Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast British Culture: Albion Never Dies
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In Praise of Moonraker - with Jonathan Sothcott, CEO Shogun Films | 28 sept. 2026 | 00:32:58 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Is Moonraker (1979) the most under-appreciated 007 film among James Bond aficionados? Thomas Felix Creighton discusses this question with his special guest, who as CEO of Shogun Films has recently produced a British spy film of his own; Knightfall (2026) even has Roger Moore’s son Geoffrey, along with Sir Roger Moore's successor in the role of Simon Templar (aka 'The Saint'), Ian Ogilvy. Thomas and Jonathan Sothcott cover such questions as:
All this and a good discussion of menswear... after all, Jonathan Sothcott is the author of 'The Jermyn Street Shirt'! Check out Shogun Films: https://www.shogunfilms.com/ This podcast's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/britishculture | |||
| I never left: Watch this space (and why to do so) | 17 sept. 2026 | 00:28:31 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! This podcast has been a little quiet of late - but things won't stay that way. In this episode, Thomas explains what happened, what's happening, and what will happen. Apart from all that, there are also a few 'regular' episodes 'in the can' including two great interviews with published authors. More episodes are being worked on, so keep an eye out for new episodes, in the near future. *some apps may have a previous version of this episode where Thomas mis-spoke a date, all apps that can be corrected post-release have been. | |||
| REISSUE: The Fourth of July - The British Perspective | 03 juil. 2026 | 00:29:36 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about the British perspective on 4th July – American Independence Day. This episode is perfect to listen to as you drive to a family barbeque on the day, giving you fun facts, and a unique perspective you can share!
All these questions are answered, with the following books and films recommended (listen in order of mention in the episode): Books:
Movies:
Released on the first of July, to give you time to listen in advance of the celebratory day, when many will be busy with family, or in case you have a really long drive to get to that barbeque! Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| The Britishess of 007 First Light [Episode 214] | 04 mai 2026 | 00:37:07 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! The new James Bond video game releases at the end of this month, but how 'British' will this latest iteration of 007 really be? This is a no spoilers look at everything we've seen so far, as I ask first 'What is Britishness?' (as always), ponder the relevance of medium (games in particular), before picking out a few things I noticed in the various playthroughs I've watched of the game itself. Nothing to spoil surprises, just little things to look out for. My recommended rabbit hole is a Sid Meier interview for Kotaku gaming magazine. I referenced one from 2010, but there is also this one from a little later: https://kotaku.com/the-father-of-civilization-584568276 I recorded this whilst a little under the weather, so not too much editing, apologies for any repetitions or errors. | |||
| Between Two Worlds - A Slice of UK and China Life [Episode 213] | 20 avr. 2026 | 00:32:20 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about the issues that really matter, getting a (slightly) nicer coffee and a gluten-free muffin in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. He compares this to doing much the same in Bingley, West Yorkshire, UK. He also compares a range of more important stories, from therapy dogs and robots to a very familiar fake doctor at a hospital.
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| Work Culture Around the World [Episode 212] | 06 avr. 2026 | 00:38:28 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton has worked in Turkish Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UK, and China. Here, he sets out three models for understanding the different working cultures in different countries, and illustrates them with some of his own experiences. First, Derek Silvers’ 2 minute 38 second TED Talk, drawing particularly on his experience in Japan. A quick and very basic look at 'weird or just different', which is nonetheless a good starting point, and a good reminder for more 'advanced expats'. http://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_weird_or_just_different Then, the six Hofstede Dimensions:
Thirdly, Thomas then looks at 'the Silent Language' by Edward T Hall:
Finally, some final reflections on ‘weird or just different’. If you find this podcast interesting, in any way, please do share your thoughts with Thomas at the website below or by e-mail: albionneverdies@gmail.com | |||
