Shows
Dear Rach & SophJuly 2025 new releasesIt’s a double episode today! That’s because we're late posting the July new releases. As it happens, Rachael recorded that one on her own, and as Sophie made the Emma Clancey episode (posted earlier) on her own, it has lined up nicely that we post both episodes today. So instead of one episode with us together, you have one from Soph and one from Rach. Lots of great new reading in this episode! Details of the books mentioned in this episode appear below.Title: What Did I Miss?Author...2025-07-2014 min
Dear Rach & SophDear Rach & Soph season 2, episode 14 - Award winners and Christmas grinnersThis week Rach and Soph discuss the Booker Prize-winning novel Orbital by Samantha Harvey and also delve into whether or not we usually read award-winning books and why/why not. We’d love to know if you read them or do not, and why, so please let us know in the comments!Also for the comments: an answer to a question Sophie poses near the start … about the title of her 2025 novel. It was to be called one thing - a title she gave it at inception - but now it’s not. There are some option...2024-12-071h 00
Books and BingosMini #25 with RachaelSHOW NOTES:
Books and Bingos is hosted by @RachaelFryman and @thenextgenlibrarian
Follow and Contact Us: tiny.cc/booksandbingos
Our Current Bingo Board!
Support the show by using our affiliate codes!
LibroFM
Bookshop
Books Mentioned in the Episode:
Nimona by N.D. Stevenson2024-09-1802 min
Russell Reads with the Rach(a)elsLibrary Crimes and Other Rabbit Holes [Guest Amanda Paez]Amanda Paez, assistant to the city manager, and wearer of many hats, talks about her library crimes.*CORRECTION: A note from Rachael - Our Classics book club meets on Monday, September 30 at 5:30 PM to discuss “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie. Call 434-799-5195 to register! We hope you join us.Books we discuss include:“I Want a Pet - A School Zone Start To Read Book”“And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie*“Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone” by Benjamin Stevenson“Throne of Glass” series by Sarah J. Ma...2024-09-1526 minRussell Reads with the Rach(a)elsSeagulls, Shipwrecks, and Shanties [August Reading Challenge]Russell, Rachel, and Rachael discuss our August challenge, books set by the beach or sea, and regrettably did not prepare any sea shanties.Books we discuss include:“A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks” by David Gibbins“The Whydah: A Pirate Ship Feared, Wrecked, and Found” by Martin W. Sandler“Pirate Latitudes” by Michael Crichton“The Wreck of the Medusa” by Jonathan Miles“The Outlaw Ocean: Journeys Across the Last Untamed Frontier” by Ian Urbina“Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter” by Lizzie Pook“The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway“The Pearl” by John Steinbeck“Treasure Island”...2024-08-0125 minRussell Reads with the Rach(a)elsMuppets, Chasing Rabbits, and Other Adventures [June Reading Challenge]Russell and the Rach(a)els discuss the June reading challenge and what it means to go on an adventure.Books we discussed include:“The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien“The Chronicles of Narnia” series by C.S. Lewis“Northwind” by Gary Paulsen“This Tender Land” by William Kent Krueger“The Call of the Wild” by Jack London“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carrol“Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery“James” by Percival Everett“Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson“The Madstone” by Elizabeth Crook“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams“The Vaster Wil...2024-06-0120 min
Read by ExampleOrganizational Culture and Intelligent Failure: A Conversation with Isobel StevensonRead by Example is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this space, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.On Monday, December 19, Debra Crouch and I spoke with Isobel Stevenson.Isobel is the author of The Coaching Letter, a newsletter that is about “organizational culture and intelligent failure”. She is also the author of multiple books, including Making Coaching Matter: Leading Continuous Improvement in Schools, with Sarah Woulfin and Kerry Lord (Teachers College Press, 2023).In our conversation we explored a number of questions around continuous school impr...2023-12-2333 min
The Rise & Conquer PodcastYour Ultimate Biz & Skincare Bible with Rachael, Founder of TBH Skincare.From picking and packing 12 months ago to now being stocked in priceline and coles ♥️ Today on the podcast we sit down with Rachel the founder of TBH Skincare. We chat about all things skincare - where to start with our routines, what hyaluronic acid actually is & her top tips for acne prone skin. AND of course chat about business, TBH’s unique journey and how she has handled its insane growth. Think of this ep as the ultimate guide to skincare and biz 💻 You can find TBH Skincare here. Y...2023-11-0647 min
American PotentialMontana’s Journey for Unrestricted Free Speech on College CampusesIn this episode of 'American Potential', host Jeff Crank delves into the challenges and controversies surrounding free speech on college campuses. With guest Rachael Stevenson, a student advocate from Montana State University, they discuss the recent legislative battles in Montana, the dangers of "cancel culture", and the paramount importance of fostering a culture of open dialogue in educational institutions. Listen in to understand why the entirety of America should be a 'free speech zone' and why it's crucial to protect this right, especially in our colleges. #americanpotential Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A...2023-10-1626 min
