Clara welcomes back TikTok sensation and fashion influencer Victor Kunda for a soulful chat filled with sun, sea and sweet treats. From jumping into the ocean for the first time in Croatia to dancing at sunset on a yacht to Tame Impala, Victor shares how travel transforms him and why water, in all its moods, keeps him grounded. We also hear about his secret stash of Nigerian sweets, his aversion to decanting skincare, and the one travel hack that genuinely floored Clara.

If you’ve ever debated hand luggage versus giant suitcases, you’ll feel right at home in this playful back-and-forth. And as the first season of Routes from LNER comes to a close, Clara has arrived at her final stop...but who's that entering the carriage?

Trust us, it’s a journey and a new host worth tuning in for, Season 2 awaits - coming soon!

For our final main episode of Season 1, Clara travels through the vibrant life of Victor Kunda, the TikTok sensation and fashion world favourite whose storytelling flair and comic timing have won hearts across the internet. From his humble beginnings in Eltham to rubbing shoulders (literally) with Rihanna and lighting up the red carpet, Victor shares how performing has always been his escape and expression. Expect tales of uni-era noodles, red carpet run-ins, and a deep dive into his travels, from emotional moments in the favelas of Brazil to the ultimate goal of meeting the cast of Geordie Shore in Newcastle.

This episode is a proper blend of heart, humour and hustle, as Victor opens up about using laughter to process life’s lows, the pressure and power of social media, and how authenticity remains his north star. All aboard for a warm, witty, and wonderfully candid ride.

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Chapter Markers:

02:00 – Childhood, Comedy and Creating Joy. Victor reflects on growing up in Eltham, his early love of performance, and why making people laugh has always been his thing.

06:40 – Finding His Voice (and His Vibe). From school plays to singing siblings, we hear how Victor’s creative spark was always destined to shine.

08:50 – The Art of Performance and Personal Content. Victor shares how acting shapes his approach to social media — and why storytelling is at the heart of it all.

11:00 – Keeping It Real Online. On authenticity, humour and the responsibility of being a digital creator with a serious reach.

13:50 – Holidays, Margate and Making Do. Victor reminisces about humble family holidays and the magic of seaside trips growing up.

15:40 – Dirty December and the Power of Going Home. A deep dive into Nigerian roots, festive chaos, and what Victor really wants from travel.

20:30 – University Life and Lifelong Friendships. From instant noodles to unshakable bonds — Victor talks about lessons learned in Leicester.

23:40 – Viral Moments and That First Big Break. How breadsticks and banter kicked off a career — and the unexpected high of going viral.

26:30 – Fame, Followers and Staying Grounded. What happens when millions of people start watching — and how Victor keeps it human.

29:00 – Walking into Fashion’s Front Row. Victor’s surprise leap into the fashion world, and how it all started with a Snapchat call.

32:40 – Slim Thick Problems and Almost Walking for Off-White. When the trousers don’t fit but the moment still slaps — Victor’s near-catwalk moment in Paris.

34:50 – Brazil, Blackness and the Beauty of Favelas. A powerful reflection on identity, connection, and what Brazil taught Victor about the world.

39:30 – Snogging is a Greeting. Culture shocks, consent and kisses in Rio — a very Victor travel story.

41:20 – The Joy of the Geordie Accent. Why Newcastle’s calling, and how it all links back to Geordie Shore dreams.

43:00 – Final Thoughts and Future Travels. Fashion shoots in the Highlands to big dreams offline — Victor shares what’s next.

This week Clara gets comfy with magician Steven Frayne, better known as Dynamo, for a chat that’s part travel diary, part life philosophy, and all heart. They dive into his love of learning, fuelled by a childhood without a telly and a steady diet of library books and VHS tapes. Dynamo opens up about how reading still grounds him, and how his imagination was sparked by watching films he believed were documentaries. Turns out, not having a telly was the ultimate creative blessing.

From flat Yorkshire puddings to 99p sandwiches, Dynamo keeps it real when it comes to travel snacks and life on the road with Crohn’s. He shares his ultra-minimalist packing skills (hand luggage only, thank you very much), and how his dog is now officially part of the rider — complete with hoodie and all. There’s also a birthday cake made entirely of Yorkshire puddings, because of course there is.

And we couldn’t talk to Dynamo without getting into music. From his lifelong love of Linkin Park and hip-hop to the genius of Doja Cat and Hans Zimmer, his tastes are as eclectic as his tricks. He even made his own beats back in the day for a self-produced magic DVD (called Hip Hop Beats and Magic from Da Streets, no less). Add in a dash of Defiant Ones inspiration, some doggy travel tales, and a gentle reminder to pack light and live even lighter, and you’ve got a real feel-good ride on the Quiet Coach.

