Adventure Geek Walking Podcast

Hello, everybody, I’m your host Julia Doherty and a very warm welcome to the last episode 13 in this season of the Adventure Geek Walking Podcast.  As many of you know, we started this podcast as a way of giving something back to our walking club members who decided to continue to support our club through this very difficult time.  Twelve weeks on and we are now out walking again which is brilliant, albeit in smaller groups. As mentioned, this is the last episode for this season of the podcast.  I am setting off to walk the 89 miles of the Jurassic Way on Saturday 4th July, from Stamford in Lincolnshire, through Northants and ending up in Banbury.  Then our next long-distance hike is along Hadrians Wall in September, followed by the Camino de Santiago through the Pyrenees mountains in Spain in October.  As you can imagine, with planning and training for these adventures, along with running a busy walking club, my time is quite limited.  If we decide to launch season two, then this will be when I return from the Camino.  Watch this space.   Onto the show! This is a show for those who love everything to do with the outdoors, backpacking, hiking and of course walking. Hopefully, we have something for everyone in each episode. So without further ado, let me explain the contents of this week's show.   We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound” - sorry, but it is a weird one again this week!   Segment two continues with the adventures of Janet & John’s latest antics.  As one adventure comes to an end, another adventure is about to begin!   We have no interview this week, so segment three is the education slot.  This week I will share with you my top tips to lighten your load when on a long distance backpacking trip.   We then end the show with Derek & Doreen.  This week Doreen is feeling fruity and discovers the joy of swinging, much to Dereks delight.   So, without further ado, let’s get this show on the road, and see if you can guess this week’s soundbite.  I did promise a bit of a clue.  So, Google told me that these animals have four stomachs!   PLAY SOUND   I am not sure how many people will get that one?  Well, you might if you live in North America or Eatern Asia!  As always, the answer to the soundbite will be revealed at the end of the podcast along with some facts about this creature.  Right, now over to shiny shoes for the last episode of this season of Janet & John.  Over to you John!   SWOOSH   PLAY JANET & JOHN’S EPISODE   I feel a bit sad knowing that we won’t be hearing from Janet and John for a little while.  John Pettinger is the author and narrator of this series and he has been an absolute pleasure to work with.   Thanks John, for everything that you have put into this show.  I hope that you continue to get more content ideas as you join us on our walks so that we can revisit the brother and sister duo in the future.     PING   Right, time for this week’s education slot.   As I am heading off to backpack the Jurassic Way on Saturday, I thought I would share with you some of my top tips for lightning your load when on a long distance hike.   I will never forget seeing a little Korean lady on the Camino last year who carried the biggest rucksack you have ever seen!  As a golden rule, for a non-camping style hike then you really want to keep to under 10% of your body weight on your back.  If you rucksack is too heavy then with a matter of days your will start to have problems with your lower back, hips and shoulders.  In addition to this, you will also increase the risk of painful blisters and shin splints, which are pure evil when you are on an adventure.   My top tips:-   #1 - Wash & go.  Yep, only carry one set of clothing, and wear one set of clothing.  Then wash your clothes as you go.  Because you are going away for a 2 week walking holiday, you only need two pairs of undies, not 14!   #2- If you are looking at camping along the way, then look for a tent that uses walking poles as the frame rather than taking an additional set of poles.  I use the Lanshan 2 person tent and it weighs less than 2lbs in weight.   #3 - Water is probably the heaviest thing you will carry on a hike.  If you know that you will be passing streams, lakes and rivers, then pack a water filter such as the Sawyer Squeeze or Be Free water filter and fill up as you go.   #4 - If you are on the Camino or a similar sort of trip then take something like a Lush Shampoo Bar.  This will wash your clothes, body and hair and one bar will last about a month.  This saves weight rather than packing separate containers.   #5 - Think about your backpack.  I started off with an Osprey 65L pack, and I filled a 65L pack.  I now walk with a much lighter rucksack, the Salomon Out Week 38L, which means I don’t have as much room to put stuff.  A smaller and lighter pack forces you to think about what you are going to take with you.   In all honesty, I could easily talk about this topic for a good hour or so as I have learnt so much over the last few year.  If you have any questions about how to lighten your pack, then simply message me on the Facebook page, or email julia@adventuregeek.co.uk - i’m happy to help.   PING    Before we go into our finale with “Derek & Doreen” I would like to reveal the soundbite answer from the beginning of the show.  For those of you who guessed an Elk, you would be right!   Elk live 20 years or more in captivity but average 10 to 13 years in the wild.   Only the males have antlers, which start growing in the spring and are shed each winter. The largest antlers may be 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) long and weigh 18 kilograms (40 pounds).   Elk are social animals who live in same-sex herds of 10 to 20 individuals         PING   We are going to end the podcast Derek and Doreen’s latest adventure as venture off to once again see Michael at Cotswold Outdoors…    PLAY DEREK & DOREEN EPISODE 1   Thanks Nigel, how did you do that without laughing?  I was in fits!  By the way, I popped into Cotswold Outdoors last weekend and bumped into Michael, but I didn’t have the heart to tell him that he was a superstar on our podcast!  Nigel, I think everyone is in love with Derek & Doreen.  Those of you who are listeners and part of the AG club will recognise some of the traits of these two individuals - I will say no more!  Nigel, I know how much work has been put into these episodes each week and I can’t thank you enough.  It was also your idea to do the podcast in the first place and what a brilliant idea it was.  Cheers mate!   As I draw the podcast to a close, I would like to leave you with this final thought.   Remember that you don’t need to take any notes as we do all that for you. Links to anything that has been mentioned in today’s show can be found at www.adventuregeek.co.uk/podcastEP13     All that leaves me to say is Get Outside, Get Inspired, Now Go Take A Hike when you can.  In the meantime, be safe.       See you next week!