| From China With Love - A Brit in Chengdu [Episode 211] | 24 mars 2026 | 00:40:32 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton shares his experiences from a month in Chengdu (Sichuan Province, China). He previously lived in Shenzhen (Guangdong Province) 2015-2021 and Turkish Cyprus 2001-2008 – he draws on both these experiences as he discusses how experience, language ability, and the company we keep can shape our perceptions of culture. Naturally, he talks about some Chengdu highlights a little, so skip to the end if that’s what you are primarily interested… or listen to the whole thing and enjoy the ride! Thomas recommends: Daniel Gaster: his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DanielGaster The jacket review Thomas mentions: https://fromtailorswithlove.co.uk/james-bonds-no-time-to-die-massimo-alba-rain-2-duster-coat-review Daniel Gaster's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielgaster Caine: Film reviews and a video diary of a visit to small Chinese city, so if you enjoyed this podcast episode, do check these two Youtube videos out: Caine’s Anqing (China) diary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qtGLk3cY7A Caine’s review of a Chinese movie that delves into the meaning of 'memory' and how it shapes who we are. The review Thomas 100% recommends: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=6ugQHJw2IdI | |||
| James Bond and China [Episode 210] | 10 mars 2026 | 00:48:15 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton draws upon six years in China and knowledge of Ian Fleming's James Bond 007 to give an insight into how the series has merged fact and fiction, for the most part without friction. Books, websites, and movies mentioned:
...and these are just the key ones. Plenty more 007 and China references out there, I am sure. | |||
| The Britishness of Cozy Crime [Episode 209] | 24 févr. 2026 | 00:41:22 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about the 'cozy crime' genre, drawing on a range of suggestions from TV and film critics, academics, and his own friends. Thomas even has a special guest contribution from Jon Auty, host of 'Behind the Stunts' and 'The Bond Buzz', do check those out. Suggested reading:
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| Pith Helmet Adventures - Interview with Alex Lamas (Youtube: Always Say Yes To Adventures) | 10 févr. 2026 | 00:39:59 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks to Alex Lamas ( Instagram @sifu_lamas / Youtube @ @yestoadventure007 ) about his love of movies set in the British Empire. This includes Zulu (1964), Zulu Dawn (1979), Breaker Morant (1980), Four Feathers (1939), Gunga Din (1939), The Wind and the Lion (1975), and two we focus on particularly; The Man Who Would Be King (1979) with Sean Connery and Micheal Caine and Lawrence of Arabia (1962) with Peter O’Toole and Omar Sharif. He also talks about the joy of visiting some of the historic locations seen in some of these films, which you can see more of on his Instagram and Youtube channels. This includes Aït Benhaddou, Morocco, which was used for:
Do check out: https://www.youtube.com/@yestoadventure007 Books I would recommend: Jan Morris, the ‘Pax Britannica Trilogy’ of books about the art and popular depiction of the British Empire: 'Heaven's Command: An Imperial Progress', 'Pax Britannica: Climax of an Empire', 'Farewell the Trumpets: An Imperial Retreat'. Many, many books by Rudyard Kipling, including the original short story ‘The Man Who Would Be King’ (1888) and ‘Kim’ (1901). And, T.E. Lawrence’s ‘The Seven Pillars of Wisdom’ (1926). I reference the following; Lawrence of Arabia: A Film's Anthropology by Steven C. Caton (1999), a great insight into the critical reception of David Lean's classic movie. | |||
| Murder on the Orient Express ~ No Spoilers! [Episode 207] | 20 janv. 2026 | 00:32:30 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about 'the Britishness' of one of the most famous murder mysteries in the world... with no spoilers! He talks about the themes, characters, places, and ideas that shape this remarkable story from Agatha Christie. He also gives a guide to the key adaptations in film, TV, and audio. | |||
| An Insight into Irish Culture - Interview with Garvan Rushe (DublinTourGuide.ie) | 30 déc. 2025 | 00:58:45 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton interview Garvan Rushe about Irish culture, gaining an insight into the British-Irish connection. Garvan runs Dublin Tour Guide, a boutique tour company known for its personalised, privately guided walks through Dublin. With more than fifteen years of guiding experience, he specialises in creating made-to-measure tours for small groups, shaping each experience around what guests truly care about. Over the years, he has also developed and mentored a team of nine professional guides who share his commitment to quality and attention to detail. Discover more about his tours at www.dublintourguide.ie.
