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Sophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey
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Sophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey

Author: Sophie Aldred

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Step carefully across the gantry, mind the temporal updraft, and welcome aboard Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey — an interstellar voyage through memory, imagination and the ever-expanding universe of Doctor Who (and far beyond).


Our setting is the venerable Nosferatu 2.5: a ship of distinguished age and debatable reliability, helmed by Sophie herself. At her side stands Hobbes — the gleaming automaton butler, procedural absolutist and tireless enforcer of standards — whose interpretation of “hospitality” occasionally includes decontamination. Somewhere in the circuitry hums the Ffantaface, a device of improbable identity reassignment and narrative necessity. Lurking (or organising, depending on the hour) is Mrs C, Sophie's east end goldfish and guardian of the Ffantaface, whose patience with malfunctioning robots and temporal anomalies is admirable, if not infinite. And behind a door we absolutely cannot open… something continues to knock.


Each week, the Time Scoop reaches into the vortex and deposits remarkable guests on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding — actors, writers, directors, creatives and fellow travellers from Doctor Who and the wider worlds of television, theatre and storytelling. Expect warmth, wit, behind-the-scenes revelations, philosophical detours, laughter, the occasional existential wobble, and the gentle sense that reality is being adjusted around the edges.


But this is not simply a nostalgia voyage. This is a show about you and Who — about fandom, friendship, courage, creativity and the curious ways a television programme can shape a life. Your stories, your questions, your theories and tangents are part of the fabric of the ship itself. Find us at on Instagram, Twitter and Bluesky at aceodyssey63 and step into the conversation.


And for those who feel the pull of the vortex just a little more strongly, there is our Patreon community: episodes ad-free and early, two exclusive podcast episodes every month, online meet-ups with cast and crew, competitions, and the chance to help shape the future of the show itself. Head to www.patreon.com/aceodyssey to find out more!


So check that time is moving in a broadly cooperative direction, steady yourself against the console, and prepare for lift-off.

The Odyssey is already underway.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19 Episodes
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Set aside whatever reality-maintenance you’re currently engaged in (or valiantly postponing), confirm that causality remains broadly intact, and make yourself comfortable as we once more step aboard the venerable Nosferatu 2.5 — a vessel of such distinguished mileage that several of its systems now operate on instinct, nostalgia, and sheer defiance. With Sophie Aldred at the helm, our journey continues through memory, mischief, and those curious junctures where lived experience and myth-making intertwine.At Sophie’s side, as ever, is Hobbes: automaton butler, procedural absolutist, and tireless defender of standards in an increasingly unruly cosmos. Gleaming, exacting, and faintly scandalised by improvisation, Hobbes maintains order in the face of temporal hiccups, unexpected arrivals, and the increasingly insistent matter of the door that refuses either to open or to justify itself. Between them, Sophie and Hobbes negotiate philosophical diversions, mechanical sulks, and the occasional tremor in the space-time upholstery.This week, the Time Scoop vibrates ominously and retrieves none other than Nick Briggs- actor, writer, director, and Executive Producer of Big Finish Productions. The man who gave voice to the Daleks (and, indeed, to a formidable menagerie of monsters), Nick has become one of the most distinctive sonic architects in the Whoniverse. From his early fan-film days through to steering Big Finish into an audio drama powerhouse, his career has been defined by invention, precision, and an almost alchemical understanding of sound as storytelling. With warmth, wit, and an enviable command of vocal cords, Nick reflects on beginnings, breakthroughs, and the curious business of becoming the voice of your childhood nightmares. Once the Scoop’s formalities are reluctantly approved, he joins Sophie on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding for a conversation rich in craft, memory, and just a hint of well-modulated menace.No expedition aboard the Nosferatu 2.5, however, would be complete without a plunge into the shimmering currents of the Ffantaface. that vast, ever-shifting reservoir of fan brilliance. Presiding, as always, is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic observations remain brisk, incisive, and only intermittently charitable. This week’s guide is Ellie Littlechild: writer, presenter, and digital creative force known to many through her work with WhoCulture and across social media, where her sharp analysis and infectious enthusiasm have built a vibrant community of fellow travellers. Through video essays, commentary, and joyful deep-dives into Doctor Who’s lore, Ellie represents a new generation of fandom: informed, articulate, and gloriously unafraid to celebrate what she loves. Together, Sophie and Ellie explore online community, critical affection, and how the conversation around Who continues to evolve, one post, one theory, one brilliantly edited video at a time.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseyEllie's Instagram: @ellie.littlechildEllie's TikTok: @ellie.littlechildEllie's X: @ELittlechildEllie's Threads: @ellie.littlechildEllie's Bluesky: @elittlechildWhoCulture Instagram: @whocultureFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Nicholas Briggs and Ellie LittlechildMusic, Songs. Sound Effects, Sound Design and Post Production by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukSpoons played by Johnny 'Bongo' Haze Programme Assistant Liz WhitmoreWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul CarmichaelSophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Set aside whatever reality-maintenance you’re currently engaged in (or valiantly postponing), confirm that causality remains broadly intact, and make yourself comfortable as we once more step aboard the venerable Nosferatu 2.5 — a vessel of such distinguished mileage that several of its systems now operate on instinct, nostalgia, and sheer defiance. With Sophie Aldred at the helm, our journey continues through memory, mischief, and those curious junctures where lived experience and myth-making intertwine.At Sophie’s side, as ever, is Hobbes: automaton butler, procedural absolutist, and tireless defender of standards in an increasingly unruly cosmos. Gleaming, exacting, and faintly scandalised by improvisation, Hobbes maintains order in the face of temporal hiccups, unexpected arrivals, and the increasingly insistent matter of the door that refuses either to open or to justify itself. Between them, Sophie and Hobbes negotiate philosophical diversions, mechanical sulks, and the occasional tremor in the space-time upholstery.This week, the Time Scoop dispenses with subtlety and retrieves none other than Colin Baker — the Sixth Doctor himself. Actor, raconteur, and gloriously distinctive presence both on and off screen, Colin reflects on a remarkable upbringing, his early path into the profession, and the unlikely turns that led him to step into one of television’s most iconic roles. With characteristic candour and theatrical flourish, he explores resilience, reinvention, and the peculiar responsibility of inheriting a legend. Once the Scoop’s paperwork is grudgingly stamped, Colin joins Sophie on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding for a conversation that is by turns insightful, mischievous, and unexpectedly moving.No voyage aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 would be complete without a descent into the luminous waters of the Ffantaface — that vast and ever-shifting reservoir of fan brilliance. Presiding with telepathic acuity (and minimal patience) is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, who ushers Sophie toward this week’s guide: Katie Haynes — cosplayer, digital creator, and widely celebrated for her striking appearances as the Thirteenth Doctor. Through meticulous costume work, performance flair, and a joyful online presence, Katie has brought her incarnation to life for audiences across conventions and social media alike. Together, Sophie and Katie explore creativity, identity, and the transformative power of stepping into a character who means something — not just on screen, but in the hearts of those who follow.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseyKatie's Instagram: @katiegangelKatie's TikTok: @katiegangel44Katie's Threads: @katiegangelKatie's Bluesky: @katiegangelFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Colin Baker and Katie HaynesMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukProgramme Assistant Liz WhitmoreWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pause whatever interdimensional housekeeping you’re pretending is under control, glance nervously at the door we absolutely cannot open, and join us for something rather special. This week we’re celebrating 15,000 downloads — which is extraordinary, humbling, faintly surreal, and entirely your fault (in the best possible way). Thank you for travelling with us.And because so many of you have climbed aboard recently, we’ve prepared an omnibus transmission: the dramatic story so far. All the peril. All the paradoxes. All the escalating improbabilities stitched together in one gloriously unstable sequence. It’s a chance to catch up — or to experience the chaos afresh — because the truth is… that door won’t stay shut for much longer.Starring Sophie alongside an astonishing constellation of fellow travellers — Sylvester McCoy, Janet Fielding, Sally Knyvette, David Banks, Nicholas Briggs, Russell T Davies and Carole Ann Ford — this is the saga as it stands. A stellar cast. A growing mystery. A gathering momentum.And if you listen carefully… you may even detect a whisper of who is waiting just beyond the threshold next.“Who,” indeed.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Sylvester McCoy, Janet Fielding, Sally Knyvette, David Banks, Nicholas Briggs, Russel T Davies and Carole Ann FordMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukProgramme Assistant Liz WhitmoreWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Set aside whatever reality-maintenance you’re currently engaged in (or pointedly neglecting), ensure time is still behaving in a broadly cooperative fashion, and make yourself comfortable as we once again step aboard the venerable Nosferatu 2.5 — a vessel of such seasoned provenance that several of its systems function largely on memory alone. With Sophie Aldred at the helm, our journey continues through reminiscence, imagination, and those delicate intersections where lived history and creative legacy quietly entwine.At Sophie’s side, as ever, stands Hobbes: the ship’s automaton butler, procedural purist, and indefatigable custodian of standards. Polished to a fault and deeply suspicious of improvisation, Hobbes oversees operations with meticulous care, particularly when faced with temporal anomalies, unscheduled arrivals, and the persistent enigma of the door that stubbornly refuses to open — or explain itself. Together, Sophie and Hobbes navigate temperamental technology, philosophical digressions, and the occasional existential tremor rippling through the bulkheads.This week, the Time Scoop once again demonstrates its aversion to consultation and retrieves Carole Ann Ford — actor, pioneer, and forever woven into the origins of Doctor Who itself. As Susan Foreman, Carole stood alongside William Hartnell when the programme first aired in 1963, helping to define not only a character but the emotional heart of a series that was inventing itself in real time. Her performance combined curiosity, intelligence, and a quiet otherness that grounded the show’s earliest explorations of time and space. Beyond Doctor Who, Carole’s career has encompassed theatre, television, film, and audio drama, marked by a thoughtful engagement with character and story across decades. Once the Scoop’s formalities are reluctantly satisfied, Carole joins Sophie on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to reflect on beginnings, endurance, and what it means to be part of a mythology that never truly stops unfolding.No expedition aboard the Nosferatu 2.5, however, would be complete without a descent into the shimmering depths of the Ffantaface — that vast, ever-shifting reservoir of fan memory, connection, and beautifully obsessive devotion. Standing watch, as always, is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic observations are sharp, forthright, and largely unconcerned with chronological decorum. With the appropriate rituals observed, Sophie is granted access to this week’s guide: Arron Lowe — founder of the online community Friends of Ace.Inspired by Sophie’s portrayal of Ace, Friends of Ace has grown into a welcoming, inclusive space that celebrates not just a character, but the values she represents: courage, loyalty, compassion, and the freedom to challenge injustice. Through community-building, charity initiatives, and shared enthusiasm, Arron has helped transform fandom into something active and connective — a place where admiration becomes action and storytelling sparks real-world solidarity. Together, Sophie and Arron explore how a single character can inspire lasting community, why Ace continues to resonate across generations, and how fandom, at its best, becomes a force for belonging.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseyFollow @FriendsOfAce on Instagram!For listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Carole Ann Ford and Arron LoweMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukProgramme Assistant Liz WhitmoreWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Set aside whatever reality-maintenance you’re currently engaged in (or pointedly neglecting), check that time is still moving in a broadly cooperative direction, and settle in as we once more step aboard the venerable Nosferatu 2.5 — a ship of such distinguished age that some of its mechanisms operate purely out of habit. Under the steady hand of Sophie Aldred, our journey continues through recollection, creativity, and those curious overlaps where imagination, fandom, and lived experience quietly collide.At Sophie’s side, as ever, is Hobbes: the ship’s automaton butler, procedural absolutist, and self-appointed guardian of standards. Gleaming, meticulous, and faintly appalled by almost everything, he oversees the ship with a mixture of diligence and weary suspicion — particularly when it comes to unexplained noises, ill-defined anomalies, and the unresolved question of the door that resolutely refuses to open. Together, Sophie and Hobbes negotiate eccentric technology, philosophical detours, and the occasional wobble in causality.This week, the Time Scoop once again asserts its independence and deposits Tomek Bork — actor, storyteller, and unforgettable as Captain Sorin in the 1989 Doctor Who classic The Curse of Fenric. A Polish-born performer trained in the rigorous traditions of European theatre, Tomek brought a rare gravitas and emotional depth to the role: a doomed naval officer caught between duty, belief, and ancient forces stirring beneath the North Sea. His performance helped ground Fenric’s cosmic horror in human fear and faith, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Beyond Doctor Who, Tomek’s career spans British television, international film, and a long-standing presence at the Edinburgh Fringe as actor, producer, and mentor. Once the temporal paperwork is reluctantly approved, Tomek joins Sophie on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to reflect on performance, displacement, and the quiet power of restraint in storytelling.No voyage aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 would be complete without a descent into the luminous depths of the Ffantaface — that vast, ever-shifting archive of fan memory, interpretation, and lovingly hoarded detail. Keeping watch, as always, is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic commentary remains incisive, opinionated, and only loosely tethered to linear time. With suitable appeasement achieved, Sophie is granted access to this week’s guide: Anthony Lamb — artist and illustrator whose work has become a familiar and much-admired presence across the Doctor Who universe.Anthony has contributed extensively to the visual identity of the range, producing striking artwork and covers for Doctor Who Magazine and related publications. His illustrations capture the breadth of the series — its monsters, heroes, moods, and mythologies — translating complex ideas into instantly recognisable imagery. A creator who understands both the weight of legacy and the freedom of interpretation, Anthony joins Sophie to discuss visual storytelling, the challenges of depicting a constantly evolving universe, and how art helps shape the way fandom remembers, revisits, and reimagines Doctor Who.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredAnthony's X: @AnthonyLambAnthony's Bluesky: @AntLambFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Tomek Bork and Anthony LambMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukProgramme Assistant Liz WhitmoreWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pause whatever task you are heroically attempting (or heroically avoiding), ensure causality is still loosely attached, and make yourself comfortable as we once again board the indefatigable Nosferatu 2.5 — a ship so stubbornly historic that some of its systems insist on doing things the way they’ve always been done, even when no one remembers why. With Sophie Aldred guiding proceedings, our voyage continues through memory, invention, and the softly humming fault lines where fandom, craft, and time itself intersect.Standing crisply at Sophie’s side is Hobbes, the ship’s automaton butler and vigilant custodian of propriety. All polished brass, anxious protocols, and finely honed disapproval, he monitors the ship with a practised eye and a belief that most problems can be traced back to “insufficient filing.” Between them, they manage temperamental machinery, philosophical uncertainties, and the persistent mystery of the door that steadfastly refuses to open — or explain itself.This week, the Time Scoop activates with its customary lack of consultation and retrieves David Banks — actor, performer, and forever etched into collective memory as the chilling Cyberleader of Doctor Who. Across multiple appearances, David helped define one of the series’ most iconic adversaries, bringing authority, intelligence, and an unsettling calm to a role that demanded far more than a silver mask. Beyond the Cyber Wars, his career spans theatre, television, voice work, and audio drama, revealing a performer deeply engaged with character, discipline, and the mechanics of storytelling. Once disentangled from the Scoop (and after Hobbes conducts a stern evaluation of his suitability for command structures), David joins Sophie on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to discuss performance, presence, and what it takes to give humanity to something designed to erase it.No expedition aboard the Nosferatu 2.5, however, would be complete without a descent into the shimmering currents of the Ffantaface — that vast, shifting reservoir of fan knowledge, debate, and beautifully obsessive recall. Standing guard, as ever, is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic observations are sharp, unsolicited, and largely unconcerned with chronology. With the appropriate negotiations concluded, Sophie is granted access to this week’s guide: Beth Axford — writer, researcher, and a familiar voice within the pages of Doctor Who Magazine.As a contributor to the magazine, Beth has explored the series from multiple angles, examining its themes, history, and evolving cultural impact with clarity and insight. A writer with a keen eye for detail and context, she brings both enthusiasm and analysis to her work, bridging the space between fandom and scholarship. Together, Sophie and Beth delve into writing about a show that never stops changing, the responsibility of chronicling a living mythology, and why Doctor Who continues to invite reinvention — both on screen and on the page.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredBeth's X: @0hMySt4rsFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- David Banks and Beth AxfordMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukProgramme Assistant Liz WhitmoreWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pause whatever noble or ill-advised task currently occupies you, check that reality is still behaving itself, and prepare for another courteous bending of the cosmic rules as we return aboard the indefatigable Nosferatu 2.5 — a vessel of such venerable pedigree that certain bulkheads still insist the universe is expanding “quite enough, thank you.” With Sophie Aldred confidently at the helm, our voyage continues through memory, invention, and those peculiar regions where fandom quietly rewrites the laws of time.Attending Sophie with immaculate precision is Hobbes, the ship’s clockwork butler and self-appointed guardian of standards. All brass fittings, clipped vowels, and deeply entrenched mistrust, he oversees proceedings with an air of restrained alarm, firmly convinced that civilisation peaked shortly before the invention of plastics. Between them, they manage eccentric systems, unpredictable machinery, and the unresolved philosophical challenge posed by “the door that refuses to acknowledge it has hinges.”This week, the Time Scoop — once again operating with more enthusiasm than restraint — reaches into the timestream and extracts Sally Knyvette, forever celebrated as the cool, courageous Jenna from Blake’s 7. Actor, performer, and veteran of both studio drama and audio storytelling, Sally brings with her a career spanning cult science fiction, theatre, television, and the expanded universes of audio drama, including memorable work with Big Finish. Once safely released from the Scoop’s grasp (and after Hobbes has conducted a brisk assessment of her qualifications for surviving dystopian futures), Sally joins Sophie upon the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to reflect on performance, endurance, and what it truly means to fly fast ships in very dangerous times.Naturally, no journey aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 would be complete without an immersion into the luminous depths of the Ffantaface — that vast, ever-shifting archive of shared fan obsession and collective memory. Guarding its gateway is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic commentary remains piercing, perceptive, and entirely unconcerned with relevance. Once appeased, she permits Sophie entry to meet this week’s guide: Tim Burrows, co-host of the Doctor Who Missing Episodes Podcast and a tireless explorer of television history.With a scholar’s curiosity and a fan’s passion, Tim has spent years delving into lost episodes, recovered fragments, and the extraordinary detective work that keeps missing television alive in the public imagination. Together, Sophie and Tim explore the strange afterlife of lost stories, the joy of reconstruction, and why sometimes the gaps in the archive are just as fascinating as what survives.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredTim & The MIssing Episodes Podcast on X: @drwhopodcastersFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Sally Knyvette and Tim BurrowsMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 20256 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ghost in the Machine

Ghost in the Machine

2025-12-2425:31

Ghost In The Machine is a standalone Christmas drama set within the world of Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey.At its heart is Sophie Aldred, travelling the cosmos aboard the ageing but indomitable research vessel Nosferatu 2.5. At her side is Hobbes, the ship’s impeccably mannered automaton butler, whose devotion to protocol is matched only by his anxiety about malfunctioning systems and doors that refuse to open. Together, they explore time, memory, and fandom itself — occasionally dipping into the vast psychic archive known as the Ffantaface, where thought, history, and imagination overlap.This Christmas, the ship drifts into dangerous territory.As power falters and old systems begin to awaken, Sophie is drawn into a mystery buried deep within the Nosferatu’s past. A presence makes itself known. A song returns. And a door — long sealed for good reason — begins to matter. Ghost In The Machine is a haunting, atmospheric story that blends folk horror and science fiction, asking what happens when technology remembers the people who once gave it life.A ghost story for Christmas… on a spaceship.CastGhost In The Machine stars Sophie Aldredwith Nicolas Briggs as FredCarole Ann Ford as The PilotColin Baker as the NarratorRussell T Davies as The Ffantafaceand James Showers as HobbesMusic, Sound Design, Sound Effects and Post-Production: Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukWritten, Produced and Directed by: Paul CarmichaelAbout the SeriesEvery Sunday, Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey invites listeners aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 for conversations with guests from across film, television, and cult science fiction. Sophie has welcomed Sylvester McCoy, Katy Manning, Janet Fielding, Susan Twist, and Jamie Anderson, alongside deep dives into the Ffantaface — meeting people who turned Doctor Who into something more than a television programme. All the while, one mystery persists… the door we still can’t open.Available on all podcast platforms.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Check your temporal bearings, ignore the faint smell of ozone, and step once more aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 — a ship of such venerable design that several of her corridors insist on remembering things slightly differently each time you walk through them. With Sophie Aldred at the helm, we continue our elegant drift through time, television history, and the strange emotional weather systems of fandom.Hovering nearby (and polishing something that does not need polishing) is Hobbes, the ship’s indefatigable automaton butler: custodian of protocols, guardian of tradition, and vocal opponent of any mechanism that suggests it might be “opened just to see what happens.” Together, Sophie and Hobbes negotiate creaking bulkheads, unexplained alarms, and the persistent mystery of the door that steadfastly refuses to cooperate.This week, the Time Scoop behaves with particular theatrical flair, delivering Sophie into the hands of Susan Twist — whose presence in the most recent series of Doctor Who carried Sutekh’s chilling gift of death across time and space. Once safely disentangled from the Scoop’s enthusiasm, Susan joins Sophie on the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to discuss the craft behind the spectacle: the joys, challenges, and quiet endurance required to spend six transformative hours in make-up, and the collaborative alchemy that brings such unforgettable moments to life.No expedition aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 would be complete without a descent into the glowing currents of the Ffantaface — that vast, shimmering reservoir of shared fan knowledge and collective obsession. Standing watch at its threshold is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic commentary remains sharp, opinionated, and only loosely related to the matter at hand. With the appropriate permissions secured, Sophie ventures inside to meet Christel Dee: content creator, broadcaster, and co-host of the BBC’s The Whoniverse Show.Together, they explore Christel’s deep-rooted love of Doctor Who, the creative momentum that fandom can generate, and how enthusiasm, curiosity, and community continue to shape new voices and new stories. Along the way, we also learn why “cutting it open” is not always the wisest course of action — whether one is dealing with a sealed bulkhead, an ancient mystery, or a Mars probe with opinions of its own.Thanks to the wonderful team at WHO ON THE WIRRAL for facilitating our first ever live interview!You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredChristel's Instagram/TikTok: @christeldeeofficialwww.christeldee.co.uk For listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Susan Twist and Christel DeeMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pause whatever you were doing, glance warily at the ceiling, and accept that the laws of physics are about to be negotiated as we step once more aboard the indefatigable Nosferatu 2.5 — a vessel so steeped in history that parts of her still insist on calling space “the ether.” With Sophie Aldred at the helm, we continue our stately drift through memory, invention, and those strange, glittering constellations where fandom and imagination collide.Hovering attentively at Sophie’s side is Hobbes, the ship’s clockwork butler and moral arbiter: all polished brass, impeccable diction, and tightly wound suspicion. He attends to the running of the ship with frosty devotion, offering commentary whether requested or not, and maintaining a firm belief that most modern innovations peaked somewhere around 1897. Between them, they negotiate eccentric machinery, recalcitrant systems, and the persistent mystery of “the door that absolutely refuses to explain itself.”This week, the Time Scoop — displaying its usual enthusiasm for chaos — hauls from the timestream Jamie Anderson: producer, archivist, and torchbearer of the legendary Anderson legacy. Son of the incomparable Gerry Anderson, Jamie has dedicated his career to preserving and expanding the worlds of Supermarionation, from Thunderbirds to Space: 1999, while championing new productions that honour the craft, optimism, and meticulous ingenuity that defined his father’s work as well as stepping foot in the Whoniverse as a director for Big Finish productions. Once disentangled from the Scoop’s temporal upholstery (and subjected to Hobbes’ stern enquiries regarding puppets, strings, and existential plausibility), Jamie and Sophie settle onto the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to discuss legacy, creativity, and what it means to grow up with the future permanently under construction.And, of course, no expedition aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 would be complete without a descent into the radiant currents of the Ffantaface — the vast, shimmering reservoir of shared fan memory. Standing sentinel at its threshold is Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish, whose telepathic observations remain razor-sharp despite her legendary inability to finish a thought. Once suitably placated, she grants Sophie access to this week’s guide: Andrew Games, an independent filmmaker from the Wirral whose work springs directly from a lifelong love of science fiction and Doctor Who.Working beyond the studio system and powered largely by imagination, ingenuity, and stubborn persistence, Andrew has carved out a distinctive creative voice through fan-led filmmaking, collaboration, and visual storytelling. Together Sophie and Andrew explore the strange alchemy by which enthusiasm turns into craft, and how stories made with care can echo far beyond their point of origin.You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredJamie's Instagram:@iamjamieandersonJamie's Twitter: @ImJamieAndersonAndrew's Instagram: @andrewgamesofficialFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Jamie Anderson and Andrew GamesMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Get your Gravboots on give Mrs.C a dusting of flakes to encourage basic Ffantaface cooperation, and welcome once again aboard the venerable Nosferatu 2.5 — a ship so antique her instruction manual was engraved on trilobite shells. Guided by our dauntless host, Sophie Aldred, we press on through the slipstreams of time, nostalgia, and the delightfully peculiar archipelagos of fandom.At Sophie’s elbow is Hobbes, the ship’s resident automaton butler: equal parts Victorian splendour, clockwork anxiety, and barbed observation. He polishes, he mutters, he judges, and he remains deeply suspicious of any technology that wasn’t first unveiled at the Great Exhibition — particularly anything Rodent-like! Together, they navigate cosmic oddities, creaking bulkheads, and the eternal enigma of “the door we still can’t open.”This week, the Time Scoop whirs into life with its habitual lack of manners, dredging from the timestream none other than Janet Fielding — forever adored as the formidable, whip-smart Tegan Jovanka from Doctor Who. Once she is successfully liberated from its grabby appendages (and Hobbes has finished his officious questions about entry visas), Sophie and Janet retreat to the Sofa of Infinite Understanding to reminisce, ponder, and relish stories from both studio floor and starry expanse.But no voyage aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 would be complete without a plunge into the luminous depths of the Ffantaface — that colossal, pulsing archive of fan devotion. At its shimmering gateway waits Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish whose telepathic snark is only outdone by her inability to recall what she said five seconds ago. With fins twitching and commentary locked to “forthright,” she grants Sophie safe passage.In this chapter, the Ffantaface presents Nik Moyle: a devoted Doctor Who fan whose passion for the series has helped them triumph over adversity and fuel their creative fire! Together they explore fandom as a force for resilience, imagination, and downright cosmic joy.But the question must be asked: who really has control of the ship’s rodent population?You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredJanet's Instagram/Twitter:@jfmouthonlegsJanet's Bluesky: @janetfieldingJanet's Facebook: Janet Fielding (Mouth on Legs)For listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-*Episodes released early*Two exclusive podcasts every month*Online meet-ups and interactive events*Direct involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Janet Fielding and Nik MoyleMusic, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Secure your harness, give the Patmats a polite kick to keep them moving, and welcome once again aboard the venerable Nosferatu 2.5 — a ship so old, her warranty expired before the last Ice Age. Guided by our ever-intrepid host, Sophie Aldred, we continue our meander through the slipstreams of time, nostalgia, and the more excitable corners of fandom.At Sophie’s elbow (and occasionally in her way) is Hobbes, the ship’s resident automaton butler: part mahogany majesty, part clockwork contraption, part withering commentary. He hums, he polishes, he frets, and he disapproves of nearly everything built after 1894 — especially the Goldfish. Together, they steer the vessel through cosmic peculiarities, temperamental machinery, and the perpetual mystery of “the door we can’t open.”This week, the Time Scoop awakens with its usual lack of courtesy, plucking from the temporal tides none other than Katy Manning, beloved to millions as the irrepressible Jo Grant from Doctor Who. Once she’s safely disentangled from the machinery (and Hobbes has concluded his entirely unnecessary identity checks), Sophie and Katy settle into the Sofa of Informal Enlightenment to reminisce, reflect, and revel in adventures both on and off the screen.But no episode aboard the Nosferatu 2.5 is complete without a descent into the shimmering depths of the Ffantaface — that vast, humming reservoir of collective fan history. At its bubbling threshold awaits Mrs C, the Cockney goldfish whose telepathic commentary is as sharp as her memory is short. With fins aflutter and attitude engaged, she grants Sophie entry to explore the lore.In this instalment, the Ffantaface reveals Gavin Rymill: Dalek expert, graphic designer for the Doctor Who range, and a man who can tell a Mk III travel machine from a Mk V at twenty paces. Together they dive into the nuts, bolts, bumps, and mysteries of Skaro’s finest.But the question must be asked: does Hobbes know more about The Door We Can't Open than he's telling us?You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseySophie's Instagram: @sophie_ace_aldredKaty's Instagram/Twitter/Bluesky:@ManningOfficialGavin's Twitter: @TheMindRobberYou can find out about Gavin's Escape Room by heading to www.westkirbyescaperoom.co,uk or @WestKirbyEscapeRoom on InstagramFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon Community-Episodes released earlyTwo exclusive podcasts every monthOnline meet-ups and interactive eventsDirect involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Katy Manning and Gavin Rymill.Music, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael Livesleywww.michaellivesley.co.ukWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Strap in, adjust your gravity boots, and mind the Patmats! You’ve arrived on the Nosferatu 2.5, the intergalactic pop-culture research vessel captained by Sophie Aldred herself. Your journey through time, space, memory, and fandom begins here.At Sophie’s side is her unwavering (if occasionally exasperated) companion Hobbes: a clockwork butler with the heart of a neutron star, a head full of circuits, and more opinions than his maker strictly intended. Between them, they navigate cosmic curiosities, improbable technology, mysterious doors, and the occasional rogue goldfish.For our maiden voyage, the ship’s unpredictable Time Scoop whirrs to life—summoning none other than Sylvester McCoy, the Seventh Doctor himself. Once the temporal dust settles, Sophie and Sylv settle into the Sofa of Infinite Understanding for a conversation spanning career, chaos, and the curious corners of the Whoniverse.But the adventure doesn’t end there! Every episode journeys into the Ffantaface—the sprawling, shimmering reservoir of collective fan knowledge. Guarding the gateway is Mrs C, Sophie’s Cockney goldfish, who swims in telepathic water from the moon of Helixotrix Minor and ensures no-one approaches the interface uninvited (or unscolded).Together, Sophie and Mrs C dive deep into fandom’s memories, mysteries, and marvels and encounter Big Finish writer extraordinaire Ali Winter!Meanwhile, other questions linger aboard the ship, not least the unnerving presence of The Door We Can’t Open! What lies behind it?Some secrets may have to wait until the Time Scoop is feeling cooperative…You can find us all over your social media.Bluesky/Instagram/X: @aceodyssey63Facebook: Sophie Aldred's Ace OdysseyFor listeners who want even more adventure, you can step inside the Ace Odyssey Patreon CommunityEpisodes released earlyTwo exclusive podcasts every monthOnline meet-ups and interactive eventsDirect involvement in the evolving universe of the showwww.patreon.com/aceodysseySophie Aldred's Ace Odyssey stars Sophie Aldred with James Showers as Hobbes.Special Guests- Sylvester McCoy and Ali Winter.Music, Sound Effects and Sound Design by Michael LivesleyWritten, Produced and Directed by Paul Carmichael.Sophie Aldred’s Ace Odyssey is an Eh? Aye! Production © 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Biscuits...always the issue... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Captain of the Nosferatu 2.5 would like a word... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Engines humming. Circuits dreaming. The universe… listening... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stand by to board the Nosferatu 2.5! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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