American PotentialMontana’s Journey for Unrestricted Free Speech on College CampusesIn this episode of 'American Potential', host Jeff Crank delves into the challenges and controversies surrounding free speech on college campuses. With guest Rachael Stevenson, a student advocate from Montana State University, they discuss the recent legislative battles in Montana, the dangers of "cancel culture", and the paramount importance of fostering a culture of open dialogue in educational institutions. Listen in to understand why the entirety of America should be a 'free speech zone' and why it's crucial to protect this right, especially in our colleges. #americanpotential
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
F...2023-10-1626 minAmerican PotentialMontana’s Journey for Unrestricted Free Speech on College CampusesIn this episode of 'American Potential', host Jeff Crank delves into the challenges and controversies surrounding free speech on college campuses. With guest Rachael Stevenson, a student advocate from Montana State University, they discuss the recent legislative battles in Montana, the dangers of "cancel culture", and the paramount importance of fostering a culture of open dialogue in educational institutions. Listen in to understand why the entirety of America should be a 'free speech zone' and why it's crucial to protect this right, especially in our colleges. #americanpotential
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
F...2023-10-1626 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 27 Mark "Mavis" ReillyIn this episode Mark “Mavis” Reilly. Mark is a former professional footballer; he shares his story and experiences taking on some of the most gruelling physical challenges to raise awareness for Rett Syndrome and his latest challenge next year will be his most challenging so far. Mark’s book, “The Lives of Reilly,” delves deeper into his inspiring journey. All profits from the book will be donated to the charity Reverse Rett. Buy Mark’s book here: https://namelesstownbooks.com/product/the-lives-of-reilly/ The best way to support the podcast is by subscribing so that you get u...2023-07-1349 min
Putting 2&2 TogetherEpisode 18 - Hot Off the Press: A Day in the LifeSend us a textWhile David and Tommy are away, Max gets more than he bargained for when he fills in at the coffee shop. Someone should have told him that the back-to-school breakfast rush gets pretty busy. Walter really needs to hire more help. Will he? Based on the play Two and Two Together by Peter Cosmas Sofronas. Written, Directed, and Produced by Peter Cosmas Sofronas. Starring (in order of appearance) Rachael Rabinovitz as Hayley Gettelman, Samuel Berbel as Max, Beth Stevenson as the Irate Customer, Chris Rose as Anthony Wallace, Alexander Pirnie as...2023-04-1815 min
What You Should ReadYou Should Read: The Ones We're Meant to Find (a Book Club Episode with Bekki Fahrer!)Send us a textShould-heads, we are back with our first full-length episode in what feels like forever! We had a great time discussing the book and hopefully you've read it already. If not, be aware that we have some major spoilers. Look for the books mentioned in this episode on Libro.fm by using our affiliate link. When you buy using this link, you are supporting the podcast! AND if you use our code WYSR at checkout you can get your first two books for the price of one. Check out our recommendations here: ht...2022-08-021h 31
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 26 Ross McKinney and Duncan HughesThe whole Rett Syndrome community were enthralled as the Five in a Row team set off from the Canary Islands last December in the Talisker Whisky Challenge. Rowing the Atlantic is on the bucket list for most adventurers and five guys from Scotland did just that and supported Reverse Rett too. What a test of physical and mental endurance it is! The boys were rowing in honour of Eliza who has Rett Syndrome. Her dad, Ross McKinney was part of the team and it was a real privilege to talk to Ross and the boat's skipper, Duncan Hughes about their ep...2022-07-2540 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 25 Gareth Warne - Pink Elephant Challenge 3It's been a while but the Reverse Rett podcast is back! It was a pleasure to speak to the Pink Elephant man himself earlier this week as he approaches his latest crazy challenge for Reverse Rett. Sponsor Gareth at JUST GIVING here: https://tinyurl.com/223mbbtb When Gareth Warne lost his sister Reverse Rett didn't exist. In fact, back in 2005 there didn't seem to be any Rett Syndrome research on the horizon. Two years later the reversal experiments happened and the future for people with Rett Syndrome looked suddenly brighter. Sadly...2022-06-2232 min
Lights, Camera, Gold51. Bend it Like Beckham (with Shireen Ahmed)In the latest episode of "Lights, Camera, Gold", Rachael finally has her first female guest. This week, it is none other than CBC senior columnist, podcaster, and "Bend it Like Beckham" scholar, Shireen Ahmed. This week, in honour of the film's recent 20th anniversary, and the women's FA Cup Final on May 15th (featuring a member of the Canadian women's national team), Rachael and Shireen discuss the movie's legacy two decades later and if things really have changed for racialized women in sport, on screen, and behind the camera.Co- Written and Directed by Gurinder Chada, "Bend...2022-05-2140 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 154 - Deaf Havana: 'Fools and Worthless Liars' | 10th Anniversary with James Veck-GilodiThe Past Ten Years. On November 7th 2011, Deaf Havana released their second full length and breakthrough studio album, Fools and Worthless Liars, that created a connection to a dedicated audience and helped shape the bands career, for the decade to follow. On this special episode, vocalist and songwriter, James Veck-Gilodi, returns to celebrate the albums tenth year anniversary in style by dissecting it's legacy, secrets and larger than life storytelling. In this podcast, we discuss the pressure of stepping away from their original post-hardcore blueprint, writing these songs in his head, sarcastic lyrics, that famous line on Lower Than...2021-11-051h 13
