Always Take Notes is presented by Simon Akam and Rachel Lloyd, and produced by Artemis Irvine. Our music is by Jessica Dannheisser and our logo was designed by James Edgar.

Welcome back to “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day challenge,” where Klaudia Mitura shares daily, science-backed happiness tips in celebration of her new book.In today's episode, Klaudia explores L for Luck. Klaudia reveals how believing you're lucky actually shapes your behaviour and increases positive opportunities in life, as shown by research. She explains that lucky people don't self-reject—they share their ideas and take chances, while those who see themselves as unlucky often hold themselves back. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Welcome back to “The Alphabet of Happiness – 26-day challenge,” celebrating Klaudia Mitura's new book and counting down to the big launch party! Today's letter is K for Kindness. Klaudia explains how small acts of kindness can ripple out, boosting happiness for others—even people you don't know. She also highlights the importance of being kind to yourself, not just others, to avoid burnout. Today's tip: try Metta meditation to nurture self-kindness and extend goodwill to those around you. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

This episode of Never Mind The Bar Charts features podcast favourite Phil Cowley talking about his new book, The Smallest Room in the House. It is crammed full of fun yet useful insights from political science. Listen to us talk about Simon Cowell, fish and chip shops, riots, the rise of AI, potholes and more. Show notes All the fish and chip shops in the UK. Distribution of passport ownership. Causes and Consequences of Electoral Violence 1832-1914. Philip Cowley on Bluesky. Read a free chapter from the book. Get The Smallest Room in the House: 50 political oddities to read in more than one sitting from Waterstones, Amazon (including e-book version) and Bookshop.org (affiliate links). Theme tune by Hugo Lee. New to listening to podcasts? Here are some tips on how to listen to podcasts. Check out some of this show's most popular previous episodes.

Celebrate the release of “The Alphabet of Happiness” with Klaudia Mitura's 26-day challenge—one happiness-boosting habit for every letter from A to Z! In today's episode, Klaudia explores letter is J for Jokes—celebrating the healing power of laughter. Klaudia explores why laughter is instinctive and how it boosts happiness, reduces stress, and strengthens social bonds. Today's challenge: give yourself permission to laugh—try ten minutes of genuine laughter to enjoy the mental, physical, and social benefits. Laughter really is the best medicine!Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

This week we're using the wrong words, binging House of Madri, and tasting Jonny's Oktoberfest bier.GET TICKETS TO LOVE & BEER: tinyurl.com/love-and-beer-2025WATCH THIS WEEK'S VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80x-4v_DwtEWATCH THE HOUSE OF MADRI: https://youtube.com/shorts/YiwF8NGa5vI?si=0mBcMvp5d_szQISOSupport the showBrought to you by the team behind the Craft Beer Channel, The Bubble is a weekly podcast that gives you a way to wind down with your first beer of the weekend. Dig into craft beer, film and music culture as well as hearing what's going on in the wild world of Beer Tubing.BUY JONNY'S NEW BOOK! SIGNED COPIES: https://www.davids-bookshops.co.uk/products/the-meaning-of-beer-by-jonny-garrett-signed-pre-orderAMAZON: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meaning-Beer-Jonny-Garrett/dp/1838959947/WATERSTONES: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-meaning-of-beer/jonny-garrett/9781838959944SUPPORT US! Pledge on Patreon and get some cool merch & videos: https://www.patreon.com/craftbeerchannel Check out our awesome sponsor The Malt Miller: https://www.themaltmiller.co.uk/ Twitter – @beerchannelFacebook – http://www.facebook.com/thecraftbeerchannelInstagram – @craftbeerchannel

It's Day 9 of the 26-day boost for Klaudia Mitura's new book, “The Alphabet of Happiness”! Today's letter is I for Innovation. Klaudia, with insights from Dr. Girija Kaimal, explains that creativity is innate and essential for happiness and growth. Engaging in creative activities—even just 15–20 minutes—can spark positive emotions, reduce stress, and build confidence. Today's action: schedule an “artist's date” to experience something creative, like a workshop or exhibition, and awaken your own innovative spirit.Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