As many of you know, we started this podcast as a way of giving something back to our walking club members who decided to continue to support our club through this very difficult time.  Twelve weeks on and we are now out walking again, albeit in smaller groups.  Next week’s podcast will be the last one in this season (yes, we may ignite it again at a later date) but I just wanted to say a huge thank you, not just to the guests who have appeared on the show, but a massive thanks to Nigel Banister, whose idea it was to produce a postcast in the first place. Nigel had the idea of Janet & John, which was inspired from Terry Wogan and from this, new characters were born.  We love both Janet & John and Derek & Doreen.    I can’t see this being the end, because we really want to know what happens to all four characters - it’s like a mini soap opera.  But for now we will be taking a short break.  Love you guys!   Onto the show! This is a show for those who love everything to do with the outdoors, backpacking, hiking and of course walking. Hopefully, we have something for everyone in each episode. So without further ado, let me explain the contents of this week's show.   We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”. We have another difficult sound this week, with a weird clue!  Those of you who lived through the ’80s may get it! Segment two continues with the adventures of Janet & John’s latest antics and this week John is giving out stile tips! But what sort of stile? Segment number three is an interview with husband and wife team Karen & Colin Roberts.  They took a year out from their busy lives and travelled the world! The fourth segment is an education slot. This week I will be telling you about three of my favourite YouTubers to watch for backpacking and hiking. We then end the show with Derek & Doreen who spot a UFO in Northamptonshire!   So, without further ado, let’s get this show on the road, and see if you can guess this week’s soundbite.  I did promise a bit of a clue.  Rather than give you some facts, all I will say is “hard on the outside soft on the inside!” - Harry Enfield!   LINKS AS PROMISED:  1. Darwin on the Trail - click here 2. Paul Messner - click here 3. Dixie / Homemade Wunderlust - click here    See you next week! 

