Stirring it up with Andi and Miquita Oliver

In this poignant final episode, Andi and Miquita explore the depths - both literal and metaphorical - of Scotland's most famous loch. At Great Glen Distillery, Scotland's smallest gin maker, they discover how Loch Ness water transforms into award-winning spirits using innovative botanical combinations. Their journey takes an intriguing turn as they meet Adrian Shine, the renowned Loch Ness expert and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, who shares fascinating insights about the intersection of possibility and probability in the famous waters.As mother and daughter embark on a Jacobite Cruise across Loch Ness, passing the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, they reflect on their transformative Scottish odyssey. In an emotional conclusion, they contemplate the power of heritage, storytelling, and the bonds that connect us to places and people. Their final moments by the loch, complete with a traditional blessing, mark not just the end of their Highland journey, but Miquita's awakening to her Scottish identity and the beginning of a new chapter in both their lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Inverness, Andi and Miquita's Scottish journey takes an intimate turn as they immerse themselves in tradition with a modern twist. Their day begins with acclaimed fashion designer Siobhan Mackenzie, whose innovative approach to traditional Scottish textiles is revolutionising fashion. In this meeting, ancient craft meets contemporary design, culminating in a touching moment when Miquita receives a specially crafted piece that bridges past and present.The journey deepens at The Malt Room, where whisky experts Jo from Tomatin and bar manager John guide them through the complexities of Scottish whisky. But it's at McGregors Bar where the day reaches its emotional peak - singer and storyteller Davy Holt weaves Miquita's own Scottish ancestry into his performance, creating an unforgettable afternoon of music, stories, and connection over traditional food and drams. As Miquita discovers her Highland roots, the journey becomes more than exploration - it becomes a homecoming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita's Aberdeenshire journey begins at The Wee Scottish Cider Company, where they meet Christian Stolte, a former oil industry worker turned master cider maker. In his converted steading, Christian reveals the intricate champagne method behind his award-winning Seidear cider, transforming apples from Scottish castle gardens through a meticulous two-year process that rivals traditional champagne production.The adventure continues as they join Tara Spiers and her River Dee Damsels, a community breaking new ground in the traditionally male-dominated world of fly fishing. After experiencing the meditative rhythm of casting in the historic River Dee, they witness nature's raw power at the Falls of Feugh, watching Atlantic salmon leap upstream. Their day concludes with a serendipitous discovery - Kenyan-born chef John Chomba's restaurant, where Scottish ingredients meet French technique in an unexpected celebration of Aberdeenshire's diverse food culture.Special thanks to VisitAberdeenshire (visitabdn.com) for their assistance in arranging access to these special locations and people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ndi and Miquita Scottish odyssey takes an unexpected turn as they delve into the world of foraging in Alford with expert Leanne Townsend (Wild Food Stories). This episode uncovers the hidden treasures of Aberdeenshire's landscape, from chanterelles to hogweed, revealing how nature's bounty can transform both plate and perspective. Leanne's passion for wild food ignites a newfound appreciation in Andi, challenging her preconceptions about foraging. Meanwhile, Miquita discovers how this ancient practice can reframe her relationship with her urban surroundings. Their journey culminates in a heartwarming picnic that's more than just a meal – it's a celebration of connection, memory, and the legacy of loved ones. Through mushroom-laden paths and flower-strewn meadows, this episode explores how foraging can be a bridge between past and present, people and nature. It's a poignant reminder of the nourishment we can find when we slow down and savour the world around us.Special thanks to VisitAberdeenshire (visitabdn.com) for their assistance in arranging access to these special locations and people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita Oliver's journey straddles the urban-rural divide of Northeast Scotland. In Aberdeenshire, they visit Grace Noble and her daughter Beth at Aberdeenshire Highland Beef, exploring sustainable cattle farming and Scotland's agricultural heritage. This encounter with the region's pastoral traditions prompts Miquita to reflect deeply on her own mixed Caribbean and Scottish heritage during a solitary walk through the farm's fields.The expedition then shifts back to Aberdeen's city centre, where Andi meets poet Mae Diansangu at the Aberdeen Pavilion. Their conversation delves into the Doric dialect, showcasing how this distinctive form of Scots finds new expression through contemporary poetry.Special thanks to VisitAberdeenshire (visitabdn.com) for their assistance in arranging access to these special locations and people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita’s Scottish journey washes ashore in Aberdeen, where they discover a city balancing urban sophistication with rugged coastal charm. Their first port of call is Mara, where Ross and Carolina Cochrane are redefining local fare. Here, they savour a parade of dishes that sing with Scottish produce and Italian flair, challenging notions of traditional Scottish cuisine.The duo then ascends to Greyhope Bay, where Dr Fiona McIntyre's grassroots project has breathed new life into a historic defence battery. This community-driven initiative offers more than panoramic views of the North Sea; it's a testament to Aberdeen's commitment to sustainable development and shared heritage.From city centre to seafront, this episode unveils Aberdeen's