This week we're joined by someone who has quite literally made a career out of making the impossible possible — magician, storyteller, and performer Steven Frayne, aka Dynamo.

You probably know him from walking on water, levitating above London, or performing close-up magic for everyone from Prince Charles to Snoop Dogg. But in this episode, Steven opens up in a very different way. He shares the deeply personal journey that took him from a council estate in Bradford to the world stage — and back again.

Clara and Steven cover a lot: the challenges of growing up mixed race in a divided city, his battle with Crohn’s disease, rebuilding his life and identity after a major health scare, and how he’s rediscovered magic not just as performance, but as purpose.

They talk about Bradford’s cultural identity, youth clubs that helped shape his path, first holidays, how his wife came up with the name of his new live show (Up Close and Magical), and why he now performs not to impress, but to connect.

It’s thoughtful, funny, emotional, and full of real insight into what happens when the spotlight fades — and what it takes to step back into it on your own terms.

Whether you’re a long-time Dynamo fan or new to his story, this one’s a special listen.

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TW: This episode includes discussions about mental health and suicidal thoughts. If anything you hear brings something up for you, then please use some of the links below for support and to talk.

Call the Samaritans by calling 116 123 or emailing [email protected]

Check out CALM at  https://www.thecalmzone.net

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Chapter Markers:

02:00 – Back to Bradford. Steven reflects on what his hometown means to him today and how it shaped his resilience.

05:00 – Early Influences & First Breaks. From youth clubs and the Prince’s Trust to performing in Covent Garden and sofa surfing in London.

09:00 – From Streets to Soho. Steven’s early gigs in Soho, his unique style, and the beginnings of his career in nightclubs.

13:00 – Identity, Race & Belonging. A raw conversation about Steven’s cultural identity, growing up mixed race in Bradford, and hiding his heritage.

18:00 – Facing Illness & Rebuilding. The impact of Crohn’s disease, mental health struggles, and stepping away from Dynamo to focus on Steven.

21:00 – The Magic of Others. How everyday people and inspiring stories now shape Steven’s approach to magic and storytelling.

27:00 – Performing with Purpose. Why Steven’s work today is rooted in meaning, community, and connection — not ego.

31:00 – Magic, Escapism & Intimacy. On performing live again, the immersive nature of Up Close and Magical, and creating shared moments.

36:00 – Travel, First Holidays & Unexpected Inspiration. Steven’s first holiday, his early musical influences, and a life-changing school trip to Llandudno.

41:00 – Favourite Destinations & Dream Locations. From Glastonbury cottages to magical moments in San Miguel and New Orleans.

45:00 – Late Nights, Magic Studios & After-Parties. Behind the scenes at Dynamo’s studio, and midnight creativity.

47:30 – Looking Ahead. Clara wraps up with a final reflection on purpose, resilience, and the magic still to come.

In this week's Quiet Coach, Clara chats to the effortlessly cool Celeste. She reveals her ultimate way to switch off—ditching her phone completely while on holiday—and shares how trips to Morocco, Barbados, and especially Jamaica have shaped her perspective. Visiting her grandmother’s village in Jamaica was a life-changing moment, connecting her to her roots and the island’s rebellious spirit.

As a touring artist, Celeste has mastered the art of on-the-road survival, from snacking on cucumbers (yes, really) to avoiding cheese at all costs before a show. Her travel soundtrack is just as eclectic, ranging from The Rolling Stones to Ethiopian nun-turned-musician Miriam. Whether setting the mood for landing in a new city or reminiscing about childhood road trips, music is always her travel companion.

A self-confessed over-packer, Celeste hunts for quirky souvenirs—like an umbrella-shaped light from Paris—and fully embraces last-minute, unplanned adventures. She’s got strong opinions on the class divide in travel but one golden rule for jet lag: tough it out and stay awake until bedtime. Spontaneous, free-spirited, and always chasing new experiences, Celeste proves that travel is all about the journey, not just the destination.

This week Clara is joined by award-winning singer, songwriter, and creative powerhouse Celeste to chat about life, music, and the magic of travel. From her early days finding confidence in her voice to playing iconic venues and scoring Oscar nominations, Celeste takes us on a journey through her career highs, personal revelations, and the places that have shaped her.

Celeste reflects on growing up between Brighton and London, how moving to a more bohemian city influenced her creativity, and how an unexpected moment in college helped her discover the power of her voice. She talks about the thrill of performing her first paid gig, the excitement of taking the train to London with dreams of being discovered, and why public transport continues to inspire her.

She gives insight into the creative process behind her second album, how she is pushing herself artistically, and why she is determined to make this record truly her own. Celeste also shares her experience working on soundtracks for projects like Day of the Jackal and Pixar’s Soul, and why acting might be a bigger part of her future.