SUMMARY OF THIS WEEK'S SHOW:- Be yourself and people will like you.   Jeff Kinny - From A Diary of a Wimpy Kid This week's Podcast in a Nutshell:- This week's podcast in a nutshell:- #1 - We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”. For those of you who have mentioned that these sounds are difficult to identify, I have an easy one for you this week.  #2 - Segment two continues with the adventures of Janet & John’s latest antics.  This week, take a trip down memory lane! #3 - Segment number three is an interview with  Emily Wright. Emily is an ultra hiker.  If hearing about blisters makes you squeamish, then it may be best to skip this week’s interview!  #4 - The fourth segment is an education slot about my favourite walking magazines. (links below) #5 - We then end the show with Derek & Doreen’s as they continue their shopping adventures (lots of giggles in this one). LINKS:  #1 - Country Walking Magazine If you are walking the #walk1000miles challenge then you will already know about my favourite magazine called Country Walking. Country Walking is Britain's bestselling walking magazine.  Whether it's a trip to the Lake District or a simple wander in your local woods, Country Walking helps you discover Britain on foot. #2 - The Great Outdoors Magazine The Great Outdoors Magazine was created by hillwalkers for hillwakers, The Great Outdoors Magazine (or the TGO as it is fondly known) has been providing outdoor enthusiasts with ideas, inspiration and the best gear reviews in the industry for 37 years. Published every four weeks, Britain’s original outdoor magazine is packed full of stunning photography, top class writing and brilliant walking and backpacking routes, along with authoritative gear reviews from the country’s most experienced team of testers and essential skills advice from highly qualified outdoor instructors. #3 - BBC Countryfile Magazine Subscription Immerse yourself in the glories of the great British countryside. There is so much to see, celebrate and discover in the British countryside, but where do you start? How about with a BBC Countryfile magazine subscription? Each issue is brimming with fresh and interesting ideas for exploring our beautiful landscape and heritage, watching wildlife and enjoying great local food. You don't have to go far and wide to get a taste of it all. Subscribe today and let it come straight to your door. Benefits include: Great savings on the UK shop price Delivery to your door in recyclable paper wrapping Monthly reader photo competition Stunning wildlife photography Regular special offers for readers See you next week. Remember to Get Outside, Get Inspired and Go Take A Hike!

This week's podcast in a nutshell:- #1 - We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”. This week we have one of the cutest animals on the planet, that can also catch chlamydia! #2 - Segment two continues with the adventures of Janet & John’s latest antics.  This week it is all downhill for Janet & John! #3 - Segment number three is an interview with Steve Hunt. If you are interested in exploring places to hike in the UK then this is the interview for you. #4 - The fourth segment is an education slot. This week I will be telling you about one of my favourite adventure authors. #5 - We then end the show with Derek & Doreen’s.  This week Derek makes a list of shopping needs, but Doreen is not so sure!   LINKS:  The amazing adventure author I mentioned in the podcast was Keith Foskett.  Visit his website at www.keithfoskett.com when you will find all of his books listed. 

PODCAST IN A NUTSHELL #1 - We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”.  This week we have one of the most dangerous animals that roam this planet! #2 - Segment two continues with the adventures of Janet & John’s latest antics.  This week the brother and sister duo enjoy some riparian entertainment. #3 - Segment number three is an interview with Neil Sinclair.  If you have ever fancied exploring New Zealand, especially the Abel Tasman track then this is the podcast for you. #4 - The fourth segment is an education slot. This week I am going to tell you the good, the bad and the ugly about walking socks. #5 - We then end the show with Derek & Doreen’s latest antics as they discover that sometimes torches don’t always help us to see in the dark.   LINKS AS PROMISED:  1. Find out more about the Abel Tasman Trail here.  2. Hiking socks links Bridgedale Ladies ultralight hiking socks – https://amzn.to/2Igjvkj   Xsocks runners socks – https://amzn.to/32QkfpY   Hilly Compression socks – https://amzn.to/2IkNfgc   Otter waterproof socks – https://amzn.to/2VIu8V7 Seal Skin Waterproof socks – https://amzn.to/3ar7rc3   Coolmax Liner socks – https://amzn.to/2uXGgqs   Bamboo socks – https://amzn.to/2uSrRvv Darn Tough socks - https://amzn.to/2XYjVn6 

This week's episode in a nutshell. Soundbite is a strange bird who can change colour in different seasons More adventures from Janet & John An interview with Kathryn Ozlati about the wonderful country of Iran Education slot showcases three adventure films to watch.  We end the show this week with a Hellidon walk with Derek & Doreen.  Film I mentioned are Wild - with Reece Witherspoon on Netflix (here) A Walk in the Woods - by Bill Bryson, starring Robert Redford - on Amazon  The Way - Martin Sheen - a tale of the Camino (Amazon)

