Join us for a story of grit, friendship, and an unbelievable challenge about to unfold on the Atlantic Ocean - starting 24th January 2026.
Only around 2,000 people have ever rowed across the Atlantic. Soon, two more names will join that list: Johnny Towers and Shaun Phelps — lifelong friends whose bond was forged in the Royal Marines and strengthened through years of hardship, humour, and hard graft.
Johnny, a roofer by trade and a loyal customer at our Blackburn branch, is no stranger to tough weather and long days. Shaun, a former prison officer and now carpet fitter, is the man who set this whole expedition in motion.
Together, they're taking on 3,200 miles of open ocean in Danielle — a 24-foot boat already battle-tested by previous Atlantic crossings. Their mission isn’t just survival — it’s purpose. They’re raising money and awareness for two charities close to their hearts: Care After Combat and The Samaritans, supporting mental health and veterans in crisis. We are delighted to support and raise awareness of their journey.
So settle in for an inspiring and often hilarious conversation with two ordinary blokes taking on an extraordinary adventure.
Support their fundraising effort:
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/changing-tides-row
Givestar: https://givestar.io/gs/changing-tides
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@changing_tides_row
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559805009592
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/changing_tides_row/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/changing-tides-row/
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Roofing products - https://www.howarth-timber.co.uk/building-materials-drainage/roofing/
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Watch the Episodes On Youtube: - https://youtu.be/XcK4yGIXjQg
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ov5c0y78nezowFz07C5AU?si=4c70c4030522440b&nd=1&dlsi=bf8c82e6addc44f8
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-1840-podcast/id1789793386
Amazon: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/2bdccd00-1cc9-4173-be70-39544f923c80/the-1840-podcast