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 153 - William Gould #2 (Creeper / Salem)Draculads. The prince of spooky, gothic, diy punk, William Gould, is our guest on Episode 153 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Creeper vocalist returns to give us an insight into his new project Salem, unexpected adventures along with some tricks and treats for the Halloween season. In this conversation, the cult leader opens up on getting to showcase another side of his creativity, writing songs in concepts vs everyday storytelling, how Salem started accidentally, Creeper's emotional return at Download Pilot, why he made Morgan cry, dealing with sweaty cloths, showing Gary Newman his cat, being chased in the woods, his love...2021-10-291h 26
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 152 - Adam Lazzara (Taking Back Sunday)Louder Now. Professional microphone swinger, emo forefather and lyrical genies, Adam Lazzara, is our guest on Episode 152 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Taking Back Sunday vocalist returns for a special discussion on the bands famous use of the number and dissects another round inspirational stories from a genre defying career. In this conversation, Adam opens up on the early days of his music adventure, obsessing over bands before starting Taking Back Sunday in New York, their documented evolution, new music plans, confusing the internet with a cover of 'My Name Is Jonas' by Weezer, his Fuckin Whatever project with John...2021-10-221h 06
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 151 - Sam McTrusty (Twin Atlantic)Transparency. Scottish accent enthusiast, flamboyant dancer and humble rockstar, Sam McTrusty, is our guest on Episode 151 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Twin Atlantic songwriter opens up on a new era of his life, the band and never fitting in. In this conversation, we discuss his artistic nature to go against the grain, how he accidentally created a new album while writing for somebody else, heavy metal screams vs underground dance vibes, the ugly realities of music business, celebrating the tenth year anniversary of their breakthrough album Free, why cult fan classics like Crash Land were never singles, their bizarre Warped...2021-10-151h 12
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 150 - Wade MacNeil (Alexisonfire / Gallows / Dooms Children)This Could Be Anywhere In The World. Modern punk icon, Alexisonfire guitarist and Gallows hellraiser, Wade MacNeil, is our guest on Episode 150 of Sappenin' Podcast! In this conversation, the Canadian saint opens up on a career of fighting against stereotypes, why punk isn't the only thing that represents him, his new solo and psychedelic 'Dooms Chidren' project, everything Alexisonfire (from their announcement for Slam Dunk Festival 2022, reunion vs future plans and the fifteenth anniversary of Crises), the time Gallows almost got abducted by a biker gang, his work composing for films, Dark Side Of The Ring, upstaging Tom Brady...2021-10-081h 02
The Virtually Inspiring PodcastEpisode 11 - Lynda's StoryEpisode 11 Lynda’s StoryIn this week’s episode, I talk to Lynda Stevenson, Podcast Manager. Her business is called LJS Creative Services.In 2019 Lynda set up LJS Creative Services. She works part-time as well as running her successful VA business.Interesting fact Lynda lives in New Zealand and runs another business with her husband hiring out VW Camper Vans! [1.52m]Ultimately, Lynda wants the freedom to move around the country with their VW camper van business which is what led her to discover virtual assistants.Lynda has a back...2021-10-0322 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 24 - Mathilde MastroianniThe Reverse Rett podcast is back and in this episode, I’m speaking with Mathilde Mastroianni, Assistant Psychologist at the CIPP Rett Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College London. Anyone whose child or adult with Rett has been a patient at CIPP Rett, CIPPRD or on a clinical trial at King’s over the last four years will know Tilly. During her time with the CIPP Rett team, she’s been clinical trials co-ordinator, clinical research assistant and assistant psychologist. To families, that means Tilly has been the person they rea...2021-10-0149 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 149 - Tyler Bates (Musician / Producer / Film Composer)Soundtracks. Music producer, blockbuster film composer and renowned touring guitarist, Tyler Bates, is our guest on Episode 149 of Sappenin' Podcast! His work credits include your favourite bands, movie franchises, comic books characters and video games, so when a unique opportunity to explore yet another side of the industrty, and his phenomenal career came up, we had to take it. Tyler's CV includes, scoring huge box office attractions like: Guardians Of The Galaxy, John Wick, Deadpool, 300, Halloween, Fast and Furious & Dawn Of The Dead. Producing albums for Bush and Alice In Chains. Touring the globe as the guitarist for Marilyn Man...2021-10-011h 14
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 148 - Hot Milk #2 (Hannah Mee & Jim Shaw)Split Personality. Chaotic, genre defying, power duo, Hot Milk, are our guests on Episode 148 of Sappenin' Podcast! Hannah Mee & Jim Shaw return for another round of uncontrollable, naughty but nice, madness with us, recorded backstage at their recent UK headline tour. In this conversation, we discuss the bands growth and rise to fame since their first appearance on the podcast, new ep "I Just Wanna Know What Happens When I'm Dead", their proud stance on oversharing, silly jokes, growing as people vs building their own safe space community, how members of Foo Fighters made sure they had vegetables, peeing...2021-09-2453 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 147 - Kaya Tarsus (Blood Youth)Closure. Former Blood Youth vocalist, Kaya Tarsus, is our guest on Episode 147 of Sappenin' Podcast! At Slam Dunk Festival 2021, Kaya preformed for the very last time with the UK hardcore-metal titans, before officially parting ways with the band due to a series of very personal metal health issues. For this episode, we were lucky enough to have been invited to speak with him backstage, literal moments, after stepping off stage for the final time. In this conversation, Kaya expresses his raw, honest and natural reaction to walking away from music (for the time being), we discuss everything from the though...2021-09-171h 09