Tour life is on the agenda as she discusses the joy of live performance, what makes Scottish audiences so special, and why she is championing small music venues across the UK.

It is a warm, inspiring, and entertaining conversation with one of the UK’s most exciting voices. 

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Chapter Markers:

00:40 - Early Musical Moments – Celeste recalls the first time her singing made an impact.

01:40 - The Journey of 2025 So Far – Celeste shares insights on energy, focus, and personal growth.

03:00 - First Steps in Music – From early collaborations with Teeks to breaking into the industry.

06:00 - Growing Up in Brighton – Celeste’s childhood and the influence of her surroundings.

08:20 - An Inspirational Figure – A personal story about a trans woman named Sophie who inspired Celeste.

10:40 - Finding Confidence in Music – The moment Celeste realised the power of her voice.

13:20 - First Musical Travels – Celeste talks about her first gig and the experience of traveling for music.

16:40 - Performing in Scotland – A memorable gig at Barrowland Ballroom and the warmth of Scottish audiences.

18:40 - Taking a Step Back – How the pandemic forced a necessary pause in Celeste’s career.

22:40 - Unexpected Recognition in Cuba – Celeste shares a surprising fan moment abroad.

27:00 - The Beauty of Public Transport – How travel and people-watching inspire her music.

30:40 - Lending Her Voice to Film & TV – Working on soundtracks and understanding storytelling in music.

33:40 - Touring and Fan Interaction – What fans can expect from Celeste’s upcoming shows.

36:20 - The Importance of Small Venues – Supporting grassroots music spaces.

39:40 - The Second Album Challenge – Celeste reflects on the creative process of her sophomore album.

44:00 - Acting Aspirations – Celeste’s thoughts on future film roles.

45:40 - The Celeste Movement – Her unique performance style and stage presence.

46:00 - Closing Thoughts – Clara wraps up the episode and teases the next one.

In this episode we're joined by the brilliant Lennie James—actor, writer, and all-around legend, to talk about his love for travel, the must-have items in his suitcase, and the music that helps him unwind.

Lennie kicks off with his number one travel rule: shoes off, socks off, music on. He shares why headphones are strictly for public spaces and why Jacob Banks is currently the soundtrack to his travels.

We also get into the places that have left a mark on him, including New Zealand, where he says his soul finds true peace. And if he ever pulls a Dave Chappelle and disappears? Don’t come looking—he’ll be in Piha.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper chat without diving into snacks and travel hacks. From the lengths he’ll go to for a good hot pepper sauce to the fine art of packing (roll, don’t fold!), Lennie proves he’s got this travel game locked down. Plus, his tip for surviving airport madness? Get a lounge pass—you never know who you might meet. (Like, say… Smokey Robinson, who not only recognised him but was already a fan!)

This week Clara is joined by BAFTA-winning actor and all-around legend Lennie James. You’ve seen him as Morgan Jones in The Walking Dead, DCI Tony Gates in Line of Duty, and even heard his voice in Mufasa: The Lion King. Now, he’s here to take us on a journey through his life, career, and the places that shaped him.

From his Nottingham roots to growing up in London, Lennie reflects on his past, reconnecting with his birthplace, and the moments that shaped him.

He shares stories of childhood adventures in Great Yarmouth, the unexpected path that led him to acting, and his first big purchases—a leather jacket and a saxophone. His career has taken him around the world, from Dominica to Budapest, with The Walking Dead changing everything. Recognition has come in unusual places, including a Vatican guard who mistook him for a trespasser before realising who he was.

Lennie also opens up about his powerful role in Mr. Loverman, the overwhelming audience reaction, and why telling bold, challenging stories matters. With his next project, Mayor of Kingstown, on the way, he’s still pushing boundaries and seeking new adventures.

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Chapter Markers:

1:00 - Lennie’s Career Highlights: Discussing his well-known roles in Line of Duty, The Walking Dead, and Mr. Loverman.

2:00 - Creative Fulfilment & Life After The Walking Dead: Lennie talks about embracing new challenges and career transitions.

2:40 - Journey to Nottingham: Lennie reflects on his birthplace, reconnecting with his roots, and his desire to know more about Nottingham.

4:00 - Family History & Windrush Generation: How Lennie’s mother moved from Trinidad to England and the family's transition to London.

5:00 - Growing Up & Early Memories: Lennie shares childhood stories, including his lack of memory of Nottingham and early life experiences in London.

8:00 - Great Yarmouth & The Police Officer Connection: A chance childhood encounter with a police officer leads to lifelong friendships and summers spent in Great Yarmouth.

10:00 - Life in a Children's Home & Finding Stability: Lennie talks about growing up in care and how it shaped his life.

