Swimspiration while in isolation: podcasts

If you want to step away from the screen and don’t have the concentration span for reading at the moment, you might turn to podcasts. Podcasts are a really popular medium and there is a huge variety to listen to, including swimming themed series. In April’s issue we interview Swim Wild podcast creator Karen Parry, you can order or subscribe to the magazine here. Until then, why not enjoy these podcast favourites.

Swim Wild, Karen Parry

Swim stories for any kind of swimmer is the best summary of this podcast. Now in its third series it has featured a mix of well-known swimmers like Beth French and popular swimmers like Suzanna Cruickshank. It tells personal tales, stories of iconic swims and connections with the natural world. Each listen is like meeting some new pals at the water’s edge.

Floating, Joe Minihane

You may know Joe from his book by the same name, which follows Roger Deakin’s footsteps and shares Joe’s story of swimming. His podcast is a collection of conversations with swimming guests including author Jenny Landreth and Deakin & Blue CEO Rosie Cook. Joe meets swimmers at their favourite swim spots, so watery sounds and bird song can be heard.

In the Deep End, Ed Accura

Ed is one of the founders of the Black Swimming Association and the personality behind the documentary film Blacks Can’t Swim. Each week Ed interviews black and ethnic celebrities about their relationship with swimming. Guests so far include Olympic hopeful Alice Dearing and Actor Noel Clarke.

Wild Swim, Manchester Mermaid

Celebration on the joy of swimming in lidos, lakes, rivers and seas. Some episodes are just short and sweet, others a longer listen. Guests include Founder & Publisher of Outdoor Swimmer, Simon Griffiths. Winter swimming, training and challenges all discussed.

Terra Incognita, Matt Pycroft

Ongoing series of longer conversations with pioneers of adventure and discovery. Great way to escape into amazing stories and experiences. Filmaker Matt Pycroft speaks to the most accomplished and respected voices in the field, from Arctic scientists to tree climbers. Really quite remarkable and inspiring stuff.

Living Adventurously, Alistair Humphreys

Author and adventurer Alistair Humphreys interviews ordinary people living extraordinary lives over the course of a month-long cycling journey. His aim was to discover what adventure means to different people and what stands in the way. Guests include IronMan and ultra-marathon runner Michaela Hanna.

The Game Changes, Sue Anstiss (Promote PR)

How sport has the power to transform people’s lives. A chance to listen to the biggest names in women’s sport and hear how women continue to knock down barriers and challenge the status quo. Sue Anstiss interviews guests like Broadcaster Clare Balding and Sports Editor at the Telegraph Anna Kessel.

Rambling about Rivers, The Rivers Trust

Especially interesting for those who love to swim in rivers, this podcast created and hosted by The Rivers Trust, highlights threats facing our waterways and what we can do to help. Guests include Contributing Editor Ella Foote talking about Dip a Day December 2019 when she swam in 31 different rivers.

Happy Place, Fearn Cotton

Easy listening and well produced, this is a popular podcast. BBC Radio presenter Fearn Cotton, doing what she does best, chatting to a mix of guests about their life, challenges and what happiness means to them. Six series to get through and lots of wisdom to be heard.

How to Fail, Elizabeth Day

Conversations that unpick what it is to fail. Uplifting and full of super stories you haven’t heard before from people you think you know. Really insightful lessons from people like philosopher and author Alain de Botton and amusing tales from people like David Baddiel. Comforting during times like this.