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 146 - Slam Dunk Festival 2021 (Waterparks, We Are The In Crowd, State Champs, Mayday Parade, Doll Skin, Static Dress, As It Is, Noahfinnce, For You The Moon)Slam Dunk Da Funk! September 4th-5th 2021 witnessed the return of Slam Dunk Festival, UK to open air fields in Leeds & Hatfield. In an attempt to salvage the last of the summer sunshine, live music and those vital festival vibes, Sappenin' Podcast was invited to cover both dates, to record a bunch of fun, new and emotionally driven conversation. In this episode, we discuss a collection of different experiences with artists from every aspect of the line up, from the return of old podcast friends, to highlighting breakthrough favourites and finally getting time with some name's you're bombarded us...2021-09-102h 11
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 145 - Matthew Davies-Kreye (Funeral For A Friend)Escape Artists Never Die. Funeral For A Friend vocalist Matthew Davies-Kreye is our guest on Episode 145 of Sappenin' Podcast! As the band return for two special appearances at Slam Dunk Festival, UK this weekend, the inspirational lyricist finally answers all YOUR requests and breaks his podcast, interview and public speaking retirement, for a wild conversation with us. In this episode, we discuss Matt's life now living in Germany, working for Avocado booking, FFAF's original break up in 2016, reuniting for a series of benefit shows in honour of our friend Stu Brothers, what the future might hold going forward, not s...2021-09-031h 32
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 144 - Matt Rubano (Angels & Airwaves / Ex-Taking Back Sunday)Euphoria. Bass extraordinaire, credited actor and stand-up comedian, Matt Rubano, is our guest on Episode 144 of Sappenin' Podcast! Angels & Airwaves newest recruit is with us for a special insight into his involvement with countless of the alternative emo scenes biggest inspirations. In this conversation, we discuss how Matt perfected his craft as a technically gifted bassist, his work with The All American Rejects, Glassjaw, Patrick Stump (Fall Out Boy), Lauryn Hill (Fugees), some really unexpected names and obviously, his seven years as vital member of, Taking Back Sunday, during their most commercially successful period, joining Angels & Airwaves, their recent...2021-08-271h 59
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 143 - Dustin Kensrue (Thrice)Image Of The Invisible. Melody master, Thrice vocalist and spiritual human, Dustin Kensrue, is our guest on Episode 143 of Sappenin' Podcast! The voice of an alternative generation is back with us, for his own dedicated episode, as we dive into a lifetime of inspirational energy. In this conversation, we discuss the bands new album Horizons / East. how they spent their lockdown building a new studio base, individual DIY input, bringing back The Alliance: Thrice fan-club, how subscription services like that have inspired people like While She Sleeps to create a new movement in music, the art of lyrics, finding unique...2021-08-201h 04
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithBonus: Bloodstock Festival 2021 (Skindred, Napalm Death, Vexed, Therapy?, Vicky Hungerford)Doom Riffs. August 11th-15th 2021 saw the return of the UK's resident number one heavy metal festival, Bloodstock Open Air, to the fields of Catton Park. To celebrate it's twentieth anniversary, we sent our very own Morgan Richards to throw his horns up, experience another side to the alternative community and record a series of exclusive conversations for this special bonus episode of Sappenin' Podcast. In this episode, we're joined by a collection of guests including riff master Mikey Demus (Skindred), Barney Greenway (Napalm Death), Megan Targett & Jay Bacon (Vexed), Andy Cairns & Michael McKeegan (Therapy?) and Bloodstock head booker...2021-08-171h 33
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 142 - Adam Dutkiewicz (Killswitch Engage / Times Of Grace)The End Of Heartache. Heavy guitar icon, production royalty and game show winner, Adam Dutkirwicz, is our guest on Episode 142 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Killswitch Engage axeman is with us to dive into the mind behind the riffs, famous on stage antics and endless unbelievable life moments. In this conversation, we discuss Killswitch's fast approaching run of live shows, how the pandemic made him analyse a lot of things internally, the return of Times Of Grace after a decade away, his songwriting relationships with Jesse Leach and Howard Jones, creating a super fun atmosphere with the crowd, silly onstage...2021-08-131h 10
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 141 - Aaron Beam (Red Fang)Wires. Sludge metal bassist, vocalist and one time comedian, Aaron Beam, is our guest on Episode 141 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Red Fang leader opens up on the bands reputation for huge riffs, good times and hilarious music videos, with plenty of insane tangents in between. In this conversation, we dive into Aarons love for comedy, how he tried his hand at stand up, the adrenaline addiction of live music, new album Arrows, working in a animation studio (without originally been given an actual job), longevity vs not taking life too seriously, video concepts, cameos from actors Brian Posehn & Fred...2021-08-061h 19