This week's Podcast in a Nutshell:- Soundbite - this animal is born with white spots that vanish within 12 months.  Derek & Doreen - The Braunston Walk.  Doreen likes the various stiles and a midway light breakfast makes it all worthwhile. An interview with Lynne Rose.  Lynne tells us all about the Great Wall of China trip that she completed in 2019. Education slot. This week I am going to talk to you about podcasts.  The best podcast player for your phone, along with some other outdoor podcasts that may be of interest to you. We then end the show with Janet & John’s latest antics. Piece Of Cake. Janet and John meet a new dog and climb a Northampton mountain.   LINKS AS PROMISED:  Lynne Rose's walking club in Sailsbury - Pure Walking Club  Stars Appeal Hospital Charity - http://www.starsappeal.org/ Braunston Walk that Derek & Doreen completed: Download here.  Overcast Podcast Player - https://overcast.fm/ Podcasts I mentioned (all available on iOS/Android/Spotify) Alastair Humphreys - Living Adventurously.  My Camino - the Podcast - Dan Mullins: Here One Year No Beer - love this podcast! Here The Outdoors Station - especially if you like gear!  Here  See you next week.   

This week's episode in a nutshell: Guess the sound - clue: This week's bird will swallow their prey whole then barf up the carcass! Derek & Doreen go shopping for lycra.  Interview with Alison Snelling, who talks about Mount Everest trip, sailing and personal location beacons.  Education slot is a new app called WikiCamp - similar to AirBNB but for camping.  Janet & John spot a fat cow and we are all left wondering what did John pull out of the sweet bag? Links: RescueMe Personal Location Beacon - https://amzn.to/35XqXvH Wiki Camps app - https://wikicamps.co.uk/ See you next week! 

My grandmother started walking five miles a day when she was sixty. She’s ninety-seven now, and we don’t know where the heck she is. -Ellen DeGeneres Hello, everybody, my name is Julia Doherty and a very warm welcome to episode 5 of the Adventure Geek Walking Club Podcast.  IN A NUTSHELL:  Guess the sound - this week our animal has amazing eyesight and can see up to 3 miles!  Derek & Doreen go shopping.  It's time to ditch the duffle coat. An interview with Pat Hipkiss.  If you have dreamed about walking the Inca Trail in Peru / Machu Picchu then this interview will not disappoint. Education slot: This week I chat about “leave no trace” principles.  Most people think this means “don’t litter”, but in fact, it means so much more than that. We then end the show with Janet & John’s latest antics.  I love John’s optimism when they got lost and I’m digging the outfit this week!  Remember that you don’t need to take any notes as we do all that for you. Links and a full transcript of the show can be found at www.adventuregeek.co.uk/podcastEP5      See you next week!

