In this podcast episode, I am delighted to welcome author Sinclair Mackay to discuss his captivating book on Winston Churchill, which delves into 90 meetings over Churchill's 90-year life. Our conversation covers Churchill's diverse roles and personal attributes, from his military valour to his romanticism, and even his encounters with notable figures like Einstein and Queen Elizabeth II. Sinclair shares how Churchill's fearless and multifaceted nature made him an extraordinary figure, one who continually adapted to monumental changes in society. We also touch on Churchill's lasting impact on today's world and the different generations' perceptions of him. It's a thoroughly engaging discussion filled with fun anecdotes and thought-provoking insights about one of history's most complex characters.

00:36 Churchill's Fascinating Encounters

01:07 Writing Style and Approach

02:14 Churchill's Relationships and Personal Life

04:42 Churchill's Military and Political Career

06:25 Churchill's Emotional Depth and Romanticism

10:52 Churchill's Social and Financial Challenges

14:42 Churchill's Diverse Friendships and Interests

15:32 Highclere Castle and Social Changes

16:09 Churchill's Lifespan and Historical Impact

18:26 Churchill's Fearlessness and Adventures

21:10 Churchill's Post-War Vision and Legacy

24:45 Churchill's Relationships and Influence

27:40 Reflections on Churchill's Complex Legacy

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

In this episode, I sit down with the immensely talented artist and illustrator, Lucy Clare Dunbar, at Highclere Castle. Lucy shares her journey into becoming an illustrator, influenced by her father's artistry, and her love for drawing from a young age. She discusses the challenges she faced, particularly losing her sight due to health issues, and how drawing became a form of therapy for her. 

Her sight eventually returned, giving her a profound appreciation for life. We delve into her book 'The Book of Gifts,' which combines her heartfelt sketches and words that reflect her personal experiences and hopes to uplift others. Lucy also talks about her creative family, her process of combining words with sketches, and how she draws inspiration from everyday moments and her beloved pets. Her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the importance of living in the present.

01:35 Lucy's Artistic Journey

02:00 Overcoming Adversity

03:43 Family of Artists

04:37 The Book of Gifts

06:42 The Creative Process

13:16 Love for Animals

16:18 Living in the Moment

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome one of my favorite historians, Alice Loxton, to the castle. We discuss her fascinating book 'Eighteen', which delves into the lives of historical figures when they were 18 years old. Alice shares her passion for medieval history and reveals how @history_alice came into being. We explore her unique approach to writing, imagining historical characters in modern settings to bring them to life. I was particularly intrigued by her diverse selection of characters, from Bede to Vivienne Westwood, and how she makes history accessible and engaging for everyone.

00:22 Exploring Historical Layers
01:04 The Book 'Eighteen' and Its Unique Approach
04:13 Diverse Historical Figures
09:49 Social Media and History
18:04 Writing and Research Process
25:37 Future Plans

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

In this episode, I sit down with aviation author Rowland White to discuss Geoffrey de Havilland's remarkable contributions to aviation, focusing on the iconic Mosquito plane. We explore de Havilland's early failures and eventual successes, including his innovative use of wood to construct aircraft. 
We also delve into personal stories connected to Highclere Castle and discuss
ongoing efforts to restore Mosquito planes to flying condition!

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

In my first podcast of the year, I am joined by my husband, to discuss reflections on the past year and hopes for the future. We talk about various personal and public topics including the challenges of the past year, changes in the weather, and updates from our lives.
We discuss the upcoming release of a third Downton Abbey film and chat about our gardening efforts, plans for hosting events at Highclere Castle, our gin production achievements, and hopes for our horses in training.
It is so important to maintain optimism and cherish moments of joy amidst ongoing global and personal challenges.

00:19 Reflecting on the Past Year
00:45 Weather and Hopes for the New Year
00:57 Downton Abbey Updates
03:08 Springtime in the Gardens
04:40 Memorial Garden
06:40 Highclere Castle Projects
08:01 Guided Tours and Exhibitions
09:10 Farming and Gin Production
14:57 Horse Breeding and Training
16:11 Life with Nine Dogs

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

My guest this month is Liz Earle, renowned for her iconic beauty products. Liz discusses her transition from running a beauty brand to writing about health and wellness. 
We talk about her latest book, which offers personal insights and practical advice for living a healthier and longer life, especially for midlife women. 
We explore topics like nutrition, gut health, the importance of social connections, and self-care. 
Liz also shares her personal journey, her passion for community, and her humanitarian work in Africa. 
The episode concludes with reflections on maintaining brain health, physical fitness, and the critical role of nourishment.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:30 Liz Earle's Journey in Beauty and Wellness
01:06 Writing and Living Well Longer
02:49 Challenges and Health Tips for Midlife Women
06:52 The Importance of Social Connections
11:30 Grounding and Connecting with Nature
14:42 Nutrition, Cooking, and Sustainable Living
19:18 Future Projects and Longevity Goals
21:01 Balancing Personal Life and Public Image
27:39 Conclusion and Farewell

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

My guest this month is a trusted and familiar broadcaster on all things medical. 
Best known for his regular TV appearances he's also no stranger to writing. But until recently his books have been strictly non-fiction. Now he's branched out into story-telling with his WWI novel, Frontline, published in September 2021. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with him. 

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

I'll let you listen to this edition of my podcast to find out exactly how I first met Tom, but suffice to say it has been a great joy to get to know him. Tom is a writer, actor, TV presenter but is perhaps best known as a stand-up comedian. These days he's rarely off the TV so it was fabulous that he found time to join me for a chat at the real Downton Abbey!

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

Joining me at the real Downton Abbey for this month's podcast is the author Veronica Henry. Veronica has written more than twenty bestselling novels having started her career as a script writer in TV and Radio. Her latest book is called 'The Secret Beach' - a perfect read as we bid farewell to summer. 

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.

For this month's podcast I had planned to take a walk through a few rooms at the real Downton Abbey with our castle manager John. Whether it was the heat of the day or the lively conversation we only made it to one room! John has been at Highclere Castle for almost twenty years and this was a chance to look back on the many achievements we've celebrated during that time. The title of this podcast was our first major project. 

You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/

New episodes are published on the first day of every month.