https://www.dublintourguide.ie Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/DublinTourGuide Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dublintourguide/ X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/tourguidedublin | |||
| The Britishness of On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) - with David Zaritsky (The Bond Experience) | 16 déc. 2025 | 00:29:43 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks to David Zaritsky of 'The Bond Experience' about the Britishness of 1969's James Bond 007 adventure, 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'. The movie has an Australian star, an American and a Canadian producer, and was certainly made for export... so why does this film feel so extremely 'British'? Listen to find out! You can find David at:
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| Calvin Dyson Interview - Which is the 'Most British' James Bond Film? | 02 déc. 2025 | 00:44:02 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton interviews Calvin Dyson, one of the first people to set up a 007-themed Youtube channel, and asks 'Which is the 'most British' James Bond film?'. Don't worry, we *do* talk about the TV animated series 'James Bond Jr.'! https://www.youtube.com/calvindyson Thomas adds a fun fact about the ending For Your Eyes Only, which ultimately comes from the John Glen book 'For My Eyes Only', hardback edition page 115. It did not come from 'a man down the pub'. | |||
| 'V' is for... Victoria [Episode 203] | 18 nov. 2025 | 00:37:27 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton continues The Alphabet of Britishness, looking especially at Queen Victoria. The first ten minutes covers: Thomas’ top three cinematic and TV depictions of Queen Victoria
...and also in brief some other 'V' topics such as:
The main part of this podcast comprises of two readings, one on the height of the Victorian Era, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee of 1897, and the second on The Great Exhibition of 1851.
Visit the website: https://albionneverdies.com/
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| Interview with Jonathan Sothcott - CEO of Shogun Films [Episode 202] | 04 nov. 2025 | 00:30:08 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton interviews the CEO of Shogun Films, Jonathan Sothcott. Jonathan Sothcott is one of the UK's most experienced and successful independent producers with a track record of success with high concept, low budget genre films. Described by GQ Magazine as "a film producer behind a whole new generation of on-screen hardmen", a 2021 Sothcott profile piece in The Telegraph noted his movies "have saved our film industry." He has over 20 years of experience in the British film industry, and we discuss what makes a movie ‘British'?. We also discuss some of the best films of the 1980s, and the established stars at the time. We also discuss his forthcoming movie, ‘Knightfall’, currently in post-production: “Charles Knight, a paranoid former spy catcher, must work with his estranged daughter to foil an international terrorist plot, while surviving a terrifying home invasion in this explosive espionage thriller”. Before making his name in feature films, Sothcott produced documentaries and moderated DVD commentaries for numerous cult films, including The Wild Geese.
Finally, we discuss he state of the British film industry, and the way ahead. Visit the website: https://albionneverdies.com/ | |||
| A Slice of Yorkshire (and London) Life [Episode 201] | 20 oct. 2025 | 00:31:20 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about life in the UK, examining local news in a little town in West Yorkshire and a visit to London. Whilst the national media is very London-centric, most Brits only see the capital on occasional visits - Thomas has only visited London once in 2025. So, that 'internal tourist' view is given for 10 minutes, with the majority of remaining 20 minutes focussing on local news: missing cats, a rogue roof tile, a swan on the loose, a surprise chocolate bar, a 100 year old being taken back to work (for a visit), local hooligans, criminals, and the prospects of Golden Arches in town. Plus, our swimming pool drama. This is life as it is truly led, here in the UK. Visit the podcast website: https://albionneverdies.com/ Message Thomas anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com Check out the Red Bubble shop | |||
| In Praise of... James Bond: Die Another Day [Episode 200] | 29 sept. 2025 | 00:46:13 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton celebrates his 200th podcast episode by setting out his most controversial opinion on the James Bond franchise: that 2002's Pierce Brosnan adventure, 'Die Another Day', is a great film. Not one that starts decent and then goes off the rails, not one that is good in concept and but fails in execution - it is an out and out fun action romp of the early 2000s. Thomas is fully aware that there are other opinions, and has taken much advice on this from the fan community. He has considered other these opinions, acknowledges them, and discusses them. Many thanks to those who have patiently (and kindly) explained *their* perspective. But, Thomas Felix Creighton likes Die Another Day, and that's what this episode is all about. As Madonna sings in the title sequence, 'Sigmund Freud, analyse this... I'm gonna break the cycle' (the cycle of fans not liking this film). Pierce Brosnan goes out with a bang. Visit the podcast website: https://albionneverdies.com/ Message Thomas anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com Check out the Red Bubble shop | |||