There's no place like home - 1939, The Wizard of Oz Show summary Guess the sound - this animal does not sleep.  Derek & Doreen enjoy crumpets and a bit of passion.. cake!  Mental health and mindfulness during Covid19 pandemic interview with Mark Vincent.  Education slot - you've got to read this adventure/travel book!  Janet & John - John hides his sherbet lemons!  Sound revealed and closing with a quote of the day.  _________________________________________________________________________ SCRIPT / TRANSCRIPTION OF THE SHOW. Hello everybody and a very warm welcome to episode 4 of the Adventure Geek Walking Club Podcast.  This is a show for those who love everything to do with the outdoors, backpacking and hiking. Hopefully, we have something for everyone in each episode. So without further ado, let me explain the contents of this week's show. We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”.  This will be the sound of an animal, bird, or something to do with the outdoors.  I will always give you a bit of a clue before the sound and then reveal the answer and a few fun facts about the animal at the end of the show. The second segment continues with the adventures of Derek & Doreen.  Today they experience the Heart of the Shires walk (not the 3 Shires Hospital walk!), and I am pleased to say that Julia got the postcode right this time! Segment number three is an interview with Mark Vincent who talks about the Corona Virus and the impact the current situation can have on our mental health. The fourth segment is an education slot. This week I will reveal one of my favourite travel authors.  We then end the show with Janet & John’s latest antics. This week we learn all about stiles and where to not to hide your sweets when you have no pockets! #1 - GUESS THE SOUND So, without further ado, let’s get this show on the road, and see if you can guess this week’s soundbite.  I did promise a bit of a clue, so I googled “unknown facts about this animal”.  Google told me that these animals do not sleep in the same way that we do and the reason for this is that when they sleep they stop breathing! Here’s the sound…. PLAY SOUND The answer to the soundbite will be revealed at the end of the podcast.  #2 - DEREK AND DOREEN EXPLORE THE HEART OF THE SHIRES Over to Nigel for this week’s episode of Derek & Doreen.  SWOOSH PLAY DERICK & DOREEN EPISODE 2 Thanks, Nigel.  You can’t beat a hot crumpet smothered in butter after a long hard walk…. said, Julia! I’m looking forward to next week’s episode where Derek & Doreen go shopping! #3 - INTERVIEW WITH MARK VINCENT I am now going to transition over to this week’s interview with Mark Vincent.  If you know someone who is struggling during these difficult times then this will be a good episode to listen to.  I personally grabbed a few golden nuggets to help me deal with my own social isolation, so I believe there is something in this interview for everyone. SWOOSH PLAY INTERVIEW Thanks for your time today Mark, you were awesome.  For our listeners, all the resources that we mentioned in the interview is available in the podcast show notes.  If you are on Instagram then check out Matt Haig https://www.instagram.com/mattzhaig/ Remember the only things we need to get through this pandemic, in the words of Matt Haig is food, health, home and each other…. the rest can wait. Terry Waite summary Five top tips for coping with isolation from Terry Waite who spent 1,763 days in captivity in Beirut from 1986 to 1991 #1 Keep in contact with others via digital and other means, while staying safe and remaining physically apart. #2 Keep yourself well: don’t slob around all day in pyjamas and a dressing gown! #3 Keep up a routine: get up at a certain time, eat regular meals. #4 Take exercise: dust off the exercise bike, do some online exercise or go for a walk. #5 Take this time of restriction as an opportunity: do some of those things you’ve been meaning to do for years, such as reading that book that’s been on your shelves for years! “In solitude, we are in fact together, so keep hope alive and don’t allow despair to destroy a difficult but potentially creative period of your life.” Julia Samual - women’s hour - This too shall pass (website here) Sending a postcard/flowers - Touchnote app Mindfulness, NHS England and lots of resources.  7/11 breathing technique - download the PDF here.  BorrowBox Library Audiobook App - download here.  5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing by the NHS - resource here Next week we have Pat Hipkiss talking about Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail! PING #4 - EDUCATION SLOT Right, time for this week’s education slot.  This week I wanted to share with you a very talented author who is from Northampton.  George Mahood’s style of writing is hugely entertaining.  His first book called Free Country is a true story about George and his best mate Ben who decided to cycle from Lands End to John O Groats without a single penny, oh… and without any bikes!  They started at the famous information centre at Lands End in just their Union Jack boxer shorts, and off they went!  They relied on the generosity of the general public to help with food, shelter and clothing and they also managed to get bikes (George had a kids racer which was way to small for him) from a rubbish dump in Cornwall.  If you want a lighthearted read about an adventure of a lifetime then check out George’s website www.georgemahood.com - I have read all of his books and can’t put them down.  PING  #5 - SOUNDBITE ANSWER Before we go into our finale with “Janet & John go walking” I would like to reveal the soundbite answer from the beginning of the show.  For those of you who guessed a whale, you would be right!  Whales do not sleep, but a few other facts include:- Whale "vomit" is used in perfumes. The story of Moby Dick is real. Accumulated ear wax can tell a whale's age PING #6 - JANET AND JOHN - CRUSHED SHERBET LEMONS!  We are going to end the podcast with the amazingly talented Shiny Shoes as he reads the lates Janet and John adventures.  Over to you John.  PLAY JANET & JOHN EPISODE 1 Thanks, John - we all want to know if John actually ate his crushed sherbet lemons? It’s lovely to be introduced to new characters, and I think we can all relate to the muddy puddles scenario - the bit about the ferry had me in stitches! As I draw the podcast to a close, I would like to leave you with this final thought from the 1939 film, The Wizzard of Oz. “There's no place like home.” We can go on lots of adventures, but at the end of the day, it is always lovely to get home and snuggle up in your own bed. See you next week!