It's Day 8 of the 26-day boost for Klaudia Mitura's new book, “The Alphabet of Happiness”! Today's letter is H for Habits. Klaudia highlights research showing that 40% of our happiness comes from the habits we practice every day—meaning we have real power to shape our wellbeing. She encourages listeners to pick one happiness-boosting habit and make the first step as easy as possible, like keeping water at your desk or placing your running shoes by the door. Small, simple actions pave the way for lasting positive change.Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

It's Day 7 of the 26-day boost for Klaudia Mitura's new book, “The Alphabet of Happiness”! Today's letter is G for Gratitude. Klaudia shares her personal struggle with adopting gratitude and explains how our brains are wired for negativity—but gratitude can rewire them for happiness. Practicing gratitude daily boosts optimism, calm, sleep, and relationships, making it a true happiness superpower. Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Join Klaudia Mitura, work psychologist and Chief Happiness Officer, as she celebrates the launch of her new book, “The Alphabet of Happiness,” with a 26-day happiness challenge—one letter at a time! In today's episode, day 6 of the boost - Klaudia explores F for Freedom—how to feel empowered even in an unpredictable world. She explains that your sense of agency, or belief in your ability to shape your life, is key to happiness and resilience. The practical tip: focus on what you can control, starting with a positive morning routine. Simple habits like exercise, gratitude, or breakfast with loved ones can boost your mood and help you face daily challenges with confidence.Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Do you need to write an internal communication strategy? If you're not sure where to start, or the format it needs to be in, you're in the right place. In this podcast episode you'll discover one thing to know, one thing to do and one thing to think about, when it comes to creating an IC strategy.  Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast See the All Things IC Inner Circle page of Rachel's website to find out more about the next cohort: https://www.allthingsic.com/1-2-1/the-all-things-ic-inner-circle/ Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop.  Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC. 

This is episode five of The Alphabet of Happiness 26-Day Boost, celebrating Klaudia Mitura's new book: The Alphabet of Happiness. Each day, Klaudia brings you a simple, uplifting tip you can use in under five minutes. Today's focus is E for Empathy. Klaudia explores why understanding and feeling with others is essential for happiness and building strong relationships. Learn how empathy helps you connect, collaborate, and make others feel truly seen and heard—and why it's linked to lower loneliness and greater joy.Get involved: ⭐ Get a quick summary of each happiness principle—follow along as we reveal a new letter every day!

Women's role as slaveowners is often overlooked – but, just like men, they both profited from and maintained the institution of slavery. Speaking to Ellie Cawthorne, historian Miranda Kaufmann profiles several 'Caribbean heiresses' who married into the British aristocracy and brought huge wealth generated from slavery into the country.  (Ad) Miranda Kaufmann is the author of Heiresses: Marriage, Inheritance and Caribbean Slavery (Oneworld, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2F9780861548019. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Good Sunday to you,With bitcoin breaking out to record highs overnight, what a good morning it is indeed.Below is this week's commentary in case you missed it. Gold keeps on going up. So does silver. So do miners. When does the party end?On the subject of which here are the results of my twitter poll, which make for interesting reading. General consensus is, as I argued, that gold is in innings 6 of 9.But silver is only in innings one, apparently, even if breathing down the neck of $50. Gotta to love those silver bulls!Mining too is early. We shall see.For you consideration today, I thought I would share this podcast I recorded with Aussie Josh Szeps earlier in the week, talking about everything, really.Enjoy!If you live in a Third World country, such as the UK, I urge you to own gold or silver. The bullion dealer I recommend is The Pure Gold Company. Pricing is competitive, quality of service is high. They deliver to the UK, the US, Canada and Europe or you can store your gold with them. More here.Until next time,DominicPS Secret History of Gold is going great guns. If you haven't got your copy, here are links to get it on Amazon and Waterstones and all good bookshops. I hear the audiobook, read by me, is excellent.Amazon is currently offering 20% off.It might be, as Merryn Somerset webb says, “the best timed book" ever. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theflyingfrisby.com/subscribe