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 23 Victoria ScottIf you were offered a chance to cure your child's disease, would you take it? Not a question we have to think very hard about at Reverse Rett, but this is the fundamental question that underpins Victoria Scott’s new novel, 'Patience' which is published today August 5th 2021 by Head of Zeus. I was grateful to have the opportunity to interview Victoria on this episode of the podcast to talk all about Patience; why she wrote this story, how she wrote it and about the characters we get to know throughout. We also talked about Vi...2021-08-0551 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 140 - Paul Harries (Photographer)Portraits. Music photography legend, resident Kerrang! Magazine cover star and helpful human, Paul Harries, is our guest on Episode 140 of Sappenin' Podcast! The man behind all of your favourite bands, most iconic shots, for the last three decades, is with us to show some candid exposure into the world of photography and his life behind the camera. In this conversation, we dissect Paul's mouthwatering all-star portfolio of larger than life charecters, his close personal relationship with Slipknot, releasing his 'Dysfunctional Family Portraits' book with them in 2015, remembering the late Joey Jordison, the secrets behind a Kerrang! photoshoot, how he...2021-07-301h 12
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 22 Cameron RossIn this episode of the podcast, I sit down with Cam Ross, older brother to Frankie, and son of Reverse Rett co-founder and Trustee, Rita Ross. We'd never had a conversation before recording this episode but had supported each other's work from afar, both in fundraising and through Reverse Rett Instagram. In this conversation, we talk about maintaining a strong relationship with our sisters, the pain of watching their condition get worse, and how our friendships and relationships, in general, have been affected by having sisters with Rett. We also chat about fundraising...2021-07-2440 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 21 Helen SimmondsIn today's podcast episode, I’m speaking to Helen Simmonds, Vice Chair of Reverse Rett and mother to Lauren who is 14 and her younger brother William. I met Helen all the way back in 2011 when Lauren had just been diagnosed. Helen was die-hard Reverse Rett from the get go, willing to do anything she could to help make change happen for our children. From the beginning of her family’s journey through the many ups and downs this debilitating condition has led them through, Helen’s dedication to making things better for Lauren, both in the her...2021-07-1652 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 20 David WainwrightThis week our guest is one of the busiest dads on the planet, my friend, David Wainwright. David lives in Loughborough with wife, Louise and their three children. His eldest, Georgia has Rett Syndrome and his other daughter, Phoebe has a rare brain condition called Pachygyria & LIS1, coincidently they are both under Professor Santosh at the CIPP Rett Centre and CIPPRD. Their son, Liam also keeps them on their toes. I see his Facebook posts and wonder how they remain so positive and happy in the face of the issues they deal with on a daily basis...2021-07-0248 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 19 Vincent JohnssonThis week’s podcast guest is Vincent Johnsson, Dad of Hannah and three boys, he’s also on about day 470 something of a 500 day (yes, 500 days...) 5K a day challenge which started even before the pandemic (can anyone even remember those days?) and has gone on all throughout! At first glance, Vincent is not at all the usual pain-hungry, self-punishing type male we typically witness undergoing these trials of physical and spiritual endurance under the guise of fundraising at Reverse Rett, but he is no less passionate, determined, angry, committed, hopeful and stoical about this never-ending daily get...2021-06-1850 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 18 Sara MeredithToday my guest on the Reverse Rett Podcast is Sara Meredith, mum of five, writer, storyteller, blogger, and all round hard-loving human. Sara’s third daughter Livvy, was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome after a familiar ongoing struggle to convince professionals that something was wrong. Sara spent the next several years, doing everything she could to give Livvy and her other three daughters, as equal a life as possible, with a positivity which shines through ‘Living Like Livvy,’ Livvy’s story, which was published in 2018 by Andre Govier with all proceeds to benefit Reverse Rett. Throughout this conve...2021-05-1452 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 17 Jocelyn LeBlancToday’s podcast conversation is with Dr Jocelyn LeBlanc. Jocelyn earned her PhD in neuroscience from Harvard Medical School where she worked in the laboratory of Dr. Michela Fagiolini. Jocelyn then made the unusual shift from working with Rett mice to working with children with Rett Syndrome at Boston Children’s Hospital. Now resident in the UK with her own family, Jocelyn works for the umbrella medical research organisation, the Association of Medical Research Charities where she oversees the collection, analysis and publication of sector data to demonstrate the scale of charity investment in medical research and highl...2021-04-3037 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 16 Paul FieldWhat can I say about this week’s podcast conversation? Paul is a Londoner-Kiwi, Master of Philosophy and History, a runner, a former Disability Access worker and most significantly, father to Eowyn and Jake. Paul and Eowyn’s mother met in the 70’s and had Eowyn when they were both just 20 years old. When they couldn’t find an answer to what was happening to their baby in New Zealand, they got on a plane, heading for Great Ormond Street to do whatever they could to help their little girl. If you’re in need of an emot...2021-04-1645 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 15 Neil Fowler with Andy StevensonThis week I'm talking to a true Rett Warrior, Neil Fowler. Neil's daughter, Ciara was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome and he discovered Reverse Rett in 2012 when he saw