“The Earth has music for those who listen.” - William Shakespeare SUMMARY OF EPISODE 3 Guess the sound - this animal eats its own poop! Derek & Doreen go on their first hike!  An interview with Rachel Hinds who explains how she is keeping active during the lockdown (genius!).  Education slot is an app that works in conjunction with the OS Maps app.  Janet & John's episode is a bit of a shocker!  Hello everybody and a very warm welcome to episode 3 of the Adventure Geek Walking Club Podcast.  This is a show for those who love everything to do with the outdoors, backpacking and hiking. Hopefully, we have something for everyone in each episode. So without further ado, let me explain the contents of this week's show. We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”.  This will be a sound of an animal, bird, or something to do with the outdoors.  I will always give you a bit of a clue, but the answer will be revealed at the end of the show. The second segment continues with the adventures of Derek & Doreen. This week the pair are off on their first proper walk…. The Towcester Hulcote Walk! Segment number three is an interview with Rachel Hinds, who has a genius way of keeping active during the lockdown period. The fourth segment is an education slot. This week I am sharing a magical app, which works in conjunction with the OS Maps app. We then end the show with Janet & John’s latest antics.  Let’s just say that this week’s episode is a bit of a shocker!  So, without further ado, let’s get this show on the road, and see if you can guess this week’s soundbite.  I did promise a bit of a clue, so I googled “unknown facts about this animal”.  Google told me that this animal eats its own poop!  Here’s the sound…. PLAY SOUND The answer to the soundbite will be revealed at the end of the podcast.  Over to Nigel for this week’s episode of Derek & Doreen.  SWOOSH PLAY DERICK & DOREEN EPISODE 2 Thanks, Nigel. If you have been on an Adventure Geek walk then you can probably relate to some of these tales. Please let me know if you also started laughing at the same point I did!  Nigel, we need to keep the giggles in as they are hilarious! I am now going to transition over to this week’s interview with Rachel Hinds who talks about her new little hobby which involves climbing a few mountains!    SWOOSH PLAY INTERVIEW Thanks for your time today Rachel, you were awesome.  For our listeners, you can download the spreadsheet template that Rachel has created as well as reading the show notes for this episode over at www.adventuregeek.co.uk/PodcastEP3 STAIRS TRACKER SPREADSHEET CAN BE FOUND HERE PING Right, time for this week’s education slot.  For those of you who are using the OS Maps app, don’t you sometimes find it frustrating that you need to pinch and zoom before you find that little red arrow to show you where you are? Today’s app, called OS Locate is brilliant and I use it all the time. Used alongside your Ordnance Survey map, OS Locate is a fast and highly accurate means of pinpointing your exact location on the map, anywhere in Great Britain. If you have lost your bearings or simply would like a little reassurance, OS Locate is the ideal companion for all enthusiasts of the great outdoors.  The app not only displays your co-ordinates, but there is a little icon on the right hand side for OS Maps.  Press that and then your OS Maps app is launched to your exact location.  No more pinching, scrolling and zooming to try to figure out where you are - it opens up at exactly the right place. PING  Before we go into our finale with “Janet & John go walking” I would like to reveal the soundbite answer from the beginning of the show.  For those of you who guessed a rabbit, you would be right! And yes, a rabbit does it eats own poop, they can’t vomit, their vision nearly covers 360 degrees and their teeth never stop growing! PING We are going to end the podcast with the amazingly talented Shiny Shoes as he reads the lates Janet and John adventures.  Over to you John.  PLAY JANET & JOHN EPISODE 1 Thanks, John - everybody left, dog poo alert!  and sweets…. the perfect Adventure Geek walk! As I draw the podcast to a close, I would like to leave you with this final thought from William Shakespeare “The Earth has music for those who listen.” - William Shakespeare Remember that you don’t need to take any notes as we do all that for you. Links to anything that has been mentioned in today’s show can be found at www.adventuregeek.co.uk/podcastep3 See you next week!