| The Britishness of The Living Daylights - 1987's James Bond 007 Adventure [Episode 199] | 15 sept. 2025 | 00:42:15 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton examines the Britishness of Timothy Dalton's first outing as Ian Fleming's creation, James Bond, 007. Part One: Brits in Afghanistan Thomas touches on iconic imagery, such as the infamous painting, “The remnants of an army, Jellalabad [sic], January 13, 1842”, which is better known as just "Remnants of an Army". It was painted by Elizabeth Thompson, Lady Butler in 1878, and shows Dr. William Brydon, assistant surgeon in the Bengal Army, arriving at the gates of Jalalabad in January 1842. He was thought to be the only survivor of a massacre at The Khyber Pass. This is detailed in a book Thomas has recommended before, "The Great Game: The Struggle for Empire in Central Asia" by Peter Hopkirk, the chapter "Massacre in the Passes". For the sake of variety, Thomas reads from a book not previously covered in his episodes on the British Empire, namely, Jeremy Paxman's "Empire: What Ruling the World Did to the British". If it wasn't clear in the episode (Thomas has been down with a cold and is still a tiny bit fuzzy), the 'British' were fighting in Afghanistan mainly to forestall any Russian influence there, as it was seen as the gateway to India. Not so different from James Bond's objectives in the movie, I suppose. Part Two: A Potpourri of Britishness Covering a shop with a dress code, British technology, Aston Martins, and country estates. Thomas can't resist referencing an American court case, Leonard v. Pepsico, Inc. Give me a harrier jump jet, or I'll sue... Part Three: Fleming. Ian Fleming. Again, seeking some measure of variety, Thomas reads two short sections from "The Life of Ian Fleming" by John Pearson, Fleming's friend and biographer. Two further biographies were consulted, especially the ones by Nicholas Shakespeare and Andrew Lycett, but Pearson's was better on this occasion. Thomas also refer to a collection of Fleming's writing recently released, named, "Talk of the Devil", possibly getting the title wrong. If he does get it wrong, he blames the cold. Hungry for more? Check out episodes 133 & 134, all about Gibraltar thanks to my friend Caine, who spent a weekend on The Rock purely to help out my podcast. Also, episode 189, an interview with the movie’s director, John Glen. Visit the podcast website: https://albionneverdies.com/ Message Thomas anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com Check out the Red Bubble shop | |||
| Listener Request: If you could live in any fantasy universe... [Episode 198] | 01 sept. 2025 | 00:30:30 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton was asked by his friend, and listener to this podcast, David Webber, ‘If you could live in any fantasy universe, which one would it be?’ – this podcast first looks at the concept of 'escapism' and then answers that question in detail! Thomas considers:
A couple of extras are touched on at the end, Star Trek Voyager and Dr. Who, and a final verdict *is* given. The assumption is that Thomas is not the hero (or villain) of these worlds, and that the visit could be anything from one day to one year. Message Thomas anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| James Bond in the USA - with British author Roland Hulme [Episode 197] | 18 août 2025 | 00:28:42 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Host Thomas Felix Creighton and British novelist Roland Hulme talk about James Bond in the USA, particularly the three movies set there directed by Guy Hamilton; Goldfinger (1964), Diamonds Are Forever (1971), and Live and Let Die (1973). Their talk ranges from Ian Fleming's original 007 novels to contemporary perspectives on American culture. Roland Hulme on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rolandhulme/ *** | |||
| Brits in the Desert – My Family in Kuwait, 1978 [Episode 196] | 04 août 2025 | 00:26:25 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton shares his parents’ letters, written from Kuwait in 1978, and reflects on their first experience as Brits in a non-Western country. A huge part of this channel is drawing on Thomas' international experience, so he regularly gets messages asking, ‘why did you live abroad?’ – The usual reply is, ‘My parents started it!’. So, not unreasonably, some people ask, ‘Okay, so why did your parents live abroad?’. One formative experience for the older Creighton generation was living in Kuwait 1978-1981. It was not Lee and Frank Creighton's first time overseas, they’d lived in Germany together already. But, Kuwait was a particularly impactful experience, and one they often both talked about. Germany was more familiar, they were with a much larger British Army contingent. Whereas in Kuwait, they were with the much smaller ‘Kuwait Liaison Team’ (KLT) team, and Kuwaiti culture very different from what Lee Creighton was familiar with. Frank had lived in Egypt and Aden (Yemen) as a child - again in British Army camps, but with ample opportunity to observe and interact with the local culture. Thomas reads three letters from his parents. The first, an e-mail sent in 2012, is a reflection on their time in Kuwait, 30 years later. The second, is Lee Creighton’s first letter to her parents in England, from Kuwait (1978). The third reading is Frank’s letter to Lee’s parents, also 1978. Thomas gives further reflections on his time in Saudi Arabia (2012/13), and uses that to remark on his parent’s recollections. For more, check out