Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Swinging the Lamp

Thor and Rory check in from damp marinas to trade salty stories and civic gripes. They begin with an accidental anti–facial‑recognition hack (Marmite on the face) and drift through headlines about conscription, war‑narratives and how elites profit from conflict. The pair contrast historical misinformation — from WWI origins to myths around Hiroshima — with present‑day media steering. The chat swerves into boating life: dolphin sightings, yacht club socialising, an engine/gear snag caused by a misplaced seawater hose, and the pains of shoddy refits. They close with practical prep tips, reflections on community, and the absurdities of modern consumer and surveillance culture.

Rory and Thor pivot to heavier subjects: Border Force passage reporting and the 1979 Customs Act, renewed enforcement since 2022, and what it means for small-boat cruisers. That sparks broader geopolitical debate about Britain’s role in the Ukraine conflict, risk assessment of Russian retaliation, and whether martial law or mass disruption is conceivable. They weave history into the discussion, referencing secret-society influence before World War II and the speed at which crises can arrive — from 1914 to Covid — and what escape plans might realistically look like.

Thor and Rory trade stories from moored boats: a surprise inspection by UK Border Force in Lymington that revealed a 2022 requirement to register international voyages, and the frustration of being told to check out of the UK. They discuss the practical and philosophical absurdities of online paperwork at sea, the burden on cruisers, and the possibility that authorities are harvesting data rather than policing real threats. That leads into concerns about AI surveillance, airborne drones and the erosion of privacy for coastal sailors who cherish solitude and traditional maritime freedoms.

Mara (Helga Marie) joins Swinging the Lamp to walk through her decision to enter the Golden Globe Race — a solo, nonstop circumnavigation using 1968 technology: paper charts, sextant navigation, and strict restrictions on stopping or taking on supplies. She explains the appeal of pure, romantic sailing and the chance to disconnect, why astro navigation matters to her, and how live streaming three hours a day will let audiences share the highs and lows without changing her racing mindset. Expect candid talk about preparation, safety priorities, and mental stamina for eight months alone on the ocean.

The podcast episode kicks off with Thor explaining his choice of wearing a life jacket, setting a tone for a narrative filled with amusing boat incidents. Thor recounts two particular instances of maritime blunders involving inebriated sailors, sparking a spirited dialogue on safety and sobriety at sea. As the conversation turns personal, Thor admits to his own 'muppetry' when he forgets to disconnect shore power, despite following a checklist. Rory's impromptu meet with sailor Kate Cope who shares her latest sailing adventures brings the episode to a thrilling close, highlighting the unpredictable nature of marina life.

Thor makes progress on. his boat while Rory encounters the Boston World Cup expereince

Thor and Rory discuss transport etiquette and Thor discovers a surprising thing about Rory's past.

Rory tells Thor about his boat travails and they end up swinging the lamp about iconic 80s culture.

Thor and Rory dive into the joys and challenges of sailing, touching on everything from shakedown cruises to long summer days in northern waters. They exchange stories of personal adventures, including sailing plans in Aberdeenshire and Shetland's nearly perpetual daylight. Meanwhile, a lighthearted chat on sailing etiquette turns into a discussion of recent scandals on the political front, reminding us of the dynamic nature of news. The episode ends with intriguing anecdotes about orca encounters and the unconventional tactics sailors employ to deter these marine giants.

Rory and regular guest Mark Thompson swing the lamp after sailing Bucephalus 500 miles from the Forth in Scotland to the Solent in England.

Thor is still in Shetland while Rory is almost ready for a re-location voyage to the Solent.

Thor is getting lunch ready in Shetland and Rory is making voyage preparations while swinging the lamp over canal transits and fishing economics.

Tam Laird, leader of the Scottish Libertarians, explores the intersection of politics and personal identity in an engaging podcast aboard Bucephalus moored in Fife. Initially aligned with the Scottish National Party, Laird dissociated himself due to its pro-European stance, finding instead a more fitting ideological home within libertarian principles. Despite his anarchist leanings, he works actively within a minarchist framework, seeking practical reductions in government size and influence. His personal journey reflects a complex relationship with politics, embracing activism not for career motives but as a means to advocate for liberty amid Scotland's shifting political landscape.

Rory tells Thor about his voyage from Eyemouth to the Forth and how some awesome friends helped him out in some unexpected ways.

This podcast episode covers a diverse range of topics, including the experiences of a comedian dealing with unexpected audience reactions, the rising cost of living impacting everyday people, and reflections on recent inflation trends. The conversation reveals an unexpected twist at a comedy show, where a spectator disrupts the performance over a perceived offence. Rory and Thor discuss the economic strain felt worldwide, highlighting issues like skyrocketing food and fuel prices. Despite the challenges, there remains a focus on learning from experiences and finding humour in everyday life.

In this enlightening podcast episode, Kate Cope shares her captivating journey from a landlocked childhood to becoming an accomplished sailor and racer. Cope's enthusiasm for sailing, which began in her 30s during an impulsive Greek holiday, transformed her life as she pursued open ocean adventures and competitive racing. Listeners will appreciate her tales of sailing the Atlantic, competing in the rigorous Fastnet Race, and the camaraderie built along the way. Her story serves as an inspiring testament to the accessibility of sailing and the spirit of adventure, even for those who start later in life.

In this episode, Thor and Rory dive into the nautical challenges faced at Port Edgar Marina, discussing the mysterious source of water on board and the intricacies of marine maintenance. As they troubleshoot issues from WiFi to engine troubles, they also touch on broader political themes like the US-Iran relations and the financial implications of peace talks. Amid the nautical discourse, they compare the costs of rail travel, reflecting on the extravagance of first-class experiences and the economic constraints of spontaneous journeys. The episode promises insights and humour in the world of sailing and beyond.