SUMMARY OF THIS WEEK'S SHOW:- “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light” - JK Rowling Soundbite - an animal found in warmer climates Derek & Doreen experience their first walking induction and round-robin.  Interview with Sue Ferrie who talks about walks in the UK.  Education slot - a Film about an 83-year-old lady called Edie who climbs a mountain in Scotland.  Janet & John - this week they learn a new word... goo!  TRANSCRIPT OF THE SHOW Hello everybody and a very warm welcome to episode 2 of the Adventure Geek Podcast.  This is a show for those who love everything to do with the outdoors, backpacking and hiking. Hopefully, we have something for everyone in each episode. Let me explain the segments of the show. We always start the podcast with a bit of a quiz in the form of “guess the sound”.  This will be the sound of an animal, bird, or something to do with the outdoors.  I will give you a bit of a clue, but the answer will be revealed at the end of the show. The second segment continues with the adventures of Derek & Doreen and they experience their first Adventure Geek induction and round-robin! Each episode I interview someone who has something to share about the outdoors.  Perhaps it’s a trail they have walked, an outdoors hobby or knowledge about wildlife, plants, or geology. If you know someone who would like to be interviewed then please message me at julia@adventuregeek.co.uk   This week we have Sue Ferrie, who shares with us stories of various adventures, including how her family climbed the Miners track up Snowdon when her son had two broken arms! The fourth segment will be the education slot. This may be an app, a gadget, or a resource to share with you.  Something related to the outdoors. We then end the show with Janet & John.  This week the pair are introduced to the group, they realise who Julia’s henchman is, and learn a new word… goo! So, without further ado, let’s get this show on the road, and see if you can guess this week’s soundbite.  I did promise a bit of a clue, so this animal is not a native English animal, and is often found in warmer climates. PLAY SOUND.  The answer to the soundbite will be revealed at the end of the podcast.  Over to Nigel for this week’s episode of Derek & Doreen.  SWOOSH PLAY DERICK & DOREEN EPISODE 2 Thanks, Nigel. If you have been on an Adventure Geek walk then you can probably relate to some of these tales.  I think Nigel should be conducting all new starter briefings from now on as his does it so well! I am now going to transition over to this week’s interview with  Sue Ferrie. Sue is an experienced walker and her joy out the outdoors shines through in this little chat.    SWOOSH PLAY INTERVIEW Thanks for your time Sue, it is very much appreciated.  We will certainly add your East Northants walk to our collection once this lockdown is all done and dusted. As we are allowed out to play for our daily dose of exercise, I thought I would share with you some ideas each week to keep you (and your kids) occupied whilst out and about.  As we can’t get outside, I thought I would share a good film to watch that is available on Amazon Prime (link in the show notes) called Edie.  It is a thoroughly motivating story of an 83-year-old lady who has not given up on life, even though her daughter thinks she should be in a retirement home.  Soon after her controlling husband passes away she decides to rekindle her childhood memories and sets out to climb a mountain in Scotland.  This is such a lovely film and has something for everyone.  It is a fantastic storyline, but the scenery is amazing, and it also showed how far backpacking gear has improved in the last 50 or so years! PING Before we go into our finale with “Janet & John go walking” I would like to reveal the soundbite answer from the beginning of the show.  For those of you who guessed a camel, you would be right! We are going to end the podcast with the amazingly talented Shiny Shoes as he reads the lates Janet and John adventures.  Over to you John.  PLAY JANET & JOHN EPISODE 1 Thanks John - I look forward to these each week.  As I draw the podcast to a close, I would like to leave you with this final thought from the famous author JK Rowling. “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light”

This is the very first episode of the AG Walking Club Podcast.  Segments and notes include:- Can you identify the wildlife sound? An interview with Jemma Jones Hayes, who talks to us about Munzee Hunting.   Derek & Doreen join the Adventure Geek Walking Club Education slot this week is about the app called Alltrails.com  Finale where we get to meet two very unique characters called Janet & John.  Think "carry on camping" and you have got the idea!     

The video version of this interview can be viewed on YouTube - where you will see images and photos that accompany the show.  An in-depth talk and discussion about the Camino Frances with Anita Oudega who walked in July 2018. Anita is very fit and is a keen backpacker, howeve,r she still suffered from blisters! There is lots of advice for newbie pilgrims in this week's episode.

This week I speak with the veteran pilgrim, Jackie Jarvis. Jackie has walked the Camino numerous times (Norte, Frances and Portugal routes) and yet she is still learning lessons from this amazing journey! Find out the challenges that Jackie had to overcome as well as her reasons for continuing to go back to the Camino.

In this week's episode, we hear from Norman Stephens, a teacher from California who had a very different Camino to most. Today's show includes lots of gear tips and gadget advice!

A powerful interview with Luca from Italy who walked the Camino Frances in July 2018. He shares lots of tips and advice for newbie pilgrims and talks about the mistakes that he learned along the way. Luca's life changed when he returned back to Italy and he encourages others to walk the Camino Pilgrimage across Spain - it changed his life!

