Explore every episode of the podcast Talk of the Thames
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paddle London: The Thames from Water Level with Anu Aladin | 15 May 2026 | 00:39:25 | |
What changes when you see London from the water? In this episode of Talk of the Thames, Chloe Russell speaks with author and paddleboarder Anu Aladin (@mysupstories) about her new book Paddle London - a guide to 40 paddle routes across London’s rivers, canals, docks and reservoirs. After more than a decade of paddling in the capital, Anu describes the Thames as a place of local adventure, hidden nature and moving meditation. From early morning paddles under Hammersmith Bridge to fish surveys at Syon Park’s tidal meadow, this conversation explores what stand-up paddleboarding reveals about London’s waterways - and why the Thames deserves to be better protected, celebrated and understood. Together, Chloe and Anu discuss Blue Mind, river wildlife, access to the water, responsible paddling, tides, soundscapes, safety, sewage, community, and the joy of discovering wilderness closer than you think. __________________ | |||
| The Curators Behind London Museum: Secrets of the Thames | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:44:02 | |
The Thames is a time capsule—and mudlarks are the storytellers. Join Chloe at the London Museum for Secrets of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures. With curators Kate Sumnall and Thomas Ardill, we uncover extraordinary objects lost and found on the foreshore, from ancient tools to modern relics. A must-listen for history lovers, Londoners, and anyone curious about what the river reveals. __________________ | |||
| Paddleboarding London: An Immersive Journey along the Thames | 08 Jun 2023 | 00:49:50 | |
Welcome back to a truly immersive episode of "Talk of the Thames"! On this special occasion of World Ocean Day, join us on a captivating journey along the River Thames, as we explore the beauty and wonder of London from the perspective of a paddleboarder. To achieve the full benefit of this immersive episode, we highly recommend listening to this episode with headphones on, in a quiet place. | |||
| Building a Sustainable Future: An Inside Look with Richard Aylard, Sustainability Director at Thames Water | 17 Mar 2023 | 00:58:45 | |
In this episode of Talk of the Thames, Sustainability Director Richard Aylard discusses his journey, the Thames Tideway Tunnel project and Thames Water's global efforts to combat climate change. The Thames Tideway Tunnel is a vital infrastructure project that aims to improve the health of the River Thames by preventing millions of tonnes of untreated sewage from overflowing into the river each year. Richard explains the reasoning behind the tunnel, drawing us back to The Great Stink, and tells us about future prospects of the tunnel's design including sensors. | |||
| In Conversation with Giles Tofield from The Cultural Engine | 17 Feb 2023 | 00:43:40 | |
Back after a short break, we bring Giles Tofield to the stage to talk to us about his work at The Cultural Engine. In this episode we explore what projects The Cultural Engine have worked on, including the North Thames Fisheries Local Action Group (NTFLAG) programme which TEP was involved in; what the future has in store; and the value of storytelling within community and local economy led projects. | |||
| Blue Connections: Our Pilot Training Project | 28 Oct 2022 | 00:49:00 | |
What is the Blue Connections project? In todays episode we're joined by our Technical Director Amy Pryor, Data and Training Manager Wanda Bodnar, and Learning and Engagement Manager Yomi Odunlami, who are leading the project. Find out how and why Blue Connections arose within Thames Estuary Partnership and how they plan to unveil the project to new participants. | |||
| Totally Thames Festival 2022: Join Us On Our Guided Tour and Sound Walk at the Greenwich Peninsula | 30 Sep 2022 | 00:35:14 | |
Come and join us for an immersive guided walk around the Greenwich Peninsula as we explore the lesser-known environmental past and present of London's famous river. This episode was recorded on 17th September on our 'A short intro to the Thames Estuary - guided walk' event as part of the Totally Thames Festival. ____________________ | |||
| In Conversation with Lara Maiklem, River Thames Mudlarker and Author | 08 Sep 2022 | 00:39:52 | |