This week Brad muses on how CBC will be immortalised and Jonny offers a tank pour to someone else for a change.WATCH THIS WEEK'S VIDEO: https://youtu.be/H1HRhgPf5lwGET TICKETS TO LOVE & BEER: tinyurl.com/love-and-beer-2025Support the showBrought to you by the team behind the Craft Beer Channel, The Bubble is a weekly podcast that gives you a way to wind down with your first beer of the weekend. Dig into craft beer, film and music culture as well as hearing what's going on in the wild world of Beer Tubing.BUY JONNY'S NEW BOOK! SIGNED COPIES: https://www.davids-bookshops.co.uk/products/the-meaning-of-beer-by-jonny-garrett-signed-pre-orderAMAZON: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meaning-Beer-Jonny-Garrett/dp/1838959947/WATERSTONES: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-meaning-of-beer/jonny-garrett/9781838959944SUPPORT US! Pledge on Patreon and get some cool merch & videos: https://www.patreon.com/craftbeerchannel Check out our awesome sponsor The Malt Miller: https://www.themaltmiller.co.uk/ Twitter – @beerchannelFacebook – http://www.facebook.com/thecraftbeerchannelInstagram – @craftbeerchannel

There were many ways queer people in the Georgian era fought against social and legal restrictions to express their desire and convey their love for one another, from molly houses and marriages to adult adoption,. Speaking to Isabel King, Anthony Delaney discusses his new book Queer Georgians. (Ad) Anthony Delaney is the author of Queer Georgians: A Hidden History of Lovers, Lawbreakers and Homemakers (Transworld Publishers, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fqueer-georgians%2Fanthony-delaney%2F9781529927689. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

***Trigger warning: This episode makes reference to suicide. Please be mindful of this before hitting the play button*** Welcome to Motherkind, proudly sponsored by Wild Nutrition Women's Supplements. This week's guest is Dr Alex George, a doctor, mental fitness expert, and formerly the UK's first Youth Mental Health Ambassador. I was so keen to speak with Alex about what he's learned in this role, especially around children's mental health and how closely it connects to our own as parents. In this honest and moving conversation, Alex opens up about his own childhood, the struggles he faced, and what he wishes he'd known back then. He shares his hopes for what schools could do differently, and how the tragic loss of his brother has shaped both his life and his mission to support young people today. This episode is full of wisdom, vulnerability and plenty of practical ideas – not just for supporting our children, but for looking after ourselves too. ✨ Buy Dr Alex's new book – Happy Habits Available now at Waterstones or Amazon Happy Habits is an empowering, practical toolkit for children aged 9+. Designed to nurture happiness, build resilience and support everyday wellbeing, it introduces small, achievable daily practices to help young readers thrive emotionally and physically. Get your free 3 days of 5-minute Motherkind here  - 21 days to reset your energy, mood and mindset. Click Here to order your copy of 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' Motherkind is sponsored by Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. Sign up to GoHenry, the money app and debit card that grows your kids' money smarts from age 6 -18. Sign up today at gohenry.com/motherkind and you'll get a free £5 pocket money to help your kids grow their money smart. Start planning your next family getaway with The Family Suite. Explore the full collection now at thefamilysuite.co.uk and discover luxury hotels around the world that truly welcome families, without compromise. For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ MotherkindContinue the Conversation: Join our community over on Instagram for inspiration, tips, and sometimes a bit of humour to get us through our day - @zoeblaskey Join our mailing list to receive news, updates and new episode releases Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rachel and Simon speak with the screenwriter and novelist James Alistair Henry. James first started writing while working as a bookseller. He joined the writing team for Channel 4's "Smack the Pony" and went on to write the BAFTA-award winning "Green Wing", ITV comedy "Delivery Man" and sitcom "Campus" as well as episodes for the children's television shows "Bob The Builder" and "Hey Duggee". His Radio 4 sketch show, "Wosson Cornwall", was selected as BBC Radio Comedy of the Week and his newest sitcom, "Piglets", has been commissioned for a second series. James's recent debut novel, "Pagans", set in an alternate 21st-century Britain where Christianity, the Norman Conquest and the Industrial Revolution never happened, has been optioned for TV by production company Media Res. We spoke to James about comedy writing, his children's TV work, and his new novel. We've made another update for those ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠who support the podcast on the crowdfunding site Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We've added 40 pages of new material to the package of successful article pitches that goes to anyone who supports the show with $5 per month or more, including new pitches to the New York Times, the Washington Post and the BBC. The whole compendium now runs to a whopping 160 pages. For Patreons who contribute $10/month we're now also releasing bonus mini-episodes. Thanks to our sponsor, Scrivener, the first ten new signs-ups at $10/month will receive a lifelong license to Scrivener worth £55/$59.99 (seven are left). This specialist word-processing software helps you organise long writing projects such as novels, academic papers and even scripts. Other Patreon rewards include signed copies of the podcast book and the opportunity to take part in a monthly call with Simon and Rachel.A new edition of “Always Take Notes: Advice From Some Of The World's Greatest Writers” - a book drawing on our podcast interviews - is available now. The updated version now includes insights from over 100 past guests on the podcast, with new contributions from Harlan Coben, Victoria Hislop, Lee Child, Megan Nolan, Jhumpa Lahiri, Philippa Gregory, Jo Nesbø, Paul Theroux, Hisham Matar and Bettany Hughes. You can order it via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Waterstones⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.You can find us online at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alwaystakenotes.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, on Twitter @takenotesalways and on Instagram @alwaystakenotes. Always Take Notes is presented by Simon Akam and Rachel Lloyd, and produced by Artemis Irvine. Our music is by Jessica Dannheisser and our logo was designed by James Edgar.

