Notes on Vulnerability

Ian Finch (Insta: @ianefinch @walkwilduk) is a photographer, expedition guide and poetry-writing former Marine Commando. After a life changing sickness at high altitude he was forced to explore new paths in life and began an adventure into wildness. Today he leads guided walks in secret corners of London and Herts, as well as life coaching in nature - and planning new, epic expeditions post-COVID.

In this episode vulnerability comes up in the context of extreme environments, emotional challenges, authentic self expression and the definition of courage. We cover the highs and lows of expedition life, the definition of wildness, being an introvert and accepting yourself as that (especially in a macho work atmosphere), tackling self doubt and facing up to the challenges of creativity that never sleeps.

Wim Hof, woolly hats, free the nipple and numb extremities... wild swimming and cold water swimming make up one huge trend right now. But what is it really like to get up at 6am and plunge yourself into the freezing cold of a sea, lake or pond? In this episode I'm talking to Hen and Claudia - the @wildswimgirls (Insta). From 6am Stockholm swims to accidental rock climbing in Cornwall and the science of just doing it badly we're covering all the adventures and challenges that making this part of your life entails - as well as getting some awesome advice from (pretty much) the professionals. 

Just a note: we reference a study about cold water and dementia as being carried out with the Serpentine swimmers but it was actually the Parliament Hill swimmers (sorry guys).

In this podcast we’re talking to Danny Kearney (@solarpoweredbadger), ex-forces and now professional trainer and an ambassador for @operation_waitout and @mentalhealthswims. 

We’re focusing on vulnerability and how what is sometimes perceived as weakness is actually often a strength. From the army and how the training impacts mental health, to being a dad, cold water swimming, suicide, climbing mountains and coping with shame nothing is off the table.

If you identify with the issues in this podcast and you feel like you need some help you can contact the Samaritans - email ([email protected]) or call 116 123.

In this first episode of Notes on Vulnerability we speak to Anika, an American living in Holland who once made her living as a naked model and, thanks to the Internet, finds that this follows her wherever she goes.