the 'Cure for Dylan' ride on Sky Sports and he's been pushing his body and mind to the limit ever since. We discuss his amazing family, his wife Gayle and his other two children, Michael and Sofia who have both followed in his fundraising footsteps, his challenges both past and present, his devastation at Ciara's diagnosis and touch on some of the mental health problems that parents...2021-04-0959 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 14 Minati DasIn this episode, I am speaking to the courageous and articulate Minati Das, mother of Tara age almost 10. I ‘met’ the devastated Minati seven years ago when Tara was first diagnosed with Rett Syndrome.I find Minati today, seasoned in Rett, a solid straight speaker and advocate and currently expecting a new baby after so many years of looking after Tara as an only child. In this moving episode, we talk about the relentless nature of Rett Syndrome; how the symptoms continue to rain. What it’s like learning and re-learning to live with new symptoms, adapting and mo...2021-04-0255 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 13 Helen Crompton revisitedRegular listeners to the podcast may well remember Episode 5, when I spoke to Dr Helen Crompton, mother of Shelley who had Rett Syndrome and died suddenly at the age of 11, all the way back in 1983. In today’s podcast episode, we’re revisiting the conversation I had with Helen and sharing some of our deeper and more intimate discussion about Shelley’s death and the resounding effect it had on Helen in so many ways for more than twenty years. In this episode, Helen and I talk about the immediate aftermath of Shelley's death and the ye...2021-03-2631 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 12 Young Carers Take Over with Peter DineThis week, on the Reverse Rett Podcast, 18-year-old A Level student, Peter Dine who is brother to not one, but two young women with Rett Syndrome, speaks to fellow Rett siblings from Washington State to the East Coast of Scotland in celebration of Young Carer’s Action Day 2021. From the moment they first realised their sibling was different, to the additional anxieties of Covid; from the rage of social inequality to being the one calling 999 and guiding the ambulance home, this is an enlightening episode for special needs parents everywhere. Huge thanks to Peter, Riley, An...2021-03-1956 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 11 - Yvonne Milne MBEMy podcast conversation today is with Yvonne Milne, MBE, mother to Clare and Founder of the Rett Syndrome Association UK, now known as Rett UK. Clare, now 39, was the first person to be diagnosed with Rett Syndrome in the UK and since that day, Yvonne has made it her mission not only to give Clare a healthy a life as possible, but to support other parents and families living with Rett Syndrome all well. Through this enlightening conversation, Yvonne and I cover so much, about finding a diagnosis for Clare, starting a patient organisation in...2021-03-1256 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 10 - Steph WoodThis week’s podcast is with Steph Wood who lives with her husband and young daughter Emilia, in Dornoch in the very far North of Scotland. Emilia is the magic age of four. That beautiful age when a child’s true personality begins to emerge; when they start setting out into the world somewhat independently of their parents, developing preferences for particular other little people and become a tiny friend themselves. So how is life different when you have a four-year-old with Rett Syndrome? How can you tell who they are without speech? How can you...2021-03-0557 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 09 Mark ReillyThis week we have a change of presenter, me, Andy Stevenson. It was a real pleasure to spend some time talking to former Professional Footballer, Ironman and dad to Dionne, Mark Reilly. Mark and I have known each other for a good few years now. We have a lot in common with him and my dad being born in Bellshill, Scotland, they both played professional football with their first club being Motherwell and us both doing the National 3 Peaks as our first challenge for Reverse Rett. Mark is also just 2 weeks younger than me. 2021-02-261h 03
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 08 Joanna TomlinFor Joanna Tomlin, life with 34-year-old Keisha, who has Rett Syndrome has been tough enough for the last few years, without a global pandemic. In recent years, the family lost Keisha’s much beloved Dad, Mark, to cancer as well as dealing with another complex gastrointestinal disease for Keisha, on top of Rett Syndrome. Despite all this, my conversation with Joanna was startlingly stoical, uplifting, inspiring and even funny at times. Jo, her two daughters and granddaughter have pressed on through the last year of lockdown, shielding Keisha at home and even surviving Covid. ...2021-02-1853 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 07 Katie SamsonAnyone with a child with Rett Syndrome remembers the pain of hearing those words for the first time. That moment is seared on our hearts forever; fear for the life we’ve been plunged into, fear for the future that lies ahead, and fear of what will happen to them after we are gone. But what if that first time you heard the words ‘your child has Rett Syndrome’ was not the last? What if your child with Rett had a twin; a twin who was happily growing and learning and changing? What if you...2021-01-181h 01