multifaceted personality. Andi and Miquita's explorations reveal a place where innovation and tradition intertwine, and where the community's voice shapes the narrative. Their experiences at Mara and Greyhope Bay showcase a city confidently charting its course between honouring its past and embracing a promising future.Special thanks to VisitAberdeenshire (visitabdn.com) for their assistance in arranging access to these special locations and people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On their final day exploring Glasgow, Andi and Miquita dive into two contrasting yet equally passionate worlds. They kick off at Glasgow City FC, Scotland's most successful women's football team, discussing the evolving landscape of women's sports and the team's unique independent status. The visit offers insights into the professional lives of these dedicated athletes and the psychological aspects of their training.The day concludes at GaGa, where they meet chef Julie Lin and her mother. Here, they explore the fusion of Scottish and Malaysian cuisines, discussing the evolution of culinary traditions and the concept of 'incorrect' yet delicious dishes. Julie shares her journey from MasterChef contestant to restaurant owner, highlighting the importance of building a passionate team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita delve into the heart of Glasgow's artistic heritage with a visit to the renowned Glasgow School of Art. Joined by Miquita's brother Louis, a recent graduate, they explore the institution's blend of tradition and innovation. From the modern Reid Building to the fire-scarred Mackintosh Building, they uncover the school's resilience and ongoing influence. Highlights include a fascinating tour of the textiles department, featuring century-old looms still in use today. The episode offers unique insights into the school's role in shaping creative minds and its impact on Glasgow's cultural landscape. Through conversations with staff, Andi and Miquita reflect on the value of artistic education and its power to transform lives and communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita hit Glasgow and begin their cultural and culinary landscape exploration, starting with a tour of the historic Citizens Theatre's renovation. They delve into the theatre's rich history and community impact with the artistic and technical directors. The journey continues at the beloved University Cafe, where Andi discovers a legendary lasagna. Here, they're joined by Michelin-starred chef Lorna McNee for an insightful discussion on Scotland's evolving food scene. Throughout their adventure, Andi and Miquita reflect on Miquita's Scottish heritage, uncovering Glasgow's underappreciated charm and surprising sophistication. From theatrical legacies to culinary innovations, this episode reveals the heart of Glasgow - a city of contrasts, creativity, and unexpected delights. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Andi and Miquita as they explore the rich storytelling traditions of Edinburgh. They begin at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, where Donald Smith brings to life the dramatic tale of Mary Queen of Scots, challenging long-held historical narratives. The pair then visit Greyfriars Kirkyard with guide Eric Melvin, uncovering centuries of Edinburgh's history and the touching story of Greyfriars Bobby. Throughout, Andi and Miquita reflect on the power of oral history, the importance of perspective in storytelling, and the surprising parallels between Scottish and Caribbean cultural traditions. The episode concludes with a visit to the Little Chartroom, where chef Roberta Hall-McCarron shares her culinary journey and the evolving Scottish food scene. From ancient graveyards to modern kitchens, this episode peels back the layers of Edinburgh's rich tapestry, revealing how Scotland's capital city continues to honour its past while carving out a vibrant future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Andi explores Edinburgh with her longtime friend Sandra Walker. They visit the Scottish Poetry Library, delving into the rich literary traditions of Scotland and discussing the importance of poetry in Scottish culture.  Andi and Sandra reflect on the intertwining of politics, rebellion, and art in Scottish history, and how it resonates with their own experiences. The pair also explore Sandra's connection to Edinburgh, uncovering a remarkable family history tied to the very building Sandra now calls home. From Burns Night celebrations to the preservation of Edinburgh's architectural heritage, get ready for cultural insights, and the enduring power of words in shaping Scottish identity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Andi and Miquita as they kick off their special Scottish series of Stirring It Up. Kicking off in Edinburgh, Miquita reconnects with her Scottish heritage by visiting Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers with her father, Robin. They explore the fascinating history of tartan, from its origins as a practical fabric to its role in uniting Scotland. Gordon shares insights on kilt-making traditions, modern tartan designs, and how this iconic pattern has influenced global fashion. Miquita discovers more about her family's Baillie tartan and the deep connections between Scottish culture and her own ancestry. This episode weaves together personal discovery, cultural history, and the artistry of Scottish craft Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita sit down to celebrate Habitat's 60th anniversary in this special bonus episode recorded in partnership with them to launch their 60 years of design collection.In this episode, Andi shows Miquita how to make Jalapeno Green Seasoning Chicken using the Habitat Chicken Brick dish, with Hibiscus Frozen Margaritas.They talk about learning to cook and the power of food and family meal times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andi and Miquita are joined by Poppy O' Toole in this special bonus episode recorded in partnership with Philadelphia.In this episode, Andi creates whipped Philadelphia with green seasoning