In this episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, host Jonathan Thomas interviews Simon Mills, a deep-sea explorer and maritime historian who owns the wreck of the HMHS Britannic, Titanic's lesser-known sister ship. They discuss the history of the Britannic, its sinking during World War I, and the unique aspects of its design that aimed to make it more unsinkable than the Titanic. Simon shares his journey from working in the film industry to becoming a maritime historian, his experiences diving to the wreck, and the challenges posed by COVID-19 on his research. The conversation also touches on the ownership of shipwrecks, the importance of preserving maritime history, and the ongoing exploration of the Britannic wreck.

Links

• Inside the Britannic: Uncovering the wreck of the Titanic's sister ship
• HMHS Britannic - Wikipedia
• The Wreck of the Britannic - Titanic Connections
• PBS Online - Lost Liners - Britannic

Takeaways

• The Britannic was designed to be more unsinkable than the Titanic.
• Simon Mills transitioned from film technician to maritime historian.
• The Britannic sank in 55 minutes, unlike the Titanic.
• Ownership of shipwrecks involves legal complexities.
• COVID-19 significantly delayed research on the Britannic.
• Watertight doors on the Britannic were found open during dives.
• The Greek government has strict laws regarding underwater archaeology.
• Artifacts from the Britannic are now being retrieved for display.
• Every shipwreck has a unique story to tell.
• The Britannic project aims to educate and preserve maritime history.

Sound Bites

1. The Ownership Revelation

"It's actually not as complicated as you think. Everything in the world has got an owner. Doesn't matter where it is. It could be top of the mountain or down at the bottom of the sea... So they will take the money, a very small amount of money in the overall scheme of things. But that's exactly how you do it."

2. The Forgotten Sister Ship

"I always get little bit frustrated with this mostly forgotten or forgotten sister or whatever. Titanic has a big place in history, obviously, because of what happened... Britannic was really supposed to be the answer to all the things that went wrong on the Titanic."

3. The Fatal Flaw Discovery

"The key sixth compartment when we saw that watertight door open on down on F deck, it was opened by about that much, about six or seven inches... you could argue that the Titanic was less well protected from the flooding than the Titanic."

4. The Timing That Saved Lives

"Britannic was on her way out and therefore she was empty. So on board you had little over a thousand crew and medical staff, but there were no patients on board... had it happened on the way back and you had a full ship, a ship full of patients, the death toll could have been humongous."

5. The Unique Access

"The only person who's got permit to go inside is me, basically. And that's because of my rather unique legal position... But it still doesn't mean that I go in just because I want to. I have to have a sort of proper plan to go in there."

6. The Human Element

"He said, for the first time ever, I felt the presence of people... swimming along that working passage, I sensed people being there. It was a rather curious thing for him to say, but I knew exactly where he was coming from."

7. The Rewriting of History

"We are now filling in the other gaps in the story... all of a sudden your flooding analysis is changing completely... it rewrites the dynamic of the sinking. So yes, we're changing the history."

8. The Unexpected Career Path

"I never really set out to buy the Britannic or get too heavily involved in the story... I was doing all the research on the Titanic, but unlike the other programs, I also found myself researching the other two ships. So I somehow became the expert on the Olympic and the Britannic."

9. The Technical Challenge

"It's 400 feet down. So in terms of a man dive down there, I can't do it... for about a 35 minute dive on the wreck, you're probably decompressing for about three and a half to four hours in the water... Now I'm too old for that."

10. The Legacy Vision

"I want to hand over going concern... we turn Britannic into something tangible, rather than some forgotten pile of steel three miles out into the Kier Channel."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Britannic and Its Legacy
• 02:03 The Story of the Britannic
• 06:03 Simon Mills: From Film Technician to Maritime Historian
• 10:47 The Sinking of the Britannic: A Different Fate
• 11:52 Ownership of the Britannic Wreck
• 15:39 Diving into the Britannic: Exploration and Discoveries
• 21:34 Impact of COVID-19 on Research
• 23:21 The Forensic Approach to Documenting the Wreck
• 25:22 Artifact Retrieval and Preservation
• 30:50 Legacy and Future of the Britannic Project

YouTube Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Sophie Reynolds, Head of Collections, Interpretation & Engagement at Jane Austen's house in Chawton, Hampshire, about the enduring legacy of Jane Austen as a literary figure. 2025 is the 250th anniversary of her birth, so there are celebrations at Chawton and all over the world to celebrate this literary great. They discuss Austen's impact on literature, her proto-feminist perspective, and the evolution of her house museum in Hampshire. Sophie shares insights into her journey to working at the house, the immersive experiences created for visitors, and the significance of Austen's writing in contemporary culture. The conversation highlights the importance of preserving literary history and the relevance of Austen's work to modern readers.

Links

• Jane Austen's House Official Website
• Chawton House
• A Jane Austen Year Book
• A Jane Austen Year Podcast
• Places to Visit in Britain for Jane Austen Fans
• Historic First: Jane Austen's Final Home Opens to Public
• Jane Austen: A visit to Jane Austen's Home - Video
• Great Britons: Everything You Need to Know About Literary Great Jane Austen
• Jane Austen Wrecked My Life

Takeaways

• Sophie Reynolds has a background in theater and performance.
• Jane Austen's house is a modest but significant site in literary history.
• Austen's writing was influenced by her experiences and the society she lived in.
• The house has been transformed into an immersive experience for visitors.
• Austen's novels challenge social conventions and advocate for female agency.
• Her characters are realistic and relatable, transcending time and culture.
• Austen's writing style includes free and direct speech, influencing modern literature.
• The museum hosts various events to celebrate Austen's legacy.
• Visitors from around the world come to experience Jane Austen's house.
• Sophie emphasizes the importance of making literature accessible to all.

Sound Bites

• On Jane Austen's modest writing conditions: "So many writers, you know, think of Dickens, his desk is very large and imposing and has a leather top and he had a lovely comfy chair and he had his own room that he could shut the door... Jane Austen didn't have that. She had this tiny, tiny, funny little table and it's barely big enough for a sheet of paper."
• On making the house feel lived-in: "We wanted to make the house feel populated... we have recordings of actresses speaking from Jane Austen's letters or from her novels. So there's a kind of little background, little hubbub. It's not intrusive, but it's just the sense that the house is occupied."
• On Austen as a proto-feminist: "She wrote realistic female characters... She doesn't give her male characters particular... they're not as three-dimensional as our female characters. They don't have thoughts and as much to say in the way that you sort of might expect."
• On visitor reactions to the writing table: "We get many visitors who burst into tears over the writing table because not only is it seeing where this extraordinary writer who they admire so much worked but it's such a tiny table. It's so modest."
• On Austen's real personality: "People seem to sort of have this idea of her as a very gentle, romantic soul in a bonnet and a long dress... And actually she was a very spiky person... she wrote some extraordinary letters to her sister where she is very rude about their neighbors and their friends and their family."
• On the challenge of literary house museums: "Something that's really difficult to do and that most museums don't do is set out to really showcase the creative life of that person... most museums... show the domestic life... the pots and pans, the cups and saucers, and maybe the clothes."
• On Austen's teenage writings: "They are so not what you would expect Jane Austen to be writing. They are really wild... There's a character who she kidnaps her children, they eat her fingers and they're all on a raft at sea."
• On the pilgrimage aspect: "For a lot of people, visiting Jane Austen's house is almost like a kind of pilgrimage. People... just love Jane Austen so much and it's an incredibly important... They want to have a very moving experience. They want to sense something about Jane Austen's presence there."
• On her literary innovations: "She wrote realistic novels in a time when that really wasn't the norm... After Jane Austen, that does become much more what the English novel is doing... She wrote really brilliant, realistic dialogue."
• On Austen's enduring cultural impact: "Once you start to sort of look for it and you get your eye in, she is in sort of every aspect of our culture... the first line of Pride and Prejudice... has been turned into every single imaginable universal truth that you could imagine on coffee mugs and on t-shirts."

Chapters

• 00:00 Celebrating Jane Austen's Legacy
• 13:50 Sophie Reynolds' Journey to Jane Austen's House
• 27:55 The Evolution of Jane Austen's House Museum
• 41:45 Jane Austen's Feminism and Literary Innovations
• 55:25 Daily Life and Creative Process of Jane Austen

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Charles Rosenay, a seasoned Beatles tour guide and cultural ambassador for Liverpool. They explore the evolution of Beatles tourism, the significance of iconic locations like the Cavern Club, and the hidden gems of Liverpool that fans should not miss. Charles shares memorable experiences from his tours, the emotional reactions of fans, and the changing relationship between Liverpool and its Beatles heritage. The conversation also touches on the impact of the internet on tourism, the joy of sharing Beatles history, and the best times to visit Liverpool for an immersive experience.

Links

• www.LiverpoolTours.com
• The Book of Top 10 Beatles Lists (Amazon Link)
• www.BookOfTop10BeatlesLists.com
• Liverpool Tours on Facebook
• International Beatle Week
• Visit Liverpool Website

Takeaways

• Charles Rosenay has been a Beatles tour guide since 1983.
• Liverpool has transformed into a vibrant cultural destination.
• The Cavern Club is a must-visit for Beatles fans.
• Emotional reactions from fans often include tears of joy.
• Beatles Week in August is the best time to visit Liverpool.
• Hidden gems like the Jacaranda are essential stops.
• The Beatles' childhood homes are significant historical sites.
• Balancing myth and history is crucial in storytelling.
• Liverpool's character is shaped by its people and culture.
• The internet has changed how Beatles tourism operates.

Soundbites

1. The Origin Story

"I fell in love with them like millions of other people of a certain age on February 9th, 1964 when they appeared on the Ed Sullivan show. Watched it, fell 100% in love with it, realized there was more to the world than just monster movies and kindergarten and baseball."

2. Liverpool as Sacred Ground

"Liverpool was that holy land, the holy grail destination for me. When I was young, I would clip every article, everything that said John Paul, George Ringo. But I would also, if it said the tall ships are sailing into Liverpool, I would cut that out."

3. The Emotional Kiss

"She got off the coach, set foot in Liverpool, bowed down and kissed the ground. I said, you guys planned that, huh? She goes, 'No, my gosh. That was so spontaneous. I didn't even think I was going to do that.'"

4. The Fifth Beatle Revelation

"There was that debate, if you're a Beatles fan, the debate was who was the fifth Beatle? Was it Brian Epstein? Was it Billy Preston? Was it George Martin? The fifth Beatle was Liverpool. Liverpool is a personality, it's a lifestyle, it's humor."

5. Liverpool's Transformation

"Back then it was just a dingy, scaffolded, gray like slum backyard area. I remember putting my ears against the walls and just trying to dream what it would be like hearing the Beatles play through these walls. Now it's completely embraced the entire tourism industry."

6. The Cavern Club Legacy

"The Beatles played there over 300 times. It was literally their residency. Life was music and you wanted to be the band that played there. If you do one place that you want to capture the rock and roll and that era and the sweat and the music, it's the Cavern Club for sure."

7. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

"I am so proud, blessed, lucky, I don't know what the word is, 100% satisfaction from the people who go on the tour. Even the best five-star posh restaurant will have its off day. I forgot what your question was, but I think I went on a little tangent there."

8. The Magic of Spontaneity

"Julian Lennon is doing a signing at a toy store in London in two hours. I said, you know what? We're changing our schedule. We can be in Liverpool two or three hours later. We're all going to this event. The 30 of us were in line for him. Eight other people came besides us."

9. Seeing Through Fresh Eyes

"When they get excited, 'Can you take a picture of me crossing Abbey Road?' I know it. I had that feeling in 83 and 84, 85, and year after year. It's the joy of the people going and me loving it vicariously through their eyes and emotions."

10. Beatles Week Magic

"During Beatle Week, you're literally walking street to street to street, hearing nonstop Beatle music. You just pour out Beatles music and that could be a plus or a minus if you're a Beatles fan—this is it, you're in heaven."

Chapters

• 00:00 Exploring Beatles Tourism in Liverpool
• 01:54 Charles Rosenay's Journey as a Beatles Ambassador
• 05:45 The Evolution of Beatles Tours Over Four Decades
• 07:50 Memorable Reactions from First-Time Visitors
• 09:50 The Must-See Locations on a Magical Mystery Tour
• 14:56 The Significance of the Cavern Club
• 16:52 Hidden Beatles Gems in Liverpool
• 19:01 Visiting Childhood Homes of the Beatles
• 20:35 Balancing Myth and History in Beatles Tours
• 23:13 The Unique Character of Liverpool Beyond the Beatles
• 23:25 The Heart of Liverpool: A City of Personality
• 27:14 Evolving Perspectives: Liverpool's Relationship with The Beatles
• 28:43 Beyond The Beatles: Exploring Liverpool's Culture
• 31:37 The Best Time to Visit: Beatle Week and More
• 35:15 Unexpected Moments: Surreal Experiences on Tours
• 39:33 Meeting Legends: Encounters with The Beatles' Family
• 40:30 The Evolution of Beatles Tourism: Then and Now
• 42:10 The Book of Top 10 Beatles Lists: A Unique Perspective
• 43:55 The Joy of Sharing: Passion for Beatles Tourism
• 47:03 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Mary Valentine, founder of Mary Valentine Tours, about her journey from academia to leading boutique tours across Britain. Mary shares her passion for British culture, her experiences with the Women's Institute, and the unique insights she offers to fellow Anglophiles. The conversation covers her recent tour in Northern England and Scotland, the importance of experiential travel, and how to handle unexpected challenges on the road. Mary emphasizes the beauty of the British countryside and the warmth of its people, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of what makes her tours special. In this conversation, Mary Valentine shares her insights on British travel, emphasizing the importance of cultural connections and local experiences. She discusses the balance between showcasing traditional and modern aspects of Britain, the unique elements of her tours, and the challenges of planning and leading them. Mary also reflects on her personal experiences and aspirations for future tours, highlighting the beauty and complexity of British culture.

Links

• Mary Valentine Tours Website
• Calendar Girls Film
• Women's Institute History (Anglotopia)
• How the Women's Institute Began (Anglotopia)
• The WI Official Website

Takeaways

• Mary Valentine turned her passion for Britain into a business.
• She emphasizes experiential travel over traditional tourist attractions.
• Her background in sociology informs her approach to tours.
• The Women's Institute plays a significant role in her story.
• Mary's first trip to Britain at 44 changed her life.
• She has led tours since 2007, focusing on small groups.
• Recent tours included unique experiences in Northern England and Scotland.
• Travel insurance is crucial for tour participants.
• Building relationships with local contacts enhances the tour experience.
• Cultural exchanges in British villages create memorable moments. Advocating for a surrogate hometown enhances cultural immersion.
• British towns maintain rich civic and cultural lives.
• Local communities actively support their cultural institutions.
• Traveling to Britain offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
• Experiencing local life can lead to unexpected connections.
• Planning tours involves complex logistics and relationships.
• Unique experiences set tours apart from others.
• Marketing is a significant challenge for tour operators.
• Scouting trips are essential for successful tour planning.
• The beauty of places like Wales and the Isle of Skye continues to surprise travelers.

Soundbites

• "I can't compete with Rick Steves."
• "I fell in love with Sherlock Holmes."
• "Buy travel insurance."
• "The NHS was so helpful and great."
• "Make friends with your driver."
• "Pick a town or a village."
• "Every village has an arts club."
• "I just called them up."
• "Attitudes to architecture change."
• "I can share a tidbit of information."
• "Do something nobody else does."

Chapters

• 00:00 Exploring the Passion for British Culture
• 05:38 From Academia to Tour Guiding: A Journey Begins
• 11:01 The First Trip: A Life-Changing Experience
• 12:39 Recent Tour Insights: Northern England and Scotland
• 17:58 Handling Emergencies on Tour
• 21:21 Cultural Experiences: The Heart of British Villages
• 28:59 Cultural Connections in British Travel
• 30:10 Experiencing Local Life in the Cotswolds
• 32:19 Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Britain
• 35:03 Hidden Gems of British Culture
• 38:17 Planning Unique Tours: Behind the Scenes
• 49:05 Challenges of Leading Tours
• 52:56 Future Aspirations and New Destinations

YouTube Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Ian Russell, a British voice actor who transitioned from a successful banking career in the UK to voice acting in the United States. Ian shares his journey of adapting to life in South Carolina, the cultural differences he has encountered, and how his British accent has become a unique asset in the American voice acting industry. The conversation also touches on the challenges of maintaining British traditions, the humor differences between the two cultures, and the importance of networking in a new environment. Ian reflects on his experiences as an expat and the evolving nature of his British identity while living in America.

Links

• Ian Russell's Official Website
• Ian Russell Instagram
• Ian Russell Facebook
• Ian Russel LinkedIn

Takeaways

• Ian transitioned from banking to voice acting after moving to the US.
• His British accent has become a significant asset in his voice acting career.
• Cultural differences between the UK and the US have impacted his family.
• Networking in the US is more direct compared to the UK.
• He has embraced American customs like Thanksgiving and Halloween.
• Ian's daughters have adapted differently to life in the US.
• He has faced challenges in voice acting, including accent expectations.
• Tea culture in the US is vastly different from the UK.
• Humor styles differ significantly between British and American cultures.
• Ian plans to spend more time in both the UK and the US as an empty nester.

Sound Bites

On His Career Transition:

"I volunteered as tribute, you know, and they let me go. And then we said, well, what are we going to do next? And so we went, let's sell up. Let's move to the US."

On His British Accent as a Professional Asset:

"You kind of stand out don't you? In a crowd of people there might be 400 people in a room and you probably might well be the only Brit so you stand out and that makes you memorable."

On Cultural Differences in Business:

"In the UK, we're also apologetic about everything... 'Well, I if you really must have my card, you know, that sort of thing.' Whereas here it's like, 'here, buddy, take my card. If you need a voiceover, give me a give me a shout.'"

On Voice Acting Challenges:

"Most British actors think they can do an American accent and most American actors think they can do a British accent. And probably most of the time we can tell."

On Tea Culture Shock:

"They got some iced tea and put it in the microwave to heat it up... I had sweet iced tea with creamer. I was I couldn't drink it."

On American Assumptions:

"Are you from Australia? And I think they sense that I'm from somewhere else, but they're not quite sure where. And so they pick Australia because maybe it's a bit more exotic."

On British Heritage in America:

"Almost every American will claim to have English, Irish or Scottish heritage. And I think that's a desire for the root, where am I from?"

On His Unique Position:

"My naivety when I arrived, I thought I'll be the only one. And of course, I'm not. There's dozens and dozens. But most of us are friends now."

Chapters

• 00:00 From Banking to Voice Acting: A New Journey
• 02:49 Cultural Adaptation: Life in South Carolina
• 05:32 The Voice Acting Transition: Embracing New Opportunities
• 08:25 Cultural Differences: Comparing the UK and the US
• 11:03 Networking and Business Culture: A New Perspective
• 13:55 The Evolution of British Identity in America
• 16:46 Challenges and Memorable Roles in Voice Acting
• 19:34 The Power of Accent: A Unique Asset
• 22:21 Authenticity in Casting: Misconceptions and Realities
• 29:05 Cultural Differences: Tea and Traditions
• 34:34 Assumptions and Misconceptions: Being British in America
• 36:55 Missing Home: British Culture and Food
• 38:34 Embracing American Customs: Holidays and Sports
• 42:27 Humor Across Cultures: British vs. American Comedy
• 44:46 Language and Expressions: Code-Switching and Adaptation
• 49:05 Keeping Connected: British Media and Shows
• 52:20 Future Plans: Returning to the UK
• 54:59 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Gillian Healey, an expert guide in Dartmoor National Park. They discuss Gillian's journey to becoming a Dartmoor guide, the unique features of Dartmoor, and why it should be on every American's travel bucket list (there are several important American connections!). Gillian shares her experiences in international hiking, the importance of qualifications for guiding, and the diverse attractions Dartmoor offers, from its rich history to its wildlife. The conversation also touches on conservation challenges, land ownership issues, and the cultural significance of Dartmoor, including its connections to literature and history. Listeners are encouraged to explore Dartmoor through personalized walking tours that provide a deeper connection to the landscape and its stories.

Links

• Dartmoor Walking Tours - Gillian Healey's Website
• Dartmoor National Park
• Visit Dartmoor
• Down Tor | A Long Dartmoor Walk | 4K Walking Tour
• The Dartmoor Massacre — Why an 1815 Slaughter of American POWs in a British Prison Was All But Forgotten

Takeaways

• Gillian Healey is a qualified Hill and Moorland leader.
• Dartmoor offers a unique blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty.
• Personalized walking tours can cater to different interests and fitness levels.
• Dartmoor's landscape is a living history with ancient sites.
• The Dartmoor ponies are a unique and cherished part of the ecosystem.
• Conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining Dartmoor's natural beauty.
• Land ownership in Dartmoor is complex and affects access rights.
• Dartmoor is a place where visitors can connect with history in a tangible way.
• Guided walking tours provide a deeper understanding of the landscape.
• Dartmoor's cultural connections include literature and film.

Sound Bites

On Getting Lost and Finding Purpose:

"The notorious Dartmoor mist came down and I was with my friends and we got a bit lost, I have to say. And they all looked to me to say, Gillian which way? And I turned around and said, I have no idea. So at that point, I just thought, you know, I love Dartmoor, but I really, if people are looking to me to get them out in and out of Dartmoor safely, I need to gain some qualifications."

The Perfect Sales Pitch for Americans:

"Imagine hiking through vast open moorland where you've got wild ponies roaming free and you can climb up ancient granite tors for huge panoramic views while stumbling across Bronze Age stone circles which are older than the pyramids. You know, there are no crowds there. They're just space, stories and sky."

On Dartmoor's Living History:

"It's not just about the nature and the views, it's also a living layered landscape where you can walk amongst Bronze Age villages and medieval farmsteads and Victorian quarries and you can come across standing stones that are older than Stonehenge and ancient clapper bridges that are still in use today."

Why Walking Beats Driving:

"When you're on foot you really feel the contours of the land, you feel the soft peat beneath your feet and that peat is from thousands and thousands of years of degraded trees and flora... you hear the silence between the wind and the birdsong of the skylarks and you notice the detail that are just invisible from the car window."

On Land Access Rights:

"Everything you say is privately owned. And they're saying, yes, but it's a national park. How can it be privately owned? Then I kind of delve into our history of 1066. William the Conqueror comes in, conquers and divides upon our land... leading to what we still have today, which is only access to 8% of our land."

The Landscape Holds Memory:

"It isn't just a national park, it's a walk through time... And it's just this plethora of history everywhere that you can see that you won't experience anywhere else."

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Dartmoor: A Unique Landscape 05:16 Guiding Experience: Skills and Qualifications 08:58 Why Americans Should Visit Dartmoor 11:21 Personalized Tours: Tailoring Experiences 13:06 Favorite Routes: Discovering Dartmoor's Essence 15:58 Historical Context: The Dartmoor Massacre 17:20 Dartmoor Ponies: A Unique Species 19:48 Preparing for Tours: Research and Recce 22:39 Conservation Challenges: Dartmoor's Ecosystem 24:52 Land Ownership: Understanding Dartmoor's Rights 29:33 Dartmoor vs. National Parks: A Unique Experience 31:16 Connecting with History: Engaging American Visitors 32:45 Cultural Influences: Literature and Dartmoor 34:52 Walking Tours: A Deeper Connection to Dartmoor 36:55 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with author Becky Aikman about her book 'Spitfires,' which uncovers the remarkable stories of American women pilots during World War II. These women, known as the ‘Atta Girls,’ defied societal expectations and took to the skies to ferry military aircraft for the British during a time when their contributions were largely forgotten. Aikman shares insights into the lives of these pioneering aviators, the challenges they faced, and the impact they had on aviation and women's roles in wartime. This conversation explores the remarkable stories of American women pilots during World War II, focusing on their bravery, social lives, and the challenges they faced both in the air and on the ground. The discussion highlights their daring incidents, coping mechanisms for psychological tolls, and the significant social changes they experienced. It also delves into class differences, cultural clashes, and the impact of their contributions on women's rights and aviation history. The legacy of these women is celebrated, emphasizing their determination and the recognition they deserve.

Links

• Spitfires: The American Women Who Flew in the Face of Danger During World War II - Amazon Link
• Spitfires - Bookshop.org link
• Becky Aikman Official Website

Takeaways

• The book highlights the bravery and ambition of American women pilots during WWII.
• Becky Aikman was inspired by her mother's recollection of these women.
• Hazel Jane Rains is a central figure in the narrative of the Etta Girls.
• The women faced significant dangers, including mechanical failures and unpredictable weather.
• Despite their contributions, these women were largely forgotten after the war.
• The British military was more accepting of women pilots compared to the American military.
• The women enjoyed a sense of freedom and control while serving in the war.
• Aikman meticulously researched crash scenes using multiple sources.
• The spirit of competition and ambition drove these women to excel in aviation.
• The story of these women is a testament to breaking barriers in aviation. They lived life to the fullest despite the dangers.
• Winnie Pierce was known for her wild flying style.
• Pilots had to make split-second decisions in crises.
• Compartmentalization was key to coping with trauma.
• The war provided a sense of freedom for women.
• Class differences created initial cultural clashes.
• Social lives were intertwined with their careers.
• Women in aviation paved the way for future generations.
• Recognition of their contributions is long overdue.
• Flying represented freedom and joy for these women.

Sound Bites

• "These daring aviators defied expectations."
• "You could not make this up."
• "The British treated them equally."
• "They were living life to the fullest."
• "They compartmentalized their trauma."
• "It was very freeing for them."
• "It was all about who you know."
• "Women have done this or that."
• "They just did it."
• "They loved that freedom."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Unsung Heroes of WWII
• 03:45 Discovering Hazel Jane Rains and the Etta Girls
• 07:26 Surprising Contributions and Challenges Faced
• 11:36 The Impact of War on Women's Lives
• 13:50 Reconstructing Dramatic Crash Scenes
• 19:29 The Dangers Beyond Enemy Fire
• 23:15 The Spirit of the Women Pilots
• 24:32 Dorothy Fury: A Life of Reinvention
• 27:12 Comparing British and American Attitudes
• 29:10 Navigating Traditional Expectations in Wartime Britain
• 30:08 Living Life to the Fullest
• 31:07 Daring Incidents in the Skies
• 34:21 Coping with Psychological Toll
• 36:23 Social Changes and Personal Lives
• 39:17 Class Differences and Cultural Clashes
• 41:37 The Spirit of the Era
• 43:37 Impact on Women's Rights
• 45:44 Post-War Challenges and Triumphs
• 48:08 Legacy and Recognition
• 49:50 Favorite Warbirds and Personal Connections

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with writer Tony Hargis about her experiences returning to Britain after living in the US for nearly three decades. They discuss her new column 'Brit Buzz', the changing climate in Britain, cultural differences between the UK and the US, and the evolution of language. The conversation also touches on customer service, grocery store culture, dining experiences, and the vibrant theater scene in London. Tony shares her insights on acclimatizing to British life and the surprises she has encountered since her return.

Links

• Brit Buzz
• Rules, Britannia Book
• The Repat Report
• A Brit Back Home
• Cook! Frozen Meals
• National Theatre at Home (Subscription)
• Operation Mincemeat Musical
• Grayson Perry – Delusions of Grandeur (Book & Exhibition)

Takeaways

• Tony Hargis is returning to Anglotopia with a new column called Brit Buzz.
• The UK is experiencing unusual weather patterns, including heatwaves.
• Cultural differences between the US and UK persist, especially in customer service.
• WhatsApp is widely used in the UK, unlike in the US.
• Returning to Britain feels like moving to a foreign country for Tony.
• British food has improved significantly over the years.
• Grocery store culture in the UK varies greatly, with Waitrose being considered posh.
• Dining experiences in the UK can be frustrating due to slow service.
• Theater and cultural events are thriving in London.
• Tony is open to suggestions for topics in her new column.

Sound Bites

On Returning to Britain:

“I had to think of it as moving to a foreign country—that’s how much Britain had changed.”

On Her New Column, Brit Buzz:

“I want to write about life in Britain as it is today—what’s changed, what’s mad, and what makes Britain, Britain.”

On Culture Shock (Round Two):

“I’ve lived here most of my life, but when I came back, I didn’t understand the TV setup or how the bills worked—I had to Google how to use a supermarket trolley!”

On Customer Service in the UK vs the US:

“In Britain, you could die at your table and no one would notice. In America, they’re flipping the table before you’ve finished dessert!”

On British Food Myths:

“Everyone thinks British food is terrible—it’s not. It’s fresh, local, and full of flavor. You just have to get out of London and explore.”

On WhatsApp Culture:

“Every time you make plans, someone creates a WhatsApp group. I went through mine—there were 27 groups. Half of them extinct!”

On Language Differences:

“In Britain, it’s not Blink 182—it’s Blink one-eight-two. I said it the American way and got stared at like I was from Mars.”

On the New Chapter of Her Writing Life:

“This new column is a way of reconnecting—reporting on the absurd, the charming, and the everyday of modern British life.”

On Grocery Store Hierarchies:

“You know you’re in a posh neighborhood when there’s a Waitrose. And yes, I can walk to mine. That’s my excuse!”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Toni Hargis and Brit Buzz 02:34 Weather and Climate Changes in Britain 05:12 Reflections on British Culture and Customer Service 09:13 Technology and Communication: WhatsApp in the UK 11:20 Cultural Acclimatization: Toni's Experience 14:18 Cultural References and British Media 17:17 Americanisms in British English 20:05 Grocery Store Culture in Britain 24:33 The Evolution of British Cuisine 25:54 Cost of Living: A Transatlantic Comparison 30:03 Cultural Insights: Understanding British and American Perspectives 35:13 Navigating Transportation: The British Train System 40:38 Catching Up with British Culture: TV and Theatre 46:49 Future Writing: Eccentricities and Reader Engagement 49:04 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas interviews photographer and adventurer Quintin Lake about his remarkable journey walking the entire coastline of Great Britain. Over five years, Quintin captured the beauty and diversity of Britain's shores through his photography, documenting the challenges and discoveries he made along the way. The conversation explores his inspiration, preparation, memorable encounters, and the profound impact the journey had on his perspective of Britain and himself. In this conversation, Quintin Lake shares his extraordinary journey of walking around the coast of Britain, discussing the challenges and insights gained along the way. He reflects on the beauty of capturing the perfect light in photography, the rich history of places like Northumberland, and the differences in camping rights between Scotland and England. Quintin also highlights the role of social media in enhancing his travel experience, the importance of both natural and industrial landscapes, and the evolving appreciation of architecture. He shares anecdotes of wildlife encounters, the impact of the pandemic on his journey, and the meticulous process of selecting photographs for his book. Finally, he reveals his future plans to climb and camp on the mountains of England and Wales, emphasizing the joy of exploration and discovery.

Producer's Note: You'll want to watch the YouTube/video version of this episode if you can, as Quintin shared a ton of pictures with us that he gave us permission to put into the video (we've also set up a gallery you can browse as well, see links below)

Links

• The Perimeter Book - Amazon Link
• Quintin Lake's Website
• Quintin Lake's Walk Blog
• Gallery of Pictures from the Walk
• Quintin Lake Instagram
• Turn right at Land's End: The story of his 7000 mile British coastal walk
• Notes from a Small Island
• Kingdom by the Sea
• UK National Trails
• Mountains of Britain
• Land's End to John o'Groats Walk
• Thames Path Walk

Takeaways

• Quintin Lake walked the entire coastline of Great Britain over five years.
• His journey was inspired by a meditative walk along the River Thames.
• Preparation for the walk involved both physical and mental training.
• The journey was broken into manageable stages, often using historic counties as guides.
• Quintin faced significant challenges, especially in the rugged terrain of Scotland.
• He encountered many memorable people along the way, including a farmer in Dumfries and Galloway.
• The experience changed his perception of Britain and its diverse landscapes.
• Quintin's photography captures the beauty and drama of Britain's coastline.
• He emphasizes the importance of being present and contemplative while walking.
• The journey taught him resilience and self-knowledge through overcoming physical challenges. Capturing the perfect light is essential for photography.
• Northumberland offers a rich tapestry of history and beauty.
• The right to roam in Scotland allows for more freedom in camping.
• Social media can enhance travel experiences by connecting with locals.
• Industrial landscapes hold as much value as natural ones.
• Architectural appreciation evolves over time and is not static.
• Photographing transient landscapes captures moments that may not last.
• Selecting photographs is a meticulous process that requires careful consideration.
• Wildlife encounters can lead to unforgettable moments in nature.
• Future adventures can continue to inspire and lead to new discoveries.

Sound Bites

• "I'd been a travel photographer for about 25 years and I'd always associated inspiration with the exotic... And then about 12 years ago, I got meningitis and was physically very limited... when my strength came back, I decided to do a kind of meditative slow walk down the River Thames... And the pictures were some of the best I'd ever produced."
• "The Norwegians have this great expression, the doorstep mile, the hardest part of any journey is taking the first step. I'm a great believer, just kind of go."
• "It was 10 times harder than I imagined it would be in the end. But at the beginning I had the naivety of thinking, you know, I just started from London, walking down the South coast and it seemed quite low stakes."
• "I truly had a cosmic experience... I walked to Holy Island, those six kilometers in moonlight... I've got these strange pictures of these things in moonlight. And then I camped on the bay there where the Vikings landed on the north of the island in the sea grass."
• "My first day at Gretna Green into Scotland, I was pulling this 'I'm lost' line when the farmer beckoned me over. But all he wanted to know is if he could advise me the best way across his field, if I needed any food and if I wanted any water."
• "I've never understood why people don't visit kind of nuclear power stations with the same reverence as cathedrals. To me, I don't see a difference there. They are the kind of modern wonders and they're kind of extraordinary and they're visually extraordinary."
• "I strongly resist the idea of Britain being entirely a sort of historical palimpsest... the fascinating thing is that you have these layers of history of Norman Tudor, the whole thing, it's all there, wherever you look, but then you also have these modernist things."
• "There were five otters that just walked past me. I had my hand on the jet boil stove and I just gently turned the sound down and just kept completely silent and they walked past me."
• "What I hope it achieves is the kind of lived experience of what it's like to do a walk like that. That you can walk through a firing range and see blown up tanks. Then you can walk onto a beach and see a bunch of kids windsurfing. Then you can see some piece of classic picturesque England with thatched cottages and pubs and people with dogs."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Quintin Lake's Journey
• 03:04 Preparation for the Epic Journey
• 06:27 Breaking Down the Walk
• 11:34 Memorable Long-Distance Walks in Britain
• 14:44 Personal Transformation Through Walking
• 20:15 Encounters with Strangers
• 22:57 Changing Perceptions of Britain
• 25:39 Challenging Terrain and Beautiful Landscapes
• 27:36 Capturing the Perfect Light
• 30:05 Exploring Northumberland's Rich History
• 31:24 The Right to Roam: Camping in Scotland vs. England
• 33:02 The Impact of Social Media on Travel
• 35:21 Contrasting Subjects: Nature vs. Infrastructure
• 38:36 The Evolution of Architectural Appreciation
• 40:44 The Transience of Industrial Landscapes
• 42:07 The Process of Selecting Photographs
• 46:28 Wildlife Encounters on the Journey
• 48:30 Navigating the Pandemic During the Journey
• 50:37 Daily Routines on the Trail
• 54:41 Future Adventures: Climbing England and Wales' Mountains

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas discusses the new goal for the Friends of Anglotopia membership club and shares insights on how to explore London on a budget of $100 a day. He covers various aspects of budget travel, including accommodation, free attractions, transportation, and dining options, providing practical tips for travelers looking to experience London without breaking the bank.

Links

• Join the Friends of Anglotopia Club to Remove Ads from Londontopia
• Budget London New York Times Article
• How To Do London on a Budget of $100 a Day
• 101 Free Things to do in London
• Free London Museums
• London's Cabmen's Shelters History
• South Shore Public Relations

Takeaways

• The Friends of Anglotopia membership club aims to reach 300 members to remove ads from Londontopia.net.
• Budget travel to London can be achieved with careful planning and smart choices.
• Staying in budget hotels like Easy Hotel can save money on accommodation.
• Many of London's top museums and attractions are free to visit.
• Using public transportation like the Tube and buses is cost-effective for getting around London.
• Eating at fast food chains or local takeaways can help maintain a budget for meals.
• Look for set menu options at restaurants for affordable dining experiences.
• Discount tickets for West End shows can be found at the TKTS desk in Leicester Square.
• Exploring local grocery stores for breakfast and snacks can save money.
• Independent used bookstores offer affordable options for book lovers in London.

Sound Bites

• "The next goal is 300 members. And if we reach the target of 300 members, we will remove the Google ads from Londontopia.net our sister website dedicated to all things London, which has been around almost as long as Anglotopia has."
• "You can do so for the cost of two cups of tea. It's six dollars a month and you get billed every month on the first or you can save 10% by subscribing for the year. It's $64 for the year."
• "$200 a day is a lot and I think that's not that's more of mid-range than budget. So I set out in my mind to to lay out a trip to see if you could do it on $100 a day."
• "Just because you want to do it on a budget or do it on the cheap doesn't mean you're going to have a bad time. Does it mean that you can't enjoy London, London at its best? London is such a great city that there's so much to see and do that's completely free."
• "My recommendation is to stay in one of the cheapest possible chain hotels that is on the market. And it's called the Easy Hotel."
• "You know, even as a 41 year old man who is used to staying in nicer hotels at this age, I'd still consider the easy hotel, especially if I was on a tight budget."
• "This is actually a really easy way to save money because a lot of London's big museums are actually completely free."
• "There is plenty to see and do without doing the special exhibitions. There's, you know, at least I want to say I haven't done an exact count recently, but there's at least 100 museums in London that are completely free."
• "It doesn't cost anything to sit in Trafalgar Square and people watch and watch the fountains and the let the world go by or to stand in Parliament Square and wait for Big Ben to chime, or to walk along the Thames South Bank and watch London go by."
• "As long as you have an Oyster card or you do contact lists, you're never going to pay more than the max daily tube fare, which is eight pounds 90, which is about ten dollars."
• "In addition to the tube, a much cheaper option is the London's bus network. That's what people use every day to commute because the max pay as you go fare for the buses is only £1.75, which is about $2."
• "Since there's no tipping in Britain, the price you pay for the set course dinner is the price you pay for the meal."
• "My travel hack is to go to the TKTS desk in Leicester Square and that's for same day ticket discounts. Most of the London theaters kind of participate in this."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Anglotopia Podcast and Membership Goals
• 06:22 Budget Travel: Exploring London on $100 a Day
• 07:47 Finding Affordable Lodging in London
• 14:24 Free Attractions and Museums in London
• 22:16 Navigating London: Transportation on a Budget
• 29:03 Dining on a Budget: Eating Cheap in London
• 32:54 Conclusion and Call to Action
• 34:11 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas engages historian John Ferling in a deep exploration of the American Revolution, emphasizing its global implications and the international dynamics that shaped the conflict. Ferling discusses his extensive research, the surprising elements he uncovered, and the various perspectives from both American and British sides. The conversation also delves into the role of France in the revolution, the impact of propaganda, and the reasons behind Britain's eventual defeat.

Links

• Shots Heard Around the World Book Link (Amazon)
• Shots Heart Around the World Book Link (Bookshop.org)
• John Ferling's Website
• Friends of Anglotopia Club

Takeaways

• The American Revolution was a global conflict involving multiple powers.
• John Ferling's career as a historian began with a transformative college course.
• Research revealed significant internal dissent in Britain during the war.
• The Boston Tea Party marked a turning point in British-American relations.
• Colonial unity was underestimated by British leaders.
• The role of propaganda was crucial in shaping public opinion on both sides.
• France's secret aid was motivated by a desire for revenge against Britain.
• The French alliance was solidified after the American victory at Saratoga.
• The British military strategy was hampered by logistical challenges.
• Ultimately, Britain's resources were insufficient to sustain a global war.

Soundbites

1. "The American Revolution wasn't just fought in North America—there was fighting in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, on the subcontinent. It really was a global war and a very long war... America's longest war until the war in Vietnam." - John Ferling
2. "I didn't realize that there was as much internal dissension and opposition to the war in Great Britain. By the time a couple of years had gone by, it began to appear as though this was a sinkhole that the British had gotten into... In a sense, it reminded me of the opposition to the war in Vietnam." - John Ferling
3. "Even after the war began for more than a year, about 13-14 months after the war began, the majority of delegates in Congress still were in favor of reconciliation with Britain. They weren't pushing for independence." - John Ferling
4. "The Boston Tea Party makes it sound like a lark, but the fact was that in today's currency, millions of dollars in private property had been destroyed. After that, the mood in England is really to get tough." - John Ferling
5. "What surprised me about Lord North was that he's kind of like the proverbial man riding on the back of a tiger. He can't get off the tiger without being destroyed." - John Ferling
6. "When you go to war, it's like opening the door into a dark room. You don't know what's in that room. And there's always some surprises." - John Ferling
7. "The British underestimated just the size of America... It's a very large continent. And it was so large, in fact, that the Royal Navy, strongest Navy in the world at the time, really could not maintain the embargo that it tried to impose on American trade." - John Ferling
8. "The French believed that the real source of British strength that had enabled Britain to win the Seven Year