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 06 Ross McKinneyLater this year, come what may, Civil Engineer and Dad of four, Ross McKinney and fellow teammates, Ian, Duncan, Fraser and Clive will be setting off to complete the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge for Reverse Rett. I don’t know much about rowing but with everything that’s happening in the world right now, I reckon escaping to row the Atlantic might not sound like such a bad thing to many people who are listening to this podcast…apart from your own physical effort being the only thing moving you across an actual ocean issue. During...2021-01-0753 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 05 Helen CromptonFor most parents, our worst nightmare is that our child stops breathing. In Rett Syndrome, breathing problems are commonplace, but what would you do if your child needed to be resuscitated? Worse still, what if they weren’t able to be saved? In this episode, I’m speaking to the brave and brilliant, Dr Helen Crompton, whose daughter Shelley, died in 1994 at the age of 11. It was a privilege to speak with Helen about how she both overcame and learned to live alongside her grief by doing first a degree, then a Masters, then...2020-12-1656 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 04 Rita Ross This week’s podcast guest is fellow Reverse Rett Co-Founder and Trustee, Rita Ross. Rita and I met over a decade ago, when a small group of parents formed the charity back in 2009. Apart from the fact that Rita had a successful career in banking as well as a young daughter, Frankie who has Rett, I didn’t really know anything about her. Even after all these years of shared interest in our common goal, we still barely ever get the time to sit down and talk. In this episode, we talk about now t...2020-12-0459 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 03 Dr Ruksana AhmedOn this week’s podcast, I’m speaking to Dr Ruksana Ahmed, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at New Centre for Personalised Medicine in Rett Syndrome, based under the National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, CIPPRD, at the Maudsley Hospital in South London. During our conversation, Ruksana and I touch on those all too familiar feelings; shame, guilt and loss, as well as those critical moments in our experience as Rett parents which may influence our mental health and resilience in the long term. We also cover questions re Covid-19; are Rett parents are bett...2020-11-251h 18
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 02 Zillah RainbackHave you ever imagined your child owning their own home? Not such an unusual question for most people. But if your child has Rett Syndrome, this sort of every day dream is often out of reach. Or at least, it might feel that way. My guest on the podcast today is Zillah Rainback who managed to achieve exactly that on behalf of her then 19 year old daughter Hannah, who has now lived independently with support for ten years, in her very own home. Find out more about how Zillah made this dream a reality by...2020-11-1745 min
The Reverse Rett PodcastEp 01 Catherine ColesA diagnosis like Rett Syndrome can be isolating for families as they learn to adjust to their new normal, whilst everyone around them carries on ‘business as usual.’ In this episode of the Reverse Rett Podcast, I’ll be talking to fellow mother to a 25-year-old daughter with Rett who now lives in Spain, Catherine Coles who also happens to be my lifelong friend. From diagnosis, to divorce, to our truly darkest moments, nothing is left uncovered in this intimate conversation. To find out more about Rett Syndrome visit: https://www.reverserett.org.uk2020-11-031h 16
TNTWeeklyEpisode # 25 The Stevenson Memorial Hospital Redevelopment PlansPresident and CEO Jody Levac and Corporate Communications Officer Rachael Ogorek are on the podcast to discuss everything about our local hospital expansion plans.The community of New Tecumseth and beyond needs this hospital and this redevelopment to continue to give us the medical care we deserve.A very informative interview that you will appreciate.2020-10-2448 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 94 - Hassle Records: 15th Year Anniversary (Wez & Mease)Cutting Our Teeth. One of Europe's most important labels, Hassle Records, are our guests on Episode 94 of Sappenin' Podcast! As the record label celebrates its 15th year anniversary, founder Wez and project manager Mease join us for a chance to pick their brains about our favourite releases and a round table dissuasion about what really goes on behind the scenes. Hear about their involvement with bands like Alkaline Trio, We Are The Ocean, Frank Iero, Canterbury, Alexisonfire, Cancer Bats, Lonely The Brave, Casey, Four Year Strong and more to what life is really like as an independent label, industry...2020-09-111h 09
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 93 - Four Year Strong (Alan Day & Dan O'Connor)Brain Pain. Massachusetts bearded punk legends, Four Year Strong are our guests on Episode 93 of Sappenin' Podcast! Alan Day and Dan O'Connor take a chaotic and laughable trip down memory lane with us as they open up on pretty much everything FYS ever. Get stories on their bizarre lockdown adventures, coming to terms with a new normal, digesting the reaction to their new album, why they're so proud of these songs, the legacy of their classic albums Rise Or Die Trying and Enemy of the World, silly song titles and movie references, artwork inspirations, producers and songwriting, how the...2020-09-041h 32
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 92 - Aaron Gillespie (Underoath)Erase Me. The absolute iconic drummer, vocalist and songwriter that is Aaron Gillespie is our guest on Episode 92 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Underoath creative visionary joins us for a set of honest, funny and in-depth conversations on his astonishing career as we cover everything from the bands impact to their genre defying sound, revisiting cult favorite records for The Observatory live streams, the reasoning for originally leaving and eventually rejoining, secretly recording new music, personal life in lockdown, the recent birth of his second child, cooking, religion, writing for other artists, his side project The Almost and much more...2020-08-281h 06
