Episodios

  • 14. Thirty years of living in Svalbard with Hilde Fålun Strøm

    14. Thirty years of living in Svalbard with Hilde Fålun Strøm
    Mar 5 2026
    Sue Stockdale speaks with Arctic expedition leader Hilde Fålun Strøm about her unique experiences living in Svalbard and her commitment to conservation. Hilda shares insights on the challenges of enduring 24-hour darkness, her transformative 19-month stay in a trapper's cabin during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of routine and adaptation in extreme environments.

    The conversation also explores Hilda's role in promoting sustainable tourism, polar bear protection, and climate change awareness as godmother to an expedition cruise ship.

    Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the Arctic's natural beauty, its rapidly changing climate, and the pivotal role individuals can play in conservation efforts.

    Time Stamps

    02:04 19 Months in a Trapper's Cabin
    04:42 Impact of the Experience on Perspective
    05:40 Expedition Cruising and Wildlife Observation
    10:16 Climate Change in Svalbard
    13:03 Polar Bear Protection and Education
    19:23 Final Thoughts

    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    22 m
  • 13. Citizen Science & Responsible Expedition Cruising with Anthony Daniels

    13. Citizen Science & Responsible Expedition Cruising with Anthony Daniels
    Feb 5 2026
    Anthony Daniels, UK and Ireland General Manager, Ponant and Chair of the Expedition Cruise Network, joins host Sue Stockdale to discuss the evolution of expedition cruises from uncomfortable, science-led ships to today's more comfortable and engaging experiences.

    Topics covered include the growing interest in citizen science, community involvement, the appeal to solo travellers, and the strict environmental guidelines that govern expedition cruises. Anthony also highlights popular destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic, and warm water locations like the Galapagos, emphasising the importance of responsible travel.

    Time Stamps
    02:01 Evolution of the Expedition Cruise Industry
    03:32 Understanding Expedition Cruises
    05:17 Citizen Science on Expedition Cruises
    11:00 Solo Travel and Community Engagement
    15:34 Popular Expedition Destinations
    20:23 Responsible Travel and Environmental Impact

    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    25 m
  • 12. Life Among Penguins with Jean Pennycook

    12. Life Among Penguins with Jean Pennycook
    Jan 8 2026
    Host Sue Stockdale talks to Jean Pennycook, an expert on wildlife with a special focus on penguins. Jean shares her experiences living in a tent on Ross Island, Antarctica, monitoring penguin colonies.
    She discusses the study of penguins, their adaptability to the harsh environment, and her role in citizen science projects. Jean also emphasises the importance of protecting the Antarctic ecosystem.

    Additionally, she provides insights into her work in the Arctic and highlights the significant changes in expedition tourism and polar environments over the years.

    Time Stamps
    00:35 Life in Antarctica: Living Among Penguins
    02:45 Studying Penguins: Research and Observations
    04:53 Connecting Classrooms to Antarctica
    05:48 Inspiring Guests on Expedition Cruises
    13:15 Arctic Adventures: Contrasts and Comparisons
    16:06 Citizen Science: Engaging the Public
    19:53 Environmental Changes and Tourism Impact

    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    28 m
  • 11. Wildlife encounters in Antarctica with Billy Heaney

    11. Wildlife encounters in Antarctica with Billy Heaney
    Dec 4 2025
    Sue Stockdale interviews wildlife presenter Billy Heaney who discusses his early fascination with wildlife introduced through films and his grandparents, leading to a career as a wildlife presenter and filmmaker. They delve into his experiences guiding tours in places like the Hebrides and Antarctica, highlighting memorable encounters with wildlife such as eagles, dolphins, and whales. Billy shares practical tips for spotting wildlife, the value of observation over photography, and the importance of being prepared for unpredictable weather and experiences during expedition cruises.

    Chapters
    02:05 From University to Wildlife Guiding
    03:15 Adventures in Scotland
    04:55 The Magic of Wildlife Encounters
    09:50 First Expedition to Antarctica
    18:42 The Journey across the Drake Passage
    22:55 Tips for Aspiring Wildlife Enthusiasts
    26:58 Upcoming Adventures and Final Thoughts

    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    31 m
  • 10. Experiencing Solo Travel with Sue White and Andy Harmer

    10. Experiencing Solo Travel with Sue White and Andy Harmer
    Nov 6 2025
    Sue Stockdale delves into the empowering world of solo travel with guests Sue White and Andy Harmer. Sue White shares her transition from an accidental solo traveler to an avid explorer, highlighting her adventures in Barbados and Cambodia. She emphasizes the liberation and self-discovery that solo journeys can offer.

    Andy Harmer, a seasoned traveller and cruise expert, recounts his first solo expedition cruise to Antarctica. He discusses the unique environment of expedition cruising, how it fosters connections among travellers, and its suitability for those venturing solo. Both guests give practical advice and insights on overcoming the challenges and maximizing the joys of solo travel.

    Time Stamps

    01:04 Sue White: Accidental Solo Traveller
    03:15 Navigating Safety and Local Culture
    07:15 Practical Tips for Solo Travellers
    13:32 Andy Harmer: Solo Voyage to Antarctica
    15:28 Connecting with Fellow Travellers
    18.07 The Expedition Cruise Experience
    19:00 Overcoming Solo Travel Challenges
    23:33 Advice for Aspiring Solo Travelers
    24:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts



    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    27 m
  • 09. Inside the Ice: A Glaciologist’s View of a Melting World with Leo Decaux

    09. Inside the Ice: A Glaciologist’s View of a Melting World with Leo Decaux
    Oct 1 2025
    Glaciologist and polar expedition guide Leo Decaux takes us inside the heart of the ice. Based in Svalbard, Leo spends his days exploring the inner workings of glaciers—traversing ice tunnels, collecting data, and unlocking the secrets of our planet’s climate story.

    He also guides on expedition cruises through Antarctica and the Arctic, helping guests witness the polar regions with scientific insight and deep respect. Join host Sue Stockdale as Leo shares what it’s like to live in extreme cold, work beneath the surface, and stay curious in a world that’s rapidly changing.

    Time Stamps
    00:17 Meet Leo Co: Glaciologist and Expedition Guide
    01:04 Life and Work in the Arctic
    02:04 Understanding Glaciers and Their Impact
    02:58 Exploring Svalbard: A Visual Journey
    05:54 The Science of Glaciology
    09:10 Field Research and Data Collection
    12:35 Challenges and Discoveries in Glaciology
    19:29 Guiding Expeditions in Polar Regions
    26:36 Living in Svalbard: Daily Life and Practicalities
    29:15 The Importance of Polar Regions
    31:19 Looking Ahead: Future Plans



    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    31 m
  • 08. Greenland through the eyes of a guide with Bettina Ovgaard

    08. Greenland through the eyes of a guide with Bettina Ovgaard
    Sep 4 2025
    Sue Stockdale speaks with Greenland expedition guide Bettina Ovgaard, whose decades of experience living and working in the Arctic have given her a deep understanding of this extraordinary land. Bettina shares stories of unexpected detours, ancient Norse ruins, and the powerful silence that defines Greenland’s landscape. She offers a thoughtful perspective on guiding with respect: for nature, for local culture, and for each traveller’s unique experience.

    If you’re curious about what it really feels like to explore Greenland, this episode is a masterclass in how to travel with humility and awe.

    Time Stamps
    00:51 Bettina's Journey to Becoming a Guide
    02:09 The Allure of Greenland's Landscape
    03:29 Guiding in Greenland: A Unique Perspective
    07:47 Unexpected Adventures in Greenland
    12:10 The Rich Diversity of Greenland
    13:47 Surprises and Silence: First-Time Travellers' Impressions
    15:13 Interacting with Greenland's Communities
    17:09 Preparing for Greenland's Climate
    18:35 Memorable Moments and Final Advice

    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    24 m
  • 07. Discovering the Kimberley: Australia’s Hidden Wilderness with Oli Oldroyd

    07. Discovering the Kimberley: Australia’s Hidden Wilderness with Oli Oldroyd
    Aug 7 2025
    Sue Stockdale talks to Oli Oldroyd of True North Adventures, to get an insider's perspective on the vast, remote, and breathtaking Kimberley region of Northwest Australia. They discuss the region’s unique landscapes, abundant wildlife and rich heritage. Oli shares personal experiences from his expeditions, detailing the immersive activities such as helicopter rides, waterfall showers, and fishing adventures that make Kimberley an unparalleled destination. The conversation also touches on the crew's role in enhancing the visitor experience and sustainable practices to preserve this pristine natural environment.

    Time Stamps
    00:59 Discovering the Kimberley: Location and Access
    02:28 True North Adventures: Vessels and Experiences
    04:28 The allure of the Kimberley: Natural Beauty and Activities
    05:37 Oli's First Encounter with the Kimberley
    07:30 Unforgettable Sites: Montgomery Reef and Prince Regent River
    11:20 Sustainability and comfort onboard ship



    Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or jane@authentictravelcompany.com

    Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company

    Producer: Sue Stockdale
    Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
    Más Menos
    20 m