and crispy roast turmeric smashed potatoes with Honey Baked Chicken. It's all washed down with Miquita's 'Apple Crumble on the Rocks' They talk about all things potatoes, including a potato cake! Lockdown cooking, content and their career paths that got them to where they are today. You can be in with a chance to win a VIP Philadelphia Brunch with Andi for you and your friends! To enter, head to your local retailer, pick up a pack of Philly, and follow the instructions on how to enter on the website. Competition closes on 31.08.24, see here for full T&Cs: https://bit.ly/3zt4UjA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director, Actor, Writer and Comedian Asim Chaudhry joins Andi and Miquita for lunch - and it’s a joyful, hilarious, sun-soaked, and perfect end to the series. Andi has concocted a slow cooked lamb belly with flageolet beans cooked in rum punch , a pickled fig and apple salad, with a butterbean and white corn puree. Miquita’s drink is a sensational lager, gin, and grapefruit cocktail. Asim talks about growing up in Hounslow, his passion for life behind the camera, and making ends meet before the phenomenal success of “People Just Do Nothing”. We also learn that the inspiration for Chabuddy G was found very close to home, the importance of family, his Grandmother’s special ‘Haleem’ dish, his 90s hip hop influenced Celebrity Mastermind subject, and why freestyling as an MC is actually rubbish. An Offscript Production, and YaYa Production. Produced by Tayo Popoola.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actress Adjoa Andoh joins Andi and Miquita for lunch. She brings her friend, Producer and Creative Consultant, Adele Cross.It's a meal fit for a Lady Danbury. - an Andi special of a sweet potato and coconut dumpling, tamales, caramelised onions with prunes, with an oyster mushroom and an ackee puree. It's all washed down with Miquita's sake, white vermouth, cherries and vodka cocktail.The talk is of growing up in the Cotswolds countryside and finding new roots in London, falling in love with the clash, and the life lessons learned from punk; of re-examining history, and bringing the 'Sankofa' to Bridgerton. They also speak about the journeys of their respective parents to the UK, of "going back, to remember where you're from", and why home is always in the heart.An Offscript Production, and YaYa Production Produced by Tayo Popoola. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Broadcaster Vanessa Feltz joins Andi and Miquita, and becomes the first guest to have a dish named after them - a salted cod, steamed over curried fennel and onion, with green gazpacho.Vanessa discusses growing up in "Swimming pool and chopped liver belt" of Jewish North London, a world of 70's dinner parties, and a neighbours including the likes of Cliff Richard, Frankie Vaughan and the Beverly Sisters. She also speaks about her route into radio, dating, writing her autobiography, interviewing Boris Johnson, motherhood and more. There's plenty of time to get into the many highs, and the heartbreak along the way to becoming one of the nation's best loved presenters. An Off script Production, and YaYa Production.Produced by Tayo Popoola. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Athlete Emily Campbell joins Miquita and Andi for a salt fish salad, pickled cucumber & jalapeño broth, sweet potato fritters, roast garlic oil, and seared wagyu beef - a huge menu because it's not every day you have an Olympian in the house!The three of them discuss how Emily has become the most successful British Weightlifter of modern times, and her hopes for Paris 2024. Emily reflects on her route into weightlifting, the incredible support of her parents and a special teacher, and on the struggle for funding in the early days. There are also stories of growing up in Nottingham, finding your path, how random drug tests an play havoc with your love life, and - speaking of which - what *really* goes down in the Olympic Village when the games are over, and the fun begins!An Offscript Production, and YaYa Production. Produced by Tayo Popoola Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writer, Comedian, and Broadcaster Sandi Toksvig takes her place at Andi and Miquita's table today, and it's one of those rare Stirring It Up occasions where there are two extra guests. Sandi brings her wife, Therapist Debbie Toksvig, and Author and Journalist Catherine MayerOn the menu today is wild garlic grits, slow braised lamb, and plantain, and a toasted peanut slaw. Also on the menu is the story of Sandi and Debbie's meeting, being 'hit by lightening', (including why Debbie thought Sandi would be a 'f*****g nightmare'!), early days in comedy, why Catherine and Sandi founded the Women's Equality Party, and why it's still needed, going to war with Wikipedia, creating a digital, story-map of the world, the pain of press intrusion, the pleasure of becoming an elder, and much more. A real meeting of minds, and hearts. An Offscript Production, and Yaya Production. Produced by Tayo Popoola. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a special afternoon in the Oliver household, as Actress Alison Steadman joins Andi and Miquita for an afternoon gimlet, and three types of fish - red mullet, sea bream and mackerel, finished with tamarind butter and wild garlic oil. She brings her husband, Actor Michael Elwyn. High on the agenda is the business of acting - as you'd expect with two incredible thespians in attendance! Navigating self doubt and rejection, self taped auditions, acting as a couple during lockdown, the luxury of being able to pick and choose roles, the harsh reality of getting older as an actress ( and why it can get easier for Michael as a man), the joy of improv, and Alison's iconic roles that span three generations of audience, with roles in Abigail's Party, Shirley Valentine, Nuts In May, Gavin & Stacey are all discussed. Miquita also successfully manages to steer the conversation onto the joys of bird watching, to the 'delight' of Andi!An Offscript Production, and YaYa Production. Produced by Tayo Popoola Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.