the 'podcast highlights' section of AlbionNeverDies.com https://www.albionneverdies.com/podcast-highlights/brits-in-the-desert Message Thomas anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| The Britishness of Live and Let Die: A DEEP DIVE: Fleming, Film, and Fans [Episode 195] | 21 juil. 2025 | 00:54:50 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton examines the Britishness of ‘Live and Let Die’, both the 1954 novel by Ian Fleming, and the 1973 movie starring Roger Moore. Contributors include British author in the USA, Roland Hulme, New York based Youtuber Alex Lamas (Always say YES to Adventure), and blogger and writer Matt Spaiser (Bondsuits.com). The main interview at the end is with Peter Brooker, co-author of ‘From Tailors With Love’ (with Matt Spaiser) and ‘Boy Wanted on Saville Row’, a biography of Sir Timothy Everest. You can also find him at his podcast, ‘There Will Be Bond’, which is available from all great podcasting apps. The podcast in in three main parts: An examination of the 1954 novel, and what made it a best-seller in the UK. If JFK made 007 a household name in the USA, what made him a best-seller here in the UK years before? The Suez Canal Crisis, and the author’s high society connections, played a vital part. Heading towards the 1973 movie features contributions from Roland Hulme examining ‘the race question’, Alex Lamas giving a take on authentic portrayals of New York, and Matt Spaiser, also in New York giving an overview of the menswear featured in the film. Finally, we have the interview with Pete Brooker, recorded in 2022, now released for the first time. Yes, that is the speed of my podcast, it’s analysis not news. He talks about having a shirt made from the same bolt of fabric, by the same shirtmaker, as the one worn by 007 in the movie. Books I reference include: · Ian Fleming – the Complete Man, by Nicholas Shakespeare · The Life of Ian Fleming, by John Pearson · The Man with the Golden Typewriter, edited by Fergus Fleming · Some Kind of Hero – The Remarkable Story of the James Bond Films, by Matthew Field and Ajay Chowdhry · The 007 Diaries, by Roger Moore Recommended Rabbit Hole: K. Hagen · The Spectre of “Bloody Morgan”: Ian Fleming’s Use of the Pirate Motif (available online): International Journal of James Bond Studies · Vol. 1, Issue 2 · Spring 2018 Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| 007 First Light: A Gamer and a Non-Gamer Perspective: Interview with Alex (Sifu) Lamas | 07 juil. 2025 | 00:36:13 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks to Alex (Sifu) Lamas about the trailer for the forthcoming James Bond video game, First Light. Thomas had been playing Hitman 2 for a several hours before recording this game, relevant as these are the same people working on the new 007 game. Many more hours in, the statements in the podcast still hold true. Do check out the new website: | |||
| The Fourth of July - The British Perspective | 30 juin 2025 | 00:29:36 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about the British perspective on 4th July – American Independence Day. This episode is perfect to listen to as you drive to a family barbeque on the day, giving you fun facts, and a unique perspective you can share!
All these questions are answered, with the following books and films recommended (listen in order of mention in the episode): Books:
Movies:
Released on the first of July, to give you time to listen in advance of the celebratory day, when many will be busy with family, or in case you have a really long drive to get to that barbeque! Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
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| NEW BOOK: 'Another Round – A Post-War History of Britain in 12 Strong Drinks', interview with author Dr. Steven Parissien [Episode 192] | 23 juin 2025 | 00:34:33 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks to Oxford historian Dr. Steven Parissien about his forthcoming book, ‘Another Round – A Post-War History of Britain in 12 Strong Drinks’ from publisher August Books. This book publishes in the UK on 11th September, 2025. | |||
| The Transatlantic Bond Film: 1985's A View to a Kill - Interview with Chris Morales (@ThatOneBondGuy) in California [Episode 191] | 09 juin 2025 | 00:29:51 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton interviews Christopher Morales, also known as @ThatOneBondGuy on Instagram and Youtube, to get a Californian's perspective on 1985's James Bond film A View to a Kill. https://www.instagram.com/thatonebondguy https://www.youtube.com/thatonebondguy This final Roger Moore 007 film takes place in San Francisco, for the final hour, close to where Chris lives. Both he and Thomas have enjoyed exploring the locations, so here they happily share their love of the film. Some light spoilers for the film, but if you're listening to them enthuse over a 40 year old film, hopefully you've seen it already! This film was discussed in Episode 189, an interview with the film's director, John Glen. Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| Britain in the 1950s | Post-War, Cold War, and Family [Episode 190] | 26 mai 2025 | 00:41:33 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about Britishness in the 1950s, drawing on both academic sources, and family diaries, letters, and recollections. This episode covers family experiences of the Second World War, births in the baby boom, and life in Britain and the Empire in the new Elizabethan Age. Books recommended include:
Thomas also talks about the following Youtube videos, which give some imagery to what is here described:
If you have memories or family stories to share, please do get in touch: Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| Interview with John Glen - Director of Five James Bond Films [Episode 189] | 12 mai 2025 | 00:32:06 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton interviews John Glen, who directed five James Bond 007 films, three with Sir Roger Moore KBE in the lead and two with Timothy Dalton:
He also directed Christopher Columbus: The Discovery (1992), and worked on The Italian Job (1969), The Admirable Crichton (1957), and was responsible for the iconic parachute jump at the start of The Spy Who Loved Me (1977). We talk about all of the above films, as well as discussing what makes James Bond so British, what is the formula for a great 007 film, John Glen's rise through the film industry, and his experiences as a Brit abroad. We also talk about two of the iconic women of the films, Maud Adams and Grace Jones, as well as which actor was author Ian Fleming's first choice to play the character of Bond, James Bond. Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| The Britishness of Octopussy: The lucky 13th James Bond film, discussed by authors and fans. | 28 avr. 2025 | 00:45:52 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thomas Felix Creighton talks about the 1981 James Bond movie Octopussy starring Roger Moore as British secret agent 007. His special guests for this episode include:
There are also a couple of bonus contributions by… well… you’ll see! There. Will. Also. Be. A. *Very* Special Announcement! About a forthcoming episode, right near the end. Don't miss it. Message Thomas anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies E-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com Check out my Red Bubble shop | |||
| What is an Anglican Easter? [Episode 187] | 14 avr. 2025 | 00:37:34 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! I am delighted to be joined by Canon Ned Lunn at Bradford Cathedral for this special Easter episode! I ask him:
Anglicans are, of course, members of the the Church of England or members of any Church in communion with it. You can find Bradford Cathedral on Youtube: @bfdCathedral Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies E-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| BONUS: Happy Birthday James Bond, 007! [Episode 186] | 12 avr. 2025 | 00:19:55 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! April 13th! It's James Bond's birthday today... (oh, and mine!) Check out my SmörgåsBond playlist on Youtube: www.youtube.com/britishculture ...or indeed any of my previous Bond-themed podcast episodes. I always talk about the importance of Ian Fleming, and today marks the publication of his very first James Bond novel, 'Casino Royale'. I recommend three Ian Fleming biographies:
Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies E-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com Check out my Red Bubble shop | |||
| The CHINESE Culture Podcast: 中国 Never Dies | 01 avr. 2025 | 01:08:21 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! A real change for the podcast: After 5 years of talking about British culture, it's time to move on and talk about 'The Middle Kingdom', China. I lived in China from 2015-2021, and regularly wrote e-mails to my parents detailing my time there. The first half of the podcast is me reading from these and adding in my reflections almost a decade on. I talk about my first arrival in China, the visa process and settling in at work, as well as a day trip to Hong Kong. This is the first 30 minutes. I then read a fourth e-mail detailing my first trip to Macao. I do actually have a series of reflective pieces I wrote for Chinese social media in 2021 as I was leaving. I read these prior to recording, but didn't read them out, as the podcast is long enough as it is. If you enjoy this episode, perhaps I will use them later more fully. In the second half of this podcast, I talk about Chinese cultural topics as requested by my Chinese friends. These include:
I would usually do a great deal of reading, online and from my own book collection, before talking on such specialised topics. But on this occasion, I draw 100% from my experiences, as I currently remember them. Again, I am drawing on old writing, and another source I used was a leather-bound notebook I filled with entries detailing my day-to-day life in my first few years in China. I created this for my parents, who are well-travelled but had not been to China. The notebook passed back to me after my mother passed away. I was gratified to learn that she had often read it, and it was always close to hand for her. For further reading and viewing, I recommend the Youtube channels, @VideosByCaine and @DaNiuLaoShi both by a friend of mine who also lived in China. His experiences are naturally different from mine, his personal perspective is unique, but there is much in common also. I highly recommend all his content. Between the both of us, you would get a very full and rounded idea of life in China. No two people experience the same (or similar) events in the same way. There is much to gain from seeing both our experiences. I really like this video my friend created, called "China, I miss you": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R28JoQszHqI ...and also the video below, which looks at why he first went to China. Don't worry about the Chinese title of the video, he speaks in English throughout! Actually, the thoughts in his video very much relate to the first half of this podcast. We do often compare and contrast our experiences, and our differing reflections, so again, I really recommend checking out both our content. 