In this episode of Swinging the Lamp, Dr. Steven Young shares insights from his book, A Fool's Wisdom, offering a compelling examination of modern scientific concepts compared to ancient alchemy. With a background in theoretical physics and nuclear physics, Young discusses his unconventional journey from academia to music, challenging mainstream notions about the world. He reveals how the events surrounding COVID-19 motivated him to scrutinise his beliefs and question the scientific narratives we've been taught. His exploration encourages listeners to rethink established truths and seek deeper understanding, blending scientific rigour with ancient knowledge.
Thor tells Rory about his latest comedy gig and Rory wonders when one should sieze the moment.
Rory is joined by Mark Thompson to discuss blue water cruising
Thor and Rory agree on the importance of hot hash browns at McDonalds and the usefulness of seawater cooling strainers.
Thor and Rory debate the British Class system and assess their own class credentials.
Thor and Rory discuss the wisdom of no more instruction on paper charts in UK Nautical Colleges.
The episode is an engaging mix of humour and insight as Rory and Thor banter about various transportation modes. They see-saw between Thor's public transport woes and the reliability of older cars, drawing a passionate debate about sustainable travel. Rory recounts an amusing experience with new lease cars and their intrusive alarms, while Thor reflects on the larger picture of environmental implications. The conversation shifts to maritime life, where they unravel the cultural dynamics of onboard chores and the notion of shared responsibility. With anecdotes spanning ships and skies, the dialogue underscores the evolving nature of travel and teamwork.
Thor reveals the result of his poll on who should win the Nobel Peace prize while Rory has a few anecdotes from the stormy weekend.
Thor is in recovery mode after his eye operation as he catches up with Rory to discuss the merits of Infra Red lookout cameras and bow fenders
Thor finds that NHS queues can be very speedy when you need something serious done and Rory outlines a 2026 sailing itinerary.
Thor and Rory catch up after a big week in the culture wars and discuss Rory's travails with a flooded heads and how he his gone mainstream.
Thor is buzzing after his impromptu call to perform at a stand-up gig but Rory questions how the word 'connection' has crept into modern parlance.
Thor and Rory discuss the wisdom of hereditary entitlement when it comes to the future of Scottish Islands and they conclude that lords resemble barnacles on a boat.
Thor and Rory exchange tales of woe on the boating front and Rory finds some of the nursery material not to his taste.
Rory drops in to Bill Williamson's pottery studio in Argyll to hear about his recent arrest and weekend in captivity after his silent vigil for Palestinian children fell foul of the 2000 Terrorism Act.
Thor gives Rory some "Thorapy". Rory is out at sea as he leaves the harbour at Eyemouth and heads for the Forth - but things are all a bit fraught.
Mark Thompson joins Thor and Rory to discuss how to deal with dodgy engines and the delights of taking your boat to the Mediterranean.
Thor and Rory discuss the dramatic Greenpeace protest off the Forth road bridge and Thor tells Rory about his plans for a weekend of Sailing out of Tarbert on the West Coast.
Thor reports on his sea experience with the RYA and his discovery of the best takeaway in Scotland while Rory recounts an unwelcome encounter with a dog owner on the beach.
With Thor on the high seas, Rory invites Mark Thompson to swing the lamp from his anchorage in Ibiza. He weighs in on the RYA debate, discusses solar power on boats and offers some candid reflection on the covid era + much more.