13:40 - Becoming an Ambassador for Barnardo’s: His motivation for working with Barnardo’s and advocating for children in care.

16:00 - Entering Acting & Early Career: How Lennie transitioned from writing to acting, his time at drama school, and his first acting job.

23:00 - First Paycheck Splurge: Lennie’s first big purchase: a leather jacket and a saxophone.

25:00 - Travel Essentials & Packing Tips: Hot pepper sauce, skin lotion, and the art of efficient packing.

27:00 - Filming in Dominica & Family Life: Early filming experiences and the impact of bringing his newborn daughter to the Caribbean.

34:40 - Being Recognised in Unexpected Places: A Vatican guard recognises Lennie while he’s lost in a restricted corridor.

38:00 - The Impact of The Walking Dead: Navigating fan culture, conventions, and the unique experience of being part of such a global phenomenon.

44:20 - Mayor of Kingstown & New Roles: How Lennie landed a role in Mayor of Kingstown and his excitement for new projects.

47:00 - Mr. Loverman & Representation in Storytelling: Taking on the role of Barrington Walker and tackling taboos in the Black community.

50:00 - The Power of Representation & Audience Reactions: Emotional responses from fans and the importance of telling diverse stories.

51:20 - What’s Next for Lennie James: Exciting future projects and personal passions, including an upcoming film.

Join us in The Quiet Coach with comedian Maisie Adam as she chats with Clara Amfo about travel, music, and the art of finding peace on the move. Maisie shares her love for the quiet coach, her biggest travel pet peeves, and the small joys that make train journeys special.

She talks about the playlists that set the mood for her trips, from energising pre-show tracks to calming tunes for the journey home. Maisie also reflects on a memorable round-the-world adventure with her brother, where she gained new perspectives on independence and curiosity.

Along the way, there are candid insights into the quirks of British train travel, the comfort of familiar snacks, and the sense of freedom that comes with hitting the tracks solo.

In this episode of Routes from LNER, Clara Amfo sits down with award-winning comedian and football fan Maisie Adam for a hilarious chat about life on tour, childhood holidays, and navigating the comedy world.

Maisie talks about growing up in Harrogate, visiting Leeds for gigs and nights out, and her family’s annual Blackpool trips, where spotting Blackpool Tower and Playing on the pier was a childhood thrill. She shares her deep love for Leeds United, how she rediscovered football through the women’s game, and what it’s like to meet her sporting heroes—cue an iconic encounter with Leah Williamson.

On the comedy front, Maisie reveals the reality of tour life, from taking endless photos of hotel room doors so she can remember her room number to watching Family Guy and Naked Attraction in Premier Inns. She debunks the myth that comedians create new jokes every night and explains why Edinburgh Waverley Station gives her anxiety every August. Plus, she spills on her dream Strictly routine (hint: Billy Elliot vibes), her hiking and Aperol spritz holidays, and that time she played a Vuvuzela with Sir Trevor McDonald.

From Yorkshire Dales hikes to Jamaica beach days, this episode is packed with laughs and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the UK’s funniest stand-ups.

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Chapter Markers:

01:20 – Maisie’s Yorkshire roots: growing up in Harrogate, school days, and nights out in Leeds.

3:00 – Childhood friendships: lifelong mates, nights at the darts, and transitioning into adulthood.

4:20 – Maisie’s accidental career in cross-country running (but her true love is football).

6:00 – Comedy origins: learning storytelling from her family and studying the greats like Lee Evans & Victoria Wood.

10:00 – A big family Christmas (and why Maisie’s mum is the ultimate storyteller).

11:20 – Holidays past & present: childhood summers in Blackpool, chasing the illuminations, and growing up with family traditions.

15:00 – Game time! Maisie & Clara play National Treasure Top Trumps (with hilarious debates over Sir Trevor McDonald vs. Dame Julie Walters).

21:00 – Football fandom: growing up as a Leeds fan, falling out of love with the men’s game, and finding joy in women’s football.

27:00 – Starstruck moments: Maisie meets her football heroes and (tries) to play it cool.

29:00 – The reality of touring: hotel room doors, Naked Attraction marathons, and train life.

33:40 – Best & worst train stations: Why Leeds is a dream and why Edinburgh Waverley gives comedians nightmares.

39:00 – Holidays as a comedian: from wild party trips in Zante to cozy cottage getaways.

42:00 – Comedy secrets revealed: Do comedians do the same material every night? (Clara’s mind is blown! 🤯)

46:00 – Maisie’s favourite places to perform and the challenges of doing a hometown show.

48:40 – A surprise audience moment: Maisie’s grandma’s carers steal the show!

49:40 – Wrapping up: Maisie’s Appraisal tour continues—get your tickets now!