回忆之旅 — 安庆漫跑记 | 大牛跑步第六集: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1cuC2_M1IM If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me using any of the methods below! Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| British Manners [Episode 184] | 25 mars 2025 | 00:29:06 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! The UK is famously polite, but is the reputation well-deserved? I check out the Hugh Dennis book, ‘Britty Britty Bang Bang’, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Micheal Portillo’s Great British Railway Journeys, and a range of other sources. I also draw on my own experience in the US, China, Turkish Cyprus, and elsewhere. Most of all, I ask you for your experience, so do get in touch! Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies E-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| British Culture Q&A [Episode 183] | 11 mars 2025 | 00:34:47 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Your questions answered, whether sent via Instagram, Chinese social media, or in a comment on Youtube! The questions were:
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me using any of the methods below! Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| Amazon Buys 007 & British Family Businesses [Episode 182] | 25 févr. 2025 | 00:29:59 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! "Amazon MGM Studios, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli today announced that they have formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights, and those parties will remain co-owners of the franchise. Under the terms of the new venture, Amazon MGM Studios will gain creative control of the James Bond franchise following closing of the transaction.” - 20/02/2025 This news has gained sufficient traction that even my wonderful vicar asked me about in on Sunday, before the service. Of course, the Broccoli family is American, although based in the UK. But, seeing creative control of a very British film icon passing from a family firm to a US corporation has raised many questions for many people. I give my take, which is that this is not the first turning point for 007, and that a third-generation business would be very unusual, both in movie making and in the UK generally. Naturally, I can't resist looking at the counter examples! According to the Campden Family Business news website, the oldest twenty family firms in the UK have collectively traded for 7013 years, and traded on average for 350 years each. I take a quick look into these, along with a couple of famous UK artisans, who each came from a family of famous creators, but who did not leave a business to be handed down to grandchildren, either. Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| Are the Harry Potter books worth reading? ...as an adult [Episode 181] | 11 févr. 2025 | 00:33:34 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! I’ve just read all 7 Harry Potter books, plus the three supplementary books, for the first time. I’ve also visited some of the movie locations in the UK (including Durham Cathedral and King’s Cross Station), tried Butterbeer and Fizzing Wizzbees (plus Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans and Chocolate Frogs), worn my house colours (having been sorted by the official Sorting Hat), and played the video game Hogwarts Legacy. I’m slowly re-watching the movies as well, having not watched any of them for well over a decade, and most of them since the year they first came out. Finally, I’m now checking out all the J.K. Rowling writings originally hosted on the Pottermore website. Was it all worth it? Listen to the episode to find out. The books in order:
The three supplementary books:
Message me anytime on Instagram, @FlemingNeverDies, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com | |||
| The Britishness of Quantum of Solace [Episode 180] | 28 janv. 2025 | 00:32:00 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! 5 very special guests join me for this episode from 4 continents:
We talk about places, themes, and values shown in this film from our vantage points in London, the USA, Chile, and Australia. Is this film truly British? If so, what makes it so? Listen to the episode to find out! | |||
| Interview with Raymond Benson - James Bond continuation author and more! [Episode 179] | 24 déc. 2024 | 00:32:04 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Raymond Benson is the author of over forty published titles. He is most well-known as being the first American to write continuation James Bond novels (six original titles and three film novelizations, between 1996-2002), and for the best-selling and acclaimed five-book serial, THE BLACK STILETTO (2011-2014). I also mention in the episode that he wrote, JETHRO TULL (POCKET ESSENTIAL SERIES) There's a lot more, so if you want the full story please visit the author at his website: https://raymondbenson.com/ and also his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRaymondBenson | |||
| The Britishness of James Bond: For Your Eyes Only (1981) starring Roger Moore | 17 déc. 2024 | 00:33:01 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Introduced by Joe Darlington (Being James Bond), I investigate the uniquely British aspects of this 007 film, with 6 special interviews from China thanks to my previous guest Max James Joy (A Brit Abroad... in China - Celebrating a 'British Day' in Guangzhou).
I draw on a range of books, including but not limited to:
For Greece during the Second World War, I do draw on Winston Churchill's 6 volume account, and recommend the following novel and TV drama:
If this podcast prompts any thoughts you would like to share, please do message me at the contact details below. | |||
| DEEP DIVE: The Britishness of Skyfall - My Favourite Daniel Craig 007 Film | 19 nov. 2024 | 00:59:18 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! What makes the 007 films so uniquely British? In this episode, I take a deep (1-hour) dive into 2012's 'Skyfall' starring Daniel Craig. If you haven’t seen the film ‘Skyfall’ since it came out in 2012, don’t worry, there is plenty for you. In fact, if you’ve never seen this film, I hope you’ll still enjoy this podcast, and indeed can still enjoy watching the film afterwards without too many plot or character spoilers beyond the usual shape of a Bond / action film... but I will comment on locations a great deal. I’m looking at what stands out to me in this film as a UK cultural icon, pondering what adds to my enjoyment, and delving into cultural touchpoints along the way. Bond reviews are my most requested topic, but this is something hopefully satisfying for Bond fans and for non-Bond fans alike.
The final 5 minutes is me explaining why I like this film so much. I largely avoid topics covered in other podcasts I listen to, especially film reviews of Skyfall. I even avoid repeating what I previously said on 'The Bond Experience' Youtube channel on this topic (which has full spoilers). So, if 1 hour is not enough, do check out: 'Queen Elizabeth II & James Bond | ON THEIR MAJESTIES’ SECRET SERVICE | King, Queen, Bond' over on Youtube. Thank you to everyone who has kindly encouraged me over the last 6-months especially. I am glad to be able to release my first newly recorded monologue since April 2024. Your messages have made all the difference at a personally very difficult time. Again, thank you. | |||
| REISSUE: Celebrating Trafalgar Night (21st October) | 21 oct. 2024 | 00:27:06 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Every year, on October 21st, the Royal Navy celebrates Admiral Nelson’s most famous victory, near Trafalgar in 1805 when 27 British Royal Naval ships defeated a combined French and Spanish fleet of 33 warships. I draw upon three books:
I also recommend the movie ‘Master and Commander’ (2003), the TV show Hornblower (1998-2003), and the classic clip (on Youtube) of John Noakes cleaning Nelson’s Column for the children’s TV show ‘Blue Peter’. You can e-mail me: AlbionNeverDies@Gmail.com | |||
| A Brit Abroad... in China - Celebrating a 'British Day' in Guangzhou | 14 oct. 2024 | 00:34:45 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! What is it like to be a Brit in China, before, during, and after the pandemic? Today's special guest, Max James Joy, shed some light on how being a Brit in China has changed over the last few years (since I left). He also talks about the different cultures found *within* China, and even within the same city. | |||
| BONUS: My First Time Living Overseas - A Brit in Turkish Cyprus (2001-2008) | 30 sept. 2024 | 00:34:46 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Have you ever wondered what it's like to live overseas? | |||
| Meeting the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak | 27 juin 2024 | 00:07:02 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Today, I met the Prime Minister of the UK. I give my very quick impressions of the event, from out in a field | |||
| NEW BOOK: Boy Wanted on Savile Row - An Interview with Pete Brooker (From Tailors With Love) [Episode 172] | 19 mars 2024 | 00:26:31 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! In this episode, I am delighted to interview Pete Brooker (From Tailors With Love) about his work about the forthcoming memoir of Timothy Everest MBE. | |||
| British Science Fiction [Episode 169] | 27 févr. 2024 | 00:29:22 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thank you to Instagram's @Izi_Ready_GoesBond for suggesting this topic! In this episode, I cover:
I also read from 'The Fixed Period' by Anthony Trollope, a sci-fi novel I learned about only this week! | |||
| Instagram's @ThatOneBondGuy talks, 'On HIS Majesty's Secret Service - A James Bond Continuation Novel by Charlie Higson [Episode 168] | 20 févr. 2024 | 00:31:13 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Chris Morales, @thatonebondguy on Instagram and Youtube gives me his unique take on the James Bond continuation novel, ‘On HIS Majesty’s Secret Service’ by Charlie Higson - who previously wrote the ‘Young Bond’ book series which are a prequel to the original Ian Fleming series. | |||
| The British-Chinese Connection [Episode 167] | 13 févr. 2024 | 00:33:34 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Happy Year of the Dragon, which in Mandarin is 'long' so it's going to be a looong year as a Chinese friend pointed out to me this week. | |||
| 'U' is for... 'Underground', 'Umbrella', and 'Upper-Class' [Episode 166] | 06 févr. 2024 | 00:29:32 | |
Don't be shy, send me a message! Thank you very much to Kyle Barbeau (Instagram's Easy Smiles and Expensive Watches) and David Nix (via e-mail) for suggesting these three topics! I spend 10 minutes on each one, roughly. | |||