The German Peasants' War of 1524-5 was the largest popular uprising in western Europe before the French Revolution. Thousands flocked to its cause as it swept across vast quantities of German-speaking land with speed, determination and fire. But what began with calls for freedom, justice and reform ended in brutal suppression. Lyndal Roper explores the revolution's explosive causes, course and consequences in her Cundill Prize-nominated book Summer of Fire and Blood – Emily Briffett spoke to her to find out more. To find out more about the Cundill History Prize, go to www.cundillprize.com. (Ad) Lyndal Roper is the author of Summer of Fire and Blood: The German Peasants' War (John Murray Press, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fsummer-of-fire-and-blood%2Flyndal-roper%2F9781399818025. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode examines peers and why they matter for internal communication. You'll discover one thing to know, one thing to do and one thing to think about. Rachel discusses why having a strong peer network matters for IC professionals.  She also analyses opportunities for peers inside organisations and why they are beneficial.  Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast See the All Things IC Inner Circle page of her website to find out more about the next cohort: https://www.allthingsic.com/1-2-1/the-all-things-ic-inner-circle/ Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop.  Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC. 

For three quarters of a century, the Korean peninsula has been divided between two very different regimes that are bitterly opposed to each other. But did it have to be this way? In his book, A Fractured Liberation, which has been shortlisted for the Cundill History Prize, Professor Kornel Chang revisits the US occupation of the south of Korea between 1945-1948 to explore whether opportunities were missed for a better future. For today's episode, he shared his findings with Rob Attar. (Ad) Kornel Chang is the author of A Fractured Liberation: Korea under US Occupation (Harvard University Press, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fa-fractured-liberation%2Fkornel-chang%2F9780674258433. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From cleaners to codebreakers, women's contributions to the history of British intelligence have often gone unrecognised and forgotten. But in actuality, female operatives penetrated enemy networks, executed astonishing operations, and organised a labyrinth of classified documents. Speaking to Rachel Dinning, Claire Hubbard-Hall delves into the untold stories of women in British intelligence. (Ad) Claire Hubbard-Hall is the author of Her Secret Service: The Forgotten Women of British Intelligence (Orion, 2024). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fher-secret-service%2Fclaire-hubbard-hall%2F9781399603430. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The life of El Cid, the famed 11th-century Castilian warrior otherwise known as Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, is steeped in legend. Historian Nora Berend joins Danny Bird to examine his real-life exploits during the centuries-long series of campaigns by Christian kingdoms to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule, known as the Reconquista. She unpacks his complex loyalties to both Christian and Muslim rulers, and explores how his story has been continually reshaped to serve politics, culture and Spanish national identity. (Ad) Nora Berend is the author of El Cid: The Life and Afterlife of a Medieval Mercenary (Sceptre, 2024). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fel-cid%2Fnora-berend%2F9781399709620. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The story of the Vikings who travelled to eastern Europe is just as thrilling as the story of those who headed west. It's also just as important – still being relevant today through deep rooted connections to the ongoing war in Ukraine. But what are those long-lasting links, exactly? Historian and author Martyn Whittock examines this complicated history in conversation with James Osborne. (Ad) Martyn Whittock is the author of Vikings in the East: From Vladimir the Great to Vladimir Putin – The Origins of a Contested Legacy in Russia and Ukraine (Biteback, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fvikings-in-the-east%2Fmartyn-whittock%2F9781785909054. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices