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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 69 – The Anglotopia Guide to Cumbria and the Lake District

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 69 - The Anglotopia Guide to Cumbria and the Lake District
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas explores the beauty and cultural significance of Cumbria and the Lake District. He shares his personal experiences, literary connections, and the planning process for his trip, including a writer’s retreat. The conversation delves into the stunning landscapes, historical sites, and the unique charm of the region, emphasizing its importance in British culture and literature.

Links

Takeaways

  • Cumbria and the Lake District are remote yet culturally rich destinations.
  • The region is deeply connected to British literature, especially with figures like Wordsworth.
  • Planning a trip to Cumbria requires careful consideration of travel logistics.
  • Exploring the Lake District offers breathtaking views and unique experiences.
  • The writer’s retreat provided invaluable insights into writing about landscapes.
  • Driving the Hardknott Pass is a thrilling adventure for travelers.
  • Cumbria is a popular holiday destination for British tourists.
  • The local cuisine, including Cumbria sausage and Kendall mint cake, is worth trying.
  • The landscape of Cumbria is characterized by its mountains and lakes.
  • Future visits to Cumbria should include more literary and historical sites.

Sound Bites

  1. “Many would argue that the soul of British culture and literature kind of lives in the Lake District, mostly because of its connections with William Wordsworth and his poetry.”
  2. “It was the furthest point that the Romans went when they had conquered Britain. They actually built a fort at Hardknot that had a view of the Irish Sea.”
  3. “The Hardknott Pass is Britain’s most steepest and dangerous road… it has a 15% grade. The regulations on US highways are like that the grade can’t be more than 3 or 4%. So this is 15%.”
  4. “After she became famous, rich and famous from the Beatrix Potter books, she dedicated herself to preserving the landscape of the Lake District… The reason so much of the Lake District landscape is protected is because of Beatrix Potter.”
  5. “It’s a place British people travel for holiday… if you really want to get a sense of Britishness and how they vacation and how they holiday then Cumbria and the Lake District is the place to go for that.”
  6. “Every turn of the road is like the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen… I had just had no idea how incredibly beautiful England and Britain’s mountain landscapes can be.”
  7. “The sun doesn’t set to like 11 p.m. in the summer… we had these author events that would go to like 11 o’clock and there was still like this twilight at 11 p.m.”
  8. “Getting to Cumbria and the Lake District is the hard part… it’s very remote. It’s as far away from London as you can get going into Scotland.”
  9. “It’s really been a place where people kind of scrap in existence… There was never a lot of wealth generated there like in other places like say the Cotswolds.”
  10. “You really the best way to get around is by car because the Lake District is very poorly served by trains and buses because it’s so remote.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cumbria and the Lake District
05:11 Literary Connections and Personal Journey
10:37 Planning the Trip to Cumbria
17:05 Exploring the Lake District
23:42 The Writer’s Retreat Experience
25:21 Cumberland Lake District: A Legacy of Farming and Writing
26:33 Transformative Writing Retreat Experiences
28:19 The Journey of Self-Publishing and Creative Growth
29:56 Exploring the Hard Knot Pass: A Thrilling Adventure
32:49 Historical Insights: The Hard Knot Roman Fort
34:09 Serendipitous Discoveries: Riding the Steam Railway
35:09 Moncaster Castle: A Historical Exploration
38:03 Reflections on the Cumbria Experience
39:58 Cultural and Historical Significance of the Lake District
43:29 Travel Tips and Recommendations for the Lake District
49:09 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 68 – Exploring Britain’s Canine Aristocracy With Agnes Stamp’s Country Life Book of Dogs

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 68 - Exploring Britain's Canine Aristocracy With Agnes Stamp’s Country Life Book of Dogs
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Agnes Stamp, author of ‘Country Life’s Book of Dogs.’ They explore the rich history of dogs in British aristocracy, the inspiration behind the book, and Agnes’s personal experiences with various dog breeds. The conversation delves into the role of dogs in society, the impact of photography on public perception, and delightful anecdotes from history. Agnes shares her journey to writing the book and discusses the importance of preserving vulnerable native breeds. The episode is a celebration of the bond between humans and dogs, highlighting their significance in British culture. Special guest stars include Jonathan’s King Charles Cavalier Spaniel Cooper.

Links

Takeaways

  • The book is a love letter to dogs.
  • Dogs have been part of Country Life’s editorial makeup since its inception.
  • Agnes has a deep love for all dog breeds.
  • Historically, dogs served various purposes in society.
  • The shift from working dogs to companion dogs reflects societal changes.
  • Photography has played a crucial role in shaping public perception of dogs.
  • Agnes’s personal experiences with dogs influenced her writing.
  • The importance of preserving vulnerable native breeds is emphasized.
  • Humans and dogs share a unique bond that transcends time.
  • The book offers a snapshot of the breeds dear to Country Life.

Sound Bites

  • “Princess Diana actually called them a moving carpet of corgis because she was always had them at her ankles.” – Agnes describing Queen Elizabeth II’s famous corgi pack.
  • “on his wedding night when Napoleon went back to the covers to hop into bed with Josephine, fortune popped out and savaged Napoleon.” – The story of Josephine Bonaparte’s pug attacking Napoleon on their wedding night.
  • “Lord Byron had his beloved Newfoundland, Bowson… But a little known fact is that he also kept two bulldogs during his time at Cambridge University. And they were called Savage and Smut.” – Revealing Byron’s lesser-known bulldogs with memorable names.
  • “all I observed was the silliness of the king playing with his dogs all the while and not minding the business.” – Samuel Pepys’ 1666 critique of King Charles II’s obsession with his spaniels during government meetings.
  • “And when one of the young princes appears on screen, she says, you know, could be William could be George. And then as soon as a corgi appears, she says instantly that Susan.” – Queen Elizabeth II recognizing her dog before her own grandchildren in family videos.
  • “the tale of Laszlo, the Dan-Diedenmont Terrier… this particular Terrier terrorized Boris Johnson when he was editing The Spectator.” – A vulnerable native breed dog giving the future PM trouble.
  • “there are great kennels at an estate here called Goodwood, which by the way had heating before the main house did.” – The priority given to prize foxhounds over human comfort in aristocratic estates.
  • “Dachshunds had a bit of a, you know, rough deal in this country historically… They were persecuted for being German.” – The unfortunate wartime treatment of German dog breeds in Britain.
  • “I think beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I agree. I mean, I don’t think any dog could be described as grotesque.” – Agnes diplomatically defending all dog breeds when asked about “grotesque looking dogs.”
  • “They said that Staffies should have a tail like a old fashioned pump handle and Titan really did.” – A charming breed standard description that perfectly matched Agnes’s own dog.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to the World of Aristocratic Dogs
  • 03:03 The Inspiration Behind the Book
  • 06:56 Agnes Stamp’s Journey as a Writer
  • 12:06 The Role of Dogs in British Aristocracy
  • 17:00 Selection Criteria for Dog Breeds
  • 21:09 Delightful Discoveries in Dog History
  • 22:57 Exploring the Royal Kennel Club Library
  • 24:05 Anecdotes of King Charles Spaniels
  • 25:09 Researching Dog Breeds and Historical Figures
  • 26:32 Captivating Stories of Dogs in History
  • 28:25 Monarchs and Their Love for Dogs
  • 30:08 The Aristocratic Appeal of Basset Hounds and Dachshunds
  • 31:38 The Shift from Working Dogs to Companions
  • 35:14 Preserving Britain’s Canine Heritage
  • 37:26 The Role of Photography in Dog Culture
  • 40:06 Takeaways for Non-Dog Owners
  • 41:28 Choosing the Right Dog Breed
  • 44:04 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

YouTube Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 67 – From Downton to Clarkson’s Farm – How TV Shows Are Transforming Cotswolds Tourism with Tom Burdett

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 67 - From Downton to Clarkson's Farm - How TV Shows Are Transforming Cotswolds Tourism with Tom Burdett
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Tom Burdett, Managing Director of StayCotswold, about the enchanting Cotswolds region. They discuss the area’s appeal to international travelers, the impact of film and television on tourism, and the advantages of self-catering accommodations. Tom shares insights on the evolution of StayCotswold as an online destination for booking self-catering accommodation in the Cotswolds, the importance of local experiences, and practical tips for visitors, including driving in the UK and must-see locations. The conversation highlights the Cotswolds’ unique charm and the benefits of exploring it like a local.

Links

Takeaways

  • The Cotswolds is a magical place for travelers.
  • Self-catering offers more freedom and space than hotels.
  • Driving in the Cotswolds unlocks hidden gems.
  • Borton on the Water is a must-see destination.
  • Clarkson’s Farm has significantly boosted local tourism.
  • The Cotswolds is known for its unspoilt beauty.
  • Local pubs provide a traditional dining experience.
  • Pre-arrival information helps guests plan their stay.
  • The Cotswolds has something to offer all year round.
  • Experience the Cotswolds like a local for the best adventure.

Sound Bites

  • 1. The Clarkson Connection: “Do you know where Clarkson’s Farm is? Diddly Squat? I live two miles from that. That puts it on the map.”
  • 2. Holiday Happiness: “What surprised me is how generally happy and positive the people are in holiday letting. People are going on holiday, what’s not to like?”
  • 3. Instant Gratification: “If we list a holiday cottage today, it’ll usually get a booking by the end of the day. Someone will be arriving within a week.”
  • 4. Quality Over Quantity: “We don’t want to be the biggest because I don’t think that always makes you the best. We want to be the best.”
  • 5. The Perfect Cottage: “The ideal property is a double-fronted period cottage with roses around the door and lavender in the front garden.”
  • 6. Local vs. Corporate: “We’re local people on the ground. We have an office in Stow-on-the-Wold. You can pick up the phone and call us or come speak to us face to face.”
  • 7. Year-Round Appeal: “It’s become a year-round destination. You won’t be as busy in January, but you’ll still see people wandering around spending money.”
  • 8. Driving Advice: “Stay on the left hand side for sure. Go steady around country lanes. The speed limit is 20 to 30 miles an hour in most cases.”
  • 9. Authentic Experience: “By staying in a cottage you get a much more traditional and authentic experience. You’re living there, surrounded by people that do live there.”
  • 10. Must-Visit Village: “You’ve got to go to Bourton on the Water. It’s such a pretty village with the river and little bridges. Nine times out of ten people knew where it was.”

Chapters

  • 00:00 Exploring the Cotswolds: An Introduction
  • 05:06 Transitioning from Estate Agency to Holiday Lettings
  • 09:46 The Cotswolds: A Year-Round Destination
  • 14:30 Defining the Cotswolds: Geography and Identity
  • 19:31 The Allure of Self-Catering in the Cotswolds
  • 24:26 The Impact of Film and Television on Tourism
  • 25:31 Authentic Cotswolds Experience in a Cottage
  • 26:58 Maximizing Your Cottage Stay: Tips for First-Time Visitors
  • 28:30 Internet Connectivity in Cotswold Cottages
  • 29:16 Seasonal Patterns and Visitor Trends
  • 29:42 Driving in the UK: Overcoming American Fears
  • 32:33 Must-See Cotswolds Itinerary for Short Visits
  • 33:58 The Future of Holiday Lettings in the Cotswolds
  • 35:56 Dining and Cultural Differences in the Cotswolds
  • 37:04 Myths Americans Believe About the Cotswolds
  • 38:56 Impact of Clarkson’s Farm on Cotswolds Tourism
  • 41:25 Final Recommendations: Bourton on the Water and Beyond
  • 43:37 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 66 – From Wedding Gowns to Winston Churchill – The Hidden Stories of Blenheim Palace’s Collections

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 66 - From Wedding Gowns to Winston Churchill - The Hidden Stories of Blenheim Palace's Collections
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Carmen Alvarez, the collections and conservation manager at Blenheim Palace. They discuss the significance of Blenheim Palace, its new exhibitions, the challenges of conserving historical garments, and the evolution of public engagement in heritage conservation. Carmen shares insights into the Ladies of Blenheim exhibition, the legacy of Winston Churchill, and future projects aimed at enhancing visitor experiences.

Links

Takeaways

  • Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant historical landmark.
  • The Ladies of Blenheim exhibition highlights the fashion and stories of remarkable women in the palace’s history.
  • Conservation of historical garments requires meticulous care and innovative techniques.
  • Public engagement has evolved significantly over the past 75 years at Blenheim Palace.
  • Winston Churchill’s connection to Blenheim is deeply rooted in his family history and personal experiences.
  • The conservation team faces unique challenges due to the palace’s living environment.
  • Blenheim Palace aims to make exhibitions accessible and engaging for all visitors.
  • Future projects will focus on immersive experiences to enhance visitor understanding of history.
  • The palace’s collection includes unique items that reflect its rich heritage and history.
  • Carmen Alvarez’s journey from welcome team supervisor to conservation manager showcases the importance of passion and dedication in heritage conservation.

Sound Bites

1. The Lost Dress Discovery (26:15-26:45) “Everyone thought it was lost, but it was in there all along. Just everyone was picturing it white. And because of course the silk with the time and damage, light damage and everything has turned that ivory color… So I found the lost dress. So for me that is something that I hope to be remembered by.”

2. The Reused Coronation Gown (5:53-6:10) “After the war, the country was coming out, the clothes rationing. So she didn’t want to spend too much money on new garments and everything around it. So she decided to repurpose and reuse what was worn by Consuelo Vanderbilt in 1911 and worn twice.”

3. Conservation Challenges (8:08-8:25) “We will never be a museum. We are a living space. So as much as you want to control the environment, environmental levels, like the temperature, humidity, the light levels… When it’s hot, we need to open windows.”

4. The “Angriest Curator” Method (15:12-15:19) “Normally people say that the best way of conserving things is having the angriest curator shouting at people. So maybe that helps as well.”

5. First Thing After Closing (28:43-28:50) “The first thing, hoovering, to be 100% honest. This is so important, actually. The guides… they grab the hoovers and they hoover the whole palace.”

6. Winston’s Best Decisions (35:53-36:05) “He said that he made the two best decisions of his life, that Blenheim would want to be born and the other one to marry, because he proposed to Clementine, his wife, at the Temple of Diana at Blenheim Palace.”

7. Heritage Belongs to Everyone (39:04-39:15) “I’m a believer that heritage does not belong to one single person or a group of people. Heritage is something that is a witness of the past, of the history of a group, a nation.”

8. The Roof Reality Check (40:28-41:03) “You walk into the building and you think, my God, this place is incredible. It’s so well preserved… But you would never know how many buckets were holding the leaks, the water filtration coming from the actual roof.”

9. The Strong 10th Duchess (11:52-12:05) “It’s funny because her husband wrote that she was a female general while he was only a captain. I think that represents her character. She was very much involved with the family, with the local community, with the charity.”

10. Making History Accessible (45:27-45:40) “We want to do it in a way that we know our guests are gonna enjoy… how can we share the history of Blenheim in different ways. Rather than a printed board, let’s do it in a different way.”

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Blenheim Palace and Carmen Alvarez
  • 02:51 The Ladies of Blenheim Exhibition
  • 05:39 Challenges in Conserving Historical Garments
  • 08:50 Environmental Control in Heritage Conservation
  • 11:35 The Meet the Collections Experience
  • 14:33 Conservation of Tapestries at Blenheim
  • 17:44 Carmen Alvarez’s Journey at Blenheim Palace
  • 20:39 Unexpected Discoveries in the Collection
  • 25:34 Rediscovering Lost Treasures
  • 27:13 A Day in the Life at Blenheim Palace
  • 29:23 Behind Closed Doors: Life After Hours
  • 30:28 75 Years of Public Access: A Conservation Journey
  • 33:35 Unique Treasures of Blenheim Palace
  • 36:03 Winston Churchill’s Legacy at Blenheim
  • 38:48 The Significance of UNESCO World Heritage Status
  • 40:04 The Roof Project: A Major Conservation Effort
  • 44:22 Future Projects and Visitor Experiences
  • 47:54 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 65 – Lynne Murphy – The American Linguist Who Has Decoded British English For 25 Years

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 65 - Lynne Murphy - The American Linguist Who Has Decoded British English For 25 Years
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Lynne Murphy, a linguistics professor and author, about the fascinating differences between British and American English. Lynne shares her journey from the US to the UK, her experiences documenting language differences, and the cultural implications of these variations. They discuss common myths, embarrassing language moments, and the impact of technology on language evolution. Lynne offers insights into navigating linguistic and cultural differences for those moving between the two countries.

Links

Takeaways

  • Lynne Murphy has spent over two decades studying language differences between Americans and British people.
  • She started her blog ‘Separated by a Common Language’ to document her experiences with language differences.
  • The idea that British English is older than American English is a common myth.
  • Both British and American English have their own superiority and inferiority complexes.
  • Language is constantly evolving, and there are always new differences to explore.
  • Lynne’s book ‘Prodigal Tongue’ delves into the history and social forces behind language differences.
  • Cultural perspectives greatly influence how language is perceived and used.
  • Embarrassing language moments can happen when switching between British and American English.
  • Technology and social media are facilitating the exchange of language between the two cultures.
  • Being humble and curious is key to navigating linguistic differences.

Soundbites

  1. On British superiority complex: “I don’t call myself an Anglophile. I know the English too well.”
  2. On language myths: “British English didn’t exist until American English existed. You know, that term came up much later than the term American English because, you know, it wasn’t until the British had an opposite side, that they became one thing.”
  3. On the herb/herb debate: “Where Americans say herb and the British say herb, it’s actually older not to say the H… But the British added it back in, in the 19th century.”
  4. Cultural misunderstanding moment: “My husband said to my goddaughter, ‘Get away from me, you slutty child.’ So that was embarrassing.” [In British English, ‘slutty’ historically meant sloppy/untidy]
  5. On American grammar obsession: “Americans care more about grammar than about things like accent, whereas the British are very attuned to accents.”
  6. Her daughter’s revelation: “When my daughter was two, she said ‘daddy says bath and you say bath.’ And I said, ‘what are you going to say?’ And she said, ‘bath.’ …she realized that I was wrong. Everybody else was right.”
  7. On relationship communication: “If I ever say ‘sure’ to answer a question, I get a lot of pushback… he’ll say, ‘shall I make chicken for dinner?’ I’ll say ‘sure.’ And he’ll say, ‘all right, I’ll make omelets instead.'”
  8. On endless discoveries: “I’ve been here 25 years… This week I blogged about American ‘in the fine print’ versus British ‘in the small print.’ I had never noticed that before somebody pointed out to me this week.”
  9. On language persistence: “For nine years, I did a difference of the day every day [on Twitter] and I hardly ever repeated… there are that many differences to talk about.”
  10. Advice for expats: “Don’t try to use the naughty words because you won’t do it right… So many Americans will come over and they’ll want to say bloody and wanker. And they will not use them in the right places.”

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Language Differences
  • 05:47 The Birth of a Blog
  • 09:41 Exploring the Book’s Origins
  • 14:27 Myths and Misconceptions in English
  • 18:17 The Evolution of English Language
  • 20:25 Personal Anecdotes and Language Gaffes
  • 22:15 Navigating Self-Doubt in Communication
  • 23:02 The Evolution of Spelling: Center vs. Centre
  • 25:08 The Divergence of British and American Spellings
  • 26:45 Pronunciation Differences: Vase vs. Vase
  • 27:16 Code-Switching: Adapting Language in Different Contexts
  • 28:18 American Expressions in British English
  • 30:08 Personal Integration: Language and Relationships
  • 32:02 Parenthood and Language Perception
  • 33:32 Appreciating British English: Embracing Differences
  • 34:41 The Impact of Technology on Language Convergence
  • 35:26 Understanding Humor Across Cultures
  • 36:41 Adopting British Cuisine: A Culinary Journey
  • 37:37 Future of Language: Convergence vs. Divergence
  • 38:53 Advice for Navigating Linguistic Differences
  • 41:24 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

YouTube Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Bonus Episode – Great British Telly – Exploring British TV From Monty Python to Downton Abbey and Beyond

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Anglotopia Podcast: Bonus Episode - Great British Telly - Exploring British TV From Monty Python to Downton Abbey and Beyond
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Note: In celebration of our book launch this week, we’re releasing this special discussion on British TV, but it’s not part of our numbered cadence of episodes. It’s truly an extra episode!

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas discusses the launch of his new book, ‘Great British Telly,’ which serves as a comprehensive guide to British television. He reflects on his personal journey with British TV, its cultural significance, and the rich history of television in the UK. The conversation covers the top 50 British TV shows, the importance of understanding British slang, and current British TV recommendations. Jonathan emphasizes the unique storytelling and humor found in British television, making it a beloved medium for Anglophiles around the world. It’s a fun exploration of this key aspect of British culture and history. The book is available now from booksellers everywhere. Through the episode, Jonathan walks you through how and why he chose his top 50 British TV shows, conducts a reading of the introduction, and ends the episode by talking about all the British TV shows he’s currently watching.

Links

Takeaways

  • British TV is a gateway for many Anglophiles to connect with Britain.
  • The book ‘Great British Telly’ serves as a comprehensive guide to British television.
  • British TV has a rich history, starting from its invention to the present day.
  • The top 50 British TV shows include classics like Doctor Who and Monty Python.
  • The author shares a personal journey of discovering British TV over 30 years.
  • The book includes a deep dive into the economics and cultural significance of British TV.
  • British TV is known for its unique humor and storytelling style.
  • The author emphasizes the importance of understanding British slang for better viewing experience.
  • The book features a section on the impact of British TV on American culture.
  • The podcast concludes with current British TV shows the author is watching.

Sound Bites

  1. “British TV was my gateway drug into becoming an Anglophile.” – Jonathan explaining how British television first sparked his love for British culture.
  2. “I have watched thousands of hours of British TV, much to Mrs. Anglotopia’s probable annoyance.” – A humorous admission about his extensive viewing habits.
  3. “Most people don’t know that TV was actually a British invention.” – Highlighting a key fact about television’s origins that opens the book.
  4. “I like to think that I’m an expert on British TV after all these years.” – Jonathan’s confident assessment of his qualifications after decades of viewing.
  5. “Grand Designs is actually probably my favorite reality British TV show… It’s one of the most memeable shows on the internet.” – His enthusiasm for the long-running architecture series.
  6. “This book has been years in the making… It is 400 pages. It has a lot of content.” – Emphasizing the comprehensive nature of their new guidebook.
  7. “British television didn’t just entertain me, it educated me.” – From the book’s introduction, explaining TV’s deeper cultural impact.
  8. “The painful truth is that I could not include all of my favorite British TV shows on this list.” – Acknowledging the difficult editorial choices in creating the top 50.
  9. “I will die on this hill – British TV is so excellent at historical drama, even still, compared to American productions.” – A passionate defense of British period dramas.
  10. “Mind the gap and enjoy the show.” – His charming British-influenced sign-off at the end of the book’s introduction.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to British TV and Anglophilia
  • 03:01 The Launch of Great British Telly
  • 05:23 History of British Television
  • 08:38 Top 50 British TV Shows
  • 11:33 Honorable Mentions and Long-Running Shows
  • 14:14 Christmas Specials and British TV
  • 15:45 British TV Slang and Culture
  • 18:43 The Economics of British TV
  • 21:12 Personal Journey with British TV
  • 25:54 Conclusion and Reflections on British TV
  • 28:01 The Essence of British Television
  • 34:52 Current British TV Favorites
  • 59:45 Conclusion and Call to Action
  • 59:56 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

Anglotopia Podcsat: Episode 64 – The Real Hogwarts – The Reality of British Boarding Schools of Expat Naomi Kent

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Anglotopia Podcsat: Episode 64 - The Real Hogwarts - The Reality of British Boarding Schools of Expat Naomi Kent
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas interviews Naomi Kent, a British expat and CEO of the Boardroom Company, about her experiences growing up in British boarding schools. Was it like Hogwarts from Harry Potter? The reality is much more fascinating! Naomi shares her journey from living in various countries to attending a traditional girls’ boarding school in England. The conversation explores the daily routines, rules, friendships, and unique experiences that shaped her into a successful businesswoman. Naomi also discusses the misconceptions about boarding schools, the importance of social hierarchies, and the educational benefits of such an environment. The episode concludes with Naomi’s transition to life in America and her reflections on her boarding school experience.

Links

Takeaways

  • Naomi Kent shares her unique journey from boarding school to business.
  • Boarding schools in England have a rich history and tradition.
  • Daily life at boarding school includes strict routines and rules.
  • Friendships formed in boarding school can last a lifetime.
  • The importance of discipline and rules in a boarding school setting.
  • Food at boarding school is often better than stereotypes suggest.
  • Health and sanitation are taken seriously in boarding schools.
  • Social hierarchies exist among students, affecting friendships.
  • Education at boarding schools is rigorous and encourages ambition.
  • Naomi’s experiences have shaped her perspective on education and success.

Sound Bites

  1. “All I remember was saying, oh, that sounds really interesting. That sounds like a great experience. And she was sort of shocked at my response, right? But my thought was, great, no parents around, we can have fun and we can mess around.” – Naomi’s reaction to being told she was going to boarding school at age 11.
  2. “I tried twice to get into that school and failed twice. So we ended up going to different schools, but I basically wasn’t smart enough to go to her school.” – On not getting into the prestigious Cheltenham Ladies College like her sister.
  3. “We would just stick a book in the door so it didn’t close… we just walked to the end of the road and hung out in the street. I mean, that’s all we did. And then of course, we got caught a couple of days later.” – The simple rule-breaking that got her expelled.
  4. “There was one time there was a girl and she was just sleeping in her bed and she was one of these deep sleepers, right? So we just sort of dragged her bed out of the bedroom and into the hallway.” – A classic boarding school prank from weekend boredom.
  5. “I’d say it really hurts when I do this. Don’t do that. Oh. So she would talk you out of your sickness, first of all, to try and get rid of you.” – About the intimidating school nurse at the “San” (sanitarium).
  6. “We would often have like competitions to see who could eat the most number of pieces of toast and who could put the most butter on it and the most Marmite. Again, we’re bored, right?” – The simple pleasures and competitions of boarding school life.
  7. “When you’re at boarding school, you’re sort of frustrated, you’re a teenager, you’re angry, you’re being locked up and all of these things. But now I actually went back… and I was just blown away by how beautiful the buildings were.” – Her changed perspective returning as an adult.
  8. “Everything had my name on it. So we had to sew my name into my socks, my underwear, my tops, my shirts, my everything had my name in it.” – The reality of communal living and shared laundry.
  9. “Are they emotionally strong? Are they emotionally strong kids? If they are, they’re going to really enjoy boarding school and it’s actually going to improve their emotional intelligence.” – Her advice for parents considering boarding school.
  10. “The minute I touched ground in New York, I knew I wanted to be and live in the United States… it was like the reverse. You’ve gone to the UK and you’ve fallen in love with the UK. I came to the USA and I fell in love with the USA.” – On her unexpected love affair with America after her British upbringing.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to British Boarding Schools
  • 04:17 Naomi’s Journey to Boarding School
  • 11:28 A Day in the Life at Boarding School
  • 16:38 Rules and Regulations of Boarding School
  • 20:17 Transitioning to a New School
  • 21:55 House Systems and Rivalries
  • 24:03 Food and Meal Times at Boarding School
  • 26:05 Health and Wellness at Boarding School
  • 26:32 The Role of the School Nurse
  • 29:31 Social Hierarchies and Class Divisions
  • 32:11 Friendships in a Boarding School
  • 34:33 Life Lessons from Boarding School
  • 37:00 Educational Experience and Curriculum
  • 38:45 Rule-Breaking Adventures
  • 41:06 Discipline and Punishment
  • 42:21 Coping with Homesickness
  • 45:21 Favorite and Least Favorite Subjects
  • 47:07 Explaining Boarding School to Americans
  • 49:35 Life After Boarding School
  • 53:18 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Video Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 63: Gone Native – 20+ Years in Horsham – An American’s Very British Life

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 63: Gone Native - 20+ Years in Horsham - An American's Very British Life
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In this episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, former Anglotopia Columnist Mike Harling shares his journey as an American expat living in Britain for over 20 years. He discusses the challenges and joys of adapting to British life, from cultural quirks to the impact of Brexit and COVID. Mike reflects on his writing career, including his Talisman series for his grandsons, and offers insights into the differences between American and British work cultures. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing cultural differences while encouraging Americans to explore the world beyond their borders. Stay tuned after the show for a special message announcing that Mike has decided to write for Anglotopia again!

Links

Takeaways

  • Mike Harling is an American moved to England unexpectedly through a romantic connection.
  • He has lived in Horsham for over 20 years and loves the town.
  • Cultural integration has been a gradual process for Mike.
  • He still struggles with some British customs, like military time.
  • Mike enjoys the work-life balance in Britain compared to the US.
  • He has written several books, including a series for his grandsons.
  • The Talisman series combines history with adventure for young readers.
  • Researching historical events can be challenging for writers.
  • Mike believes that living abroad has broadened his perspective.
  • He encourages Americans to travel and experience other cultures.

Soundbites

1. The Crazy Love Story “I heard myself asking her if she wanted to be my girlfriend. And she gave me her ring. I gave her mine and we promised to be a couple. And she went off on a plane, and I got in my car and banged my head on the steering wheel and said, ‘You moron, you’ve just ruined your life.'”

2. The Five-Day Engagement “I imagine my wife didn’t really know I swore either, because I only knew her for five days before we got engaged. And I looked at that and she looked at that and we thought, wow, we were insane to do that.”

3. The Moment He Knew “And then he turns down this little narrow thing that I know they call it twitten. And I’m like, what’s this? And he goes, oh, it’s a pedestrian path. And that’s where I said, I have to move here. This is a lovely place. Be nice if that girl I met works out. But I got to move here.”

4. Still Struggling After 20 Years “Still the eggs and the military time. I still can’t get my head around. I look at this, 1400, what’s that? It’d be six o’clock. No, it’s two o’clock. Okay, I answered. And the eggs, still I make a lot of scrambled eggs because you hit the egg and it doesn’t work and you hit it again.”

5. The Accidental Anglophile “I had no intention of ever leaving the States. I wasn’t an Anglophile. I wasn’t. I was happy where I was and I just wound up living here and I have to tell you it’s pretty darn nice.”

6. Professional Expat No More “I gave up being a professional expat, you know. I don’t really see anything different here anymore that would be of entertainment or even of any use. I’ve basically gone native. I’m just living here and enjoying my life.”

7. The Insane Advice “If a friend of mine or a family member came to me and said, I just met a girl. I’ve known her five days. I’m going to go to Brazil and marry her. I would duct tape him to a chair and waterboard him until he decided not to do it.”

8. No Safety Net “I didn’t even leave myself like a parachute, you know. I quit my job. I sold my car, gave up my flat. I mean, I had nothing. I left America as a homeless person and came over here.”

9. Accent Blindness “I live here and I don’t pick up if someone’s got an American accent. And I also don’t pick up if anyone’s got a British accent. A British person, American person can come in the room and talk to me. I won’t have any clue that either one is American or British.”

10. The Perfect Life “The sun’s shining. I went into town, walked across the park. That’s how I get into town. Went to a lovely old pub, had dinner with a friend of mine, walked back across the park and now I’m here. It’s just an amazing life. After 22 years, I still have to pinch myself occasionally.”

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Mike Harling and His Journey
  • 01:33 The Love Story That Led to a New Life
  • 05:26 Life in Britain: An Accidental Anglophile
  • 10:03 Cultural Integration and British Citizenship
  • 11:13 Everyday British Quirks and Challenges
  • 17:12 Navigating Brexit and COVID as an Expat
  • 19:31 Reflections on Writing and Life in Britain
  • 21:52 The Evolution of a Blog: From Personal to Historical
  • 24:14 Crafting Tales for Grandsons: The Talisman Series
  • 29:49 Challenges in Historical Fiction: The White Feather
  • 33:40 The Immigrant Experience: Perspectives on America and Britain
  • 37:33 Cultural Exchange: What Americans Miss and Learn Abroad
  • 42:50 Advice on Life Changes: The Leap of Faith
  • 44:01 Bridging Cultures: Understanding Life in Britain and America
  • 47:26 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

YouTube Version

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 62 – The Untold Tragic Story of Titanic’s Sister Ship with Owner and Author Simon Mills

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 62 - The Untold Tragic Story of Titanic's Sister Ship with Owner and Author Simon Mills
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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

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

Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 61 – Jane Austen at 250 – Discussing Jane At Home With Chawton’s Sophie Reynolds

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Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 61 - Jane Austen at 250 - Discussing Jane At Home With Chawton’s Sophie Reynolds
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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

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