Have you noticed people on the foreshore of the River Thames with their heads down searching for something? Have you ever wondered what they could possibly find? In this episode we address what this activity is - it is none other than mudlarking! And we have none other than River Thames mudlarking enthusiast Lara Maiklem telling us about all things mudlarking. | |||
| In Conversation with Kelly Sporn, Sustainability Lawyer and Postgraduate Student at Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership | 15 Jul 2022 | 00:42:15 | |
Join us for another exciting episode of Talk of The Thames where we chat with Kelly Sporn, Sustainability Lawyer and Post Graduate Student at Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership. In this conversation we learn about what Kelly gets up to as a Sustainability Lawyer, how she became interested in the field, and the challenges she and other Sustainability Lawyers face. We also learn about the exciting and prestigious Master of Studies in Sustainability Leadership at the Cambridge Institute that Kelly is half way in completing. | |||
| In Conversation with Dr. Wallace J Nichols, Author of 'Blue Mind' | 17 Jun 2022 | 00:36:50 | |
Have you heard of the term 'blue mind'? Perhaps it's something you are all too familiar with unconsciously, and never thought about before. Do you enjoy being in, around, near, or under water? There is ample amount of research telling us why that could be the case. Join us as we speak with Author Dr. Wallace J Nichols about his research of why being around water makes us happier and more connected. | |||
| The Success Stories of The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project | 21 May 2022 | 01:31:30 | |
Join us for a special episode released on World Fish Migration Day about The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project. We are joined by six organisations in total, Thames Rivers Trust who led the project, Action for the River Kennet, South East Rivers Trust, Thames21, Zoological Society of London and Thames Estuary Partnership. This huge collaboration was driven to aid the long-term survival of the European eel. The result of this two year project has been useful for opening up dialogue with the Environment Agency (EA) when prioritising barriers; useful for collecting citizen science data for discovering unrecorded barriers; and for bringing in a sense of community and camaraderie within local areas including school workshops. With special thanks to our guests speakers, listed in chronological order of speaking in the episode, Anna Forbes at Thames Rivers Trust, Jess Mead at The South East Rivers Trust, Philly Nicholls at Thames21, Mia Riddler at Action for the River Kennet, Azra Glover at Zoological Society of London, and Wanda Bodnar at Thames Estuary Partnership. To find out more information about the project, visit https://www.thamesriverstrust.org.uk/thames-catchment-community-eels-project/ To see the Fish Migration Map and gif, visit https://fishroadmap.london/ | |||
| Fish Local Introduces The Silver Shore Herring | 17 Apr 2022 | 00:58:06 | |
On today’s episode we’re joined by Jesse Seaward, Partner at Band Agency and Ollie Jackson, Co-Founder of 100 Tons of Plastic and son of ex-fisherman Merlin Jackson, as they discuss their recent project of promoting a local fish species as part of Fish Local. This discussion includes all the project’s processes including the selection process, finding the most sustainable and highest yield species, finding the fitting name the 'Silver Shore Herring', and what this project means for the fishing industry. The core working group for promoting the local species include - Fish Local is an initiative by Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA). Follow #FishLocalFB Use #FishLocalFB on social media posts to join with the community To find out more about Fish Local, visit https://fishlocal.org/ ____________________ | |||
| Mapping the Ocean: How Art, Play and Technology Are Reimagining Our Blue Planet | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:41:32 | |
Step into the world’s first public Spilhaus projection ocean map with presenter Chloe Russell in this special World Ocean Day episode of Talk of the Thames. Recorded at the newly reopened Ocean Hall at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, this episode features an immersive walking interview with curators Tim May and Aimee Mook. Together, they explore ocean literacy, underwater ecosystems, and the power of play in environmental storytelling—from tiger sharks with cameras to coconut crabs, seagrass meadows, and underwater volcanoes. This episode blends science communication, creative technology, and ocean advocacy to remind us that our relationship with water extends far beyond the Thames—and across the globe. Perfect for listeners interested in: ocean science, museums, environmental storytelling, public engagement, climate communication, art-meets-science, World Ocean Day 2025. __________________ | |||
| The Role of the Architect in the Estuarine/Coastal Space: In Conversation with Thames Estuary Partnership CE Heather Hilburn about her FRIBA Award | 17 Mar 2022 | 00:49:16 | |
Join us as celebrate the successes of Thames Estuary Partnership's Executive Director Heather Hilburn, as she has been awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects Honorary Fellowships Award 2022. Heather is well placed to help us build a strong partnership across many disciplines, sectors and communities and ensure our work is investment ready." - Victoria Borwick, Chair, Thames Estuary Partnership ____________________ | |||
| What is the State of the Thames? With Alison Debney at Zoological Society of London | 17 Feb 2022 | 00:36:27 | |
What lives in the Thames? From the things we can see like seals and crabs to the invisible elements like oxygen and nitrate. Find out why the Thames has that signature brown colour and why it is actually a good thing! This episode is all about the recently published State of the Thames Report 2021 by the Zoological Society of London and we are greeted with the lovely and knowledgeable Alison Debney, ZSL's Senior Conservation Programme Manager to tell us all about it. Hosted by our new podcast producer Chloe Russell. | |||
| Climate Change in London: The future and hopes for COP26 | 17 Jan 2022 | 01:02:11 | |
Join us as Amy Pryor, Technical Director at the Thames Estuary Partnership, talks to Kristen Guida, Manager at the London Climate Change Partnership about what impacts we can expect climate change to have in London, and beyond, as well as their hopes and vision for COP26 before the event took place. | |||
| Estuary Edges Fish Surveys | 01 Oct 2021 | 00:21:25 | |
Join fisheries expert Steve Colclough as he discusses the fish species found in the nets at Point Wharf Estuary Edges site. | |||
| Totally Thames 2021 | 26 Aug 2021 | 00:31:22 | |
It's September. There's regattas everywhere. That can only mean one thing... It's Totally Thames time! | |||
| What's Eely Going On? Thames Catchment Community Eels Project | 30 Jul 2021 | 00:36:49 | |
We had an 'elver' time chatting to the partners involved in this amazing project aimed at reviving the iconic European eel. Learn about the eels lifecycle and impressive migration journey to the Thames! Fancy getting involved? Visit https://www.thamesriverstrust.org.uk/thames-catchment-community-eels-project/ for more information on how. | |||
| World Ocean Day 2021 | 04 Jun 2021 | 00:40:10 | |
We explore this year's World Ocean Day theme, The Ocean: Lives and Livelihoods, in our latest episode of Talk of the Thames. | |||
| SEALife in the Thames | 29 Apr 2021 | 00:55:16 | |
After the tragic dog attack on Freddie the seal that happened on the Thames foreshore in March, we have invited three special guests. | |||
| World Water Day | 31 Mar 2021 | 00:29:34 | |
Where does the water in our taps come from? How will climate change affect water resources in London? In this episode Richard Aylard, a Director at Thames Water talks about this finite resource. Richard gives his top tips on how to save water at home and give wildlife a helping hand. | |||
| River Remedy | 26 Feb 2021 | 00:29:50 | |
Our guest is marine social scientist Dr Emma McKinley from Cardiff University who talks about our relationships with rivers and estuaries. Emma also talks about how reconnecting with our coastal regions can prove to be positive for both our mental and physical wellbeing, along with ocean recovery. | |||
| Nature’s Greatest Mystery: The Story of the Eel | 16 May 2025 | 00:42:04 | |
In this special Talk of the Thames episode for World Eel Day, presenter Chloe Russell is joined by Andrew Kerr, Chairman of the Sustainable Eel Group, to uncover one of the most extraordinary and mysterious stories in the natural world — the life cycle and survival of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla). 🧭 From diving deeper than nuclear submarines to travelling 7,000km without eating, eels have a life journey unlike any other. 🐍 But with their population down by over 90%, this critically endangered species is now at the heart of a major conservation fight. Andrew and Chloe discuss:
💬 Plus: why saving the eel might also save our rivers, wetlands, and water systems. 🌍 More eel content is coming! Although World Eel Day falls on Friday 16th May, we’ll be sharing more stories, facts, and interviews beyond this week — follow us Thames Estuary Partnership and stay tuned. 🎧 Want more? Check out our earlier episode from World Fish Migration Day about the Thames Catchment Community Eels Project, where six amazing organisations came together to reconnect rivers and communities for eel recovery. 🔗 Useful links: 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk of the Thames for more inspiring stories from the river’s edge. __________________ #EelWeek2025 #WorldEelDay #TalkOfTheThames #EuropeanEel #RiverRestoration #WaterwaysMatter #NatureConnectivity #SustainableEelGroup #AndrewKerr #ChloeRussell #ThamesEstuaryPartnership | |||
| Tideway Tunnel: London's Super Sewer | 29 Jan 2021 | 00:34:40 | |
In this episode our guest is Tideway Chief Executive Officer, Andy Mitchell CBE, who talks about the UK water industry's biggest-ever infrastructure project - the Thames Tideway Tunnel. | |||
| A Thames Carol | 14 Dec 2020 | 01:11:00 | |
Sit back, relax and get transported back to a Victorian Christmas by the River Thames. In this episode you can find out what a Dickensian Christmas would have been like in the heart of London and how Dickens himself viewed the River Thames. | |||
| Thames Tides | 26 Nov 2020 | 00:38:53 | |
Ever wondered why the Thames is brown? Or how the tides work? It’s the physical and geographical properties that help make the Thames so productive and therefore valuable for wildlife. In this episode, our guest is John Baugh, a Technical Director at HR Wallingford, who discusses the ins and outs of the Thames tides. | |||
| London Rivers Week 2020 | 27 Oct 2020 | 00:40:10 | |
Celebrating London Rivers Week 2020, this episode features a collaboration of four environmental experts from organisations working across London, discussing the main messages of London Rivers Week. Topics include: habitat restoration and green infrastructure, health and wellbeing, and the successful return of species into the estuary. | |||
| London's Plastic Bottle Crisis | 29 Sep 2020 | 00:29:28 | |
Plastic drink bottles and their lids are one of the top ten items found in the Thames. In this episode, our guests are the #OneLess campaign team talking about their amazing work cleaning up plastic water bottles from around the Thames and their goal to make London a single-use plastic water bottle free city. | |||
| London and Flooding | 18 Aug 2020 | 00:40:01 | |
Our guest is Laura Littleton from TE2100 - the Environment Agency department planning to manage tidal flood risk in the Thames Estuary until the year 2100. Laura explains what the future holds for some of London's major flood defences and the work TE2100 are doing to empower communities and stakeholders from across the Thames. | |||
| Thames Archaeology | 14 Jul 2020 | 00:53:34 | |
This month we are in conversation with archaeologist, Dr Fiona Haughey. Fiona is a Thames archaeology expert and has been working on the river since 1993. In our latest podcast episode, Fiona talks about some of her most exciting finds, carbon dating historical objects and the importance of the Thames in the 20th century during the two world wars. | |||
| Wildlife Migration and the Thames | 26 May 2020 | 00:37:12 | |
Our first podcast episode features Chris Baines, renowned naturalist, broadcaster and honorary president of the Thames Estuary Partnership, as he talks about the Thames and discusses its importance for migratory wildlife. | |||
| People of the Thames: Songs, Treasures & Time | 02 Apr 2025 | 01:21:06 | |
This episode is the second in our new panel discussion series People of the Thames on Talk of the Thames, where we explore how different communities work, create, and engage with the river. Hosted by Chloe Russell, this series brings together experts, storytellers, and practitioners whose lives and work are directly tied to the Thames. In this panel, recorded aboard the working Theatreship in Canary Wharf, we explore the rich cultural and emotional connections people form with the Thames through art, music, history, and heritage. This is a conversation about creativity, community, and the personal stories that flow through the river’s current. 💡 What’s in this episode?
🎙️ Featuring: 🔹 Nicola White – Mudlark artist uncovering personal and historical narratives from Thames artefacts __________________ | |||
| People of the Thames: Working on the River | 24 Feb 2025 | 01:05:08 | |
This episode marks the launch of a new panel discussion series People of the Thames on Talk of the Thames, where we explore how different communities work, create, and engage with the river. Hosted by Chloe Russell, this series brings together experts, storytellers, and practitioners whose lives and work are directly tied to the Thames. Episode 1: People of the Thames: Working on the River 💡 What’s in this episode?
Featuring: __________________ | |||
| Cruise the Thames: Biodiversity, History, and Heritage | 28 Aug 2024 | 01:01:08 | |
Welcome to a special episode of Talk of Thames with your host, Chloe Russell. This week, we're taking you on an exclusive boat trip along the iconic River Thames, recorded live during the Totally Thames Festival 2023. Join our expert guides—Amy Pryor, Technical Director of Thames Estuary Partnership, Fisheries Expert Steve Colclough, and Thames Archaeologist Fiona Haughey—as they delve into the rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and hidden heritage of London's great river. | |||
| A Conversation with Steve Colclough - Guardian of the Thames Estuary (Part Two) | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:23:06 | |
Welcome back to the second part of our captivating journey beneath the surface of the Thames Estuary. In this episode, we're joined by a true guardian of these waters, Steve Colclough, Fisheries Scientist and Chair of the Estuarine & Marine Specialist Section at the Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM). We've moved our discussion from the riverbank to the riverside at Battersea Reach, where Steve provides invaluable insights into the world of marine and freshwater fisheries, as well as his extensive experience in protecting this unique ecosystem. We pose a series of thought-provoking questions to Steve, exploring his remarkable 40 year long career and his passion for preserving the biodiversity of the Thames Estuary. We uncover the challenges he's faced while conducting fish surveys, his innovative solutions and his ability to collaborate with a diverse array of stakeholders. From memorable discoveries to the environmental threats that fish populations face, we dive deep into the intricacies of the estuarine ecosystem. Steve shares his wisdom on sustainable fisheries management practices and the ever-evolving trends he's observed over the years. As the conversation unfolds, we also touch on the special concerns and conservation interests associated with particular fish species and habitats in the Thames Estuary. For those who harbour dreams of a career in marine and freshwater fisheries or environmental consultancy, Steve imparts his seasoned advice. And, as always, we conclude with a profound take-home message from our esteemed guest. So, join us at the tranquil Riverside at Battersea Reach as we learn from the river's guardian, Steve Colclough, and continue our exploration of the hidden world beneath the tides of the Thames Estuary. | |||
| Exploring the Hidden World Beneath the Thames Estuary (Part One) | 31 Oct 2023 | 00:19:44 | |
Welcome to the first part of our exhilarating journey, as we delve into the thriving underwater world beneath the Thames Estuary. Our adventure begins at Battersea Reach, just east of the River Wandle's mouth, where TEP's Data and Training Manager Wanda Bodnar guides us through the essential work being carried out in this unique estuarine environment. We start by uncovering the significance of Estuary Edges, an innovative approach to enhance biodiversity along the edges of the estuary. These man-made vegetated intertidal habitats act as crucial ecosystems for fish and other wildlife, rejuvenating the estuarine edges and promoting a healthier environment. | |||
| In Conversation with Author and Environmentalist, Dr. Jules Pretty | 31 Jul 2023 | 01:04:50 | |
Welcome back to another episode of Talk of the Thames. In this episode, we dive into the captivating world of sustainable living and explore ideas that can improve lives and inspire action with renowned environmentalist and author, Dr. Jules Pretty. In an era marked by interconnected crises of climate change, inequality, biodiversity loss and food-related health issues, Jules Pretty presents a compelling vision for reversing these challenges. Through a combination of scientific evidence and captivating storytelling, he guides us on a journey towards a sustainable and fulfilling existence. Join us as we engage in conversation with Dr. Jules Pretty, exploring how to transform our lives and communities, foster a deeper connection with nature and take meaningful action to create a more sustainable future. Get ready to be inspired, informed and empowered to embark on your own journey. | |||