Amidst technical setbacks, the Rory and Thor delve into boating stories, sharing updates on their ventures and technological advancements in their sailing experiences. They reminisce about the Canary Islands' allure while revealing their ambition for a transatlantic journey. As the Middle East unfolds into conflict, travel plans are reevaluated, highlighting the unforeseen consequences on flight paths and international travel. The hosts further engage with their audience through a poll predicting the conflict's duration, emphasising concerns of seasoned professionals whose insights provide a comprehensive view of how ongoing geopolitical strife influences the broader narrative of their maritime adventures.

Explore the dynamic and fascinating world of ship pilotage in this podcast episode set in Scotland's Aberdour Boat Club. Rory shares his insights into what it means to be a ship pilot, detailing their responsibilities, training, and the essential role they play in safely manoeuvring massive vessels through tricky maritime terrain. The conversation is peppered with humorous maritime anecdotes, illustrating the rich and sometimes light-hearted culture among seafarers. This episode is a deep dive into the blend of precision, local expertise, and camaraderie that defines the profession, making a compelling case for its ongoing importance.

In this podcast episode, Rory and Thor are joined by former British diplomat Alex Parsons to delve into the geopolitical tensions unfolding between the US and Iran. With speculation of an imminent strike by the US, they explore potential responses from Iran, including the possibility of Iran targeting US naval assets or merchant ships. The discussion touches on internal US political dynamics, the strategic implications in the Middle East, and the role of oil prices. The episode also scrutinises the concept of 'regimes' versus 'governments,' questioning the international double standards applied to different nations based on strategic interests.

In this episode, Rory and Mark Thompson discuss the intriguing delay of a Scottish ferry currently docked in Almeria, Spain. Having departed from Gibraltar over a week ago, the ferry faced inclement weather off Morocco before diverting to Spain. Initial speculations included crew rotations or poor weather conditions. However, new information casts doubt on these explanations, hinting at possible technical issues. The hosts explore various theories and speculate about administrative inefficiencies and potential political manoeuvres behind this taxpayer-funded vessel's prolonged stay in Spain.

This episode takes listeners from the sunny horizons of Texas to the bleak Scottish weather, through a conversation between two friends passionate about sailing. Rory and Thor discuss the quest for innovative sailing technologies like forward-facing echo sounders and their potential benefits. The conversation also steers towards a contentious ferry voyage fraught with delays and detours, all underpinned by union rules and global geopolitics. From evocative descriptions of sea states to a tongue-in-cheek proposal for union leaders taking political reins, this discussion is an insightful melding of sailing wisdom, political critique, and genuine camaraderie.

Join Thor and Rory as they converse across time zones, discussing cultural observations and experiences from Texas to Scotland. Thor, stationed at a family friend's expansive Texan property, recounts warm adventures in America and an unexpectedly friendly welcome at Austin's airport. Rory, on the other hand, corrects some factual missteps from previous episodes while enduring Scotland's unforgiving weather and preparing for his talk at Aberdour boat club. Together, they humorously address serious topics like political scandals and the global influence of Western leaders. With a seamless blend of jovial banter and poignant reflections, the two hosts craft a richly entertaining dialogue that traverses from casual observations to profound inquiries.

Thor and Rory discuss whether the Golden Globe Race was really the "Maintenance nace Race" and wonder whether it's fair to boycott the USA world cup.

Thor and Rory tackle the thorny issues of out of control dogs and dodgy parking and wonder why so many people struggle to say 'sorry'.

Thor and Rory debate the merits of a family sailing adventure and whether an upbringing sailing around the world is riskier than living in a house with a trampoline in the garden.

This episode kicks off 2026 by intertwining personal anecdotes with broader social commentaries. Rory reflects on a surprising wake-up call from an innocuous New Year's Day activity, prompting a healthier lifestyle. Thor and Rory debate the potential ramifications of replacing ferries with bridges or tunnels on Scottish islands, arguing for the preservation of traditional ways and jobs. The discussion is set against the backdrop of beautiful yet challenging Scottish winters, exploring how climate change plays a role in this new year. Through it all, the episode provides a captivating blend of humour, reflection, and earnest dialogue.

In this episode, Thor and Rory discuss plans for celebrating New Year's Eve with a trip to Prague. The conversation humorously delves into the naming confusion of Czechia and classic Cold War references. With a nod to the Scottish celebration of Hogmanay, there's a somber reflection on recent tragic events during a Christmas swim in Cornwall. The episode takes a critical turn with discussion about safety at sea, where opinions clash between libertarian freedom and responsibility towards others, highlighting the potential consequences of neglecting safety for social media attention.

The episode dives into the complexities of friendships formed during intense experiences like sailing voyages. Thor and Rory reflect on the shipmate bonds they form, sharing stories about sailors who have touched their lives, including one named Neil, whose tragic story sheds light on the challenges of loneliness. The hosts also ponder the effectiveness of modern digital communication, particularly WhatsApp, in maintaining friendships. Despite the serious undertones, they reminisce about laughter and camaraderie during an RYA sailing course, exploring how fleeting social interactions can sometimes leave lasting impressions, even if they fade into distant memories over time.

Rory and Thor are joined by Martin Vander Weyer, the business editor of the Spectator and described by Boris Johnson as the most oracular and entertaining financial journalist in London. They reminisce about Scotland’s football success in the 1970s, with stories involving Hampden Park's infamous 'hot leg' experiences. The episode shifts to economic discussions, evaluating the impacts of current tax policies on various sectors, including the oil industry and banking, debating the merits and demerits of income taxation, and contrasting Hong Kong's laissez-faire legacy with Scotland's current economic strategies.

Rory tells Thor about his contribution to the "war on drugs" while Thor has an exciting update on the Shetland Distillery.

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