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 91 - Ryan Potter (The Hunna)I Wanna Know. Indie turned emo punk visionary Ryan Potter is our guest on Episode 91 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Hunna vocalist opens up on the bands incredible journey of highs and lows as they finally have the platform to express themselves. Experience their new era as he discusses their reimagined sound and heavy attitudes, record label heartache, evolving with freedom on new album 'I'd Rather Die Than Let You In', explicit backstage politics, almost breaking up to now working with a collection of his childhood heroes in Fall Out Boy, Blink-182, Twenty One Pilots and My Chemical Romance, personal...2020-08-2156 min
IB Teacher Talk04 - IBDP Mathematics with Peter Stevenson“Life-long learner” is certainly a favourite buzzword in the pedagogy community; but how do we embody this common goal? Maths teacher Peter Stevenson talks with Dan and Rachael about continuing to find new forms of engagement and assessment in the classroom.2020-08-1929 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 90 - Bonnie Fraser (Stand Atlantic)Pink Elephant. Australia's emo vibe queen Bonnie Fraser is our guest on Episode 90 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Stand Atlantic vocalist returns for her own dedicated episode to not only tell us everything going on with the band and their journey, but her own personal stories of her life, love and insane career. Buckle up for a wholesome, deep and chaotic series of conversations on the most random elements you can ever imagine as we celebrate the release of their sophomore studio album, Skinny Dipping reaching 25 million streams worldwide, the pressure she puts on herself, what dark secrets she's actually...2020-08-141h 04
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 89 - Matt Cutshall (Emo's Not Dead)Emo's Not Dead. Internet personality sensation and awesomely talented human Matt Cutshall is our guest on Episode 89 of Sappenin' Podcast! The 'Felt Emo Might Delete Later' cult leader is doubling up on the eyeliner as he talks to us about the rejuvenation of everything alternative. Get those skinny jeans on and prepare for a wild ride as we get all the gossip on his insane career of acting, comedy, creating viral content, how these emo videos actually started, re-inspiring the scene, working with bands like The Used and Hawthorne Heights, future dream collaborations, his time as a vocalist in...2020-08-071h 15
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 88 - In Hearts Wake (Jake Taylor & Kyle Erich)Worldwide Suicide. Australian metalcore environmentalists In Hearts Wake are our guests on Episode 88 of Sappenin' Podcast! Jake Taylor and Kyle Erich take time to showcase how they're trying to save the planet with all the eco-friendly efforts they are taking with their new album Kaliyuga and how the music industry can do their part, mixed with some insanely random conversations. Yes this is a random and educational at the same time. Listen to the four of us talk carbon footprints, plants, recycled vinyl, heavy riffs, Australian rap, didgeridoos, a lockdown wedding, Trump, Wetherspoons, football, nuclear weapons, awful puns, unique t...2020-07-311h 27
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 87 - Neck Deep #2: Neck Deeper (Ben Barlow & Seb Barlow)All Distortions Are Intentional. Britain's finest pop punk exports Neck Deep are our guests on Episode 87 of Sappenin' Podcast! Ben Barlow returns with his brother Seb Barlow for a series of celebrations to commemorate the release day of their new album (and this time it's deeper... Neck Deeper). Listen to a host of insight, banter and chaos as the four of us discuss the band's slight change in sound, dealing with massive pressure behind the scenes, how Seb finally became a official member after being involved since day one, his established producing career, an update on the whole FUCK...2020-07-241h 24
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 86 - Knuckle Puck (Joe Taylor & Nick Casasanto)Breathe. Chicago emo punk force, Knuckle Puck are our guests on Episode 86 of Sappenin' Podcast! Joe Taylor and Nick Casasanto take a step into the weird and wonderful world of Sappenin' as they open up on their new alum 20/20, their reputation as one of the pop punk scenes most friendly figures, collaborating with Derek from Mayday Parade, finding themselves in similar situations as their musical idols, early demos, breaking down on tour, unsuspected show situations, their favorite conspiracies, The Beatles, Avril Lavigne, the future and more! Lovely and uplifting conversations from a bunch of rad humans. Turn it up...2020-07-171h 10
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 85 - Will Gould (Creeper)Sex, Death & The Infinite Void. Punk's gothic cult leader Will Gould is our guest on Episode 85 of Sappenin' Podcast! The Creeper vocalist draws back the curtains on the bands theatrics, characters and concepts that’s made them the rock titans they are today, in a very artistic conversation that shows their true identity. Get honest insights into their year away from the spotlight, new music, chasing the runaway American dream, unexpected inspirations, creating a real and passionate cult fan base, dramatic image changes, songwriting, mental health, the future and more! Plus find out how we almost got former guest Han...2020-07-101h 21
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 84 - State Champs (Derek DiScanio & Tyler Szalkowski)The Finer Things. International pop punk sweethearts, State Champs are our guests on Episode 84 of Sappenin' Podcast! Derek Discanio and Tyler Szalkowski celebrate the bands tenth year anniversary with a host of candid conversations as we reminisce their journey to becoming one of this generations most influential acts. Uncover unique and untold stories from countless world tours to their first ever practice, becoming the songwriting machines they are today, collaborating with Simple Plan, All Time Low and Blink-182, revisiting their acoustic side with the new Unplugged EP, undergoing speech therapy, chicken nuggets and so much more! We really hit...2020-07-031h 09