Listen to Sue's story as she explains how she was removed from a plane and forced to walk the Camino - it was the best thing that ever happened to her! 

 In this episode, Julia from Adventure Geek interviews Milena from Norway.  The key takeaway from this episode is that it is ok to go slow. If you prefer to watch the video version, please click play below.  INTERVIEW NOTES1.25  Julia introduces Milena and also talks about Abel - slow and steady.2.18 How did you hear about the Camino?  Milena's parents are Camino veterans, so it has been on her agenda for a while.  Milena needed a holiday, she needed to be alone and her dad said: "Why not go on the Camino?"3.48   What routes did you do?  The first time was 170km, from St Jean to Logrono in 2016.  She then went back in 2016 from Logrono to Castrojeriz.4.59 - Where are you from?  Norway.  Getting to St Jean was not easy.  It was a flight to Paris then a train to another city, then another train to St Jean.6.40 - Do you speak Spanish? No, but people thought I did.7.20 - When did you walk? The first time was the end of May and the second time was the beginning of August.  The weather is unpredictable but it really does not matter when you go, just do it when it fits your own schedule.8:00 - Was the Camino everything you thought it would be?  Milena had not trained and was living in a large body.  She was not really prepared as much as she should have been.  On the first day, she took a shuttle to the top of the mountain rather than worrying about the heavy climb up the Pyrenees for €10.  She then walked down into Roncesvalles.12:22 - Milena tells the story of her connection with Abel a 79-year-old guy from Texas.  Abel had walked many Camino's and is now 81 years old and still walking the Camino.  The story of the lemon biscuits will put a lump in your throat.14:00 - It is important to march to the beat of your own drum.  Milena talks about the peace that walking gives her.  She hated trying to catch up with people all the time.  Once she realised that she could walk her own walk at her pace then she loved the walk.  It is just as hard for people to walk faster or people to walk slower - walk at your pace.17:20 - We talk about the people and how the connections become very special.  Milena tells an amazing story about Karen and the cows over the Pyrenees.  (Please listen to this as the lessons are hugely valuable).21:23 - Would you recommend walking sticks?  Oh yes!  Especially on the downhills?23:11 - Are you a spiritual or a religious journey? - No, I am more on a "self-journey".   I learned that it is ok to put myself first.  The Camino gave me room to breathe.24:23 - Was it scary doing this on your own?  Yes! Milena did all of this on her own.  The 2nd year she was fitter, but she was worried that she perhaps would not meet new people.  She brought less stuff the 2nd time around.  The 2nd time was also amazing.  It was totally different.  Once again Milena met some amazing people that she feels close to.  Saying goodbye to people was the hardest part and she spent lots of time crying.31:10 - What guidebook did you use? The John Brierly Guide Book was invaluable.  Milena enjoyed this book as it was good bedtime reading.32:58 - QUICK FIRE ROUND.What was the weight of your pack? 8kg for the first one then 7kg on the 2nd trip.Did you take anything that you never used?  Technical clothes didn't work for me.  I used wool clothes the send time.What was your luxury item?  I didn't have any.  I was told to use a baby nappy cream on my feet and it worked brilliantly.  Milena did not get any blisters (except on her hands from the poles).Would you say a sleep sheet or sleeping bag?  Sleep sheet only.  Milena had a merino wool sleeping outfit that kept her nice and warm.38:14 - Did your Camino start when you got home?  Not really, I have been on a life journey for a while and the Camino was just a part of it.39:55 - Where has your passion come from?  Finally realising that it was ok to be slow was a revelation for me.  The Camino gave me the spark that I needed. It's ok to be slow.41:48 - Milena says she now knows that it is just enough to just be her.  (I love this!).MILENA'S QUOTE:"To be first" by Gunnar RoalkvamTo be firstThere is no point in being first,to arrive alone.It won’t become fun before the rest of us arrive, anyway.Take it easy,hold my hand,and we’ll take it step by step.One time you’ll come first,be the one that thinks furthest.And before we know it,The last one’s got it right.It is possible to go ahead,without arriving first,alone.   

Erik Op Ten Berg is a master of creativity and was a true inspiration on the Camino Frances Route in 2016.  He has now walked the Camino on a number of occasions and each journey has been a new experience.   Erik was the inspiration for this podcast, so I am delighted that he was my first guest.  Each podcast is published every Friday.