The People Will Talk Podcast: Recent Episodes
El Arpa Media (Podcast!)
As Esteban begins a journey of self-awareness, he also discovers the charms of an enchanting city alive in summer.
This is the background to Us Human Towers, a debut novel penned by Stephen Rossiter.
He joins us on the pod to talk about the book, travelling, and all things writing.
You can buy it here.
Photo Credit: Stephen Rossiter.
Music Credit: New Dawn by Bensound (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
David Looby has travelled extensively, worked as a journalist and has a perspective that straddles both sides of the Atlantic. He talks about all this, as well as his debut novel.
A Billion Sharp Pieces asks how far someone can be pushed before they crack and what does it take for Todd, the novel's protagonist, to realise there are only two choices: living or dying.
Buy the book here.
Photo Credit: David Looby.
Music Credit: Adventures by A Himitsu.
Originally from the UK, Jayne now calls Madrid home. She is a regular columnist for The Madrid Review, a writer, editor, and the brains behind one of the best writing groups in the Spanish capital.
Quite simply, she has a lot of strings to her bow, and she joined us for a fascinating chat.
Buy her excellent debut book, and check out her website.
Photo Credit: Jayne Marshall/Modern Odyssey Books
Music Credit: Harmony by Alan Pilijak (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
John Dapolito has spent twenty-five years in Madrid and more than thirty living in Spain. He is an English language teaching professional, photographer and a regular of the open-mic scene in the city. A collection of five-minute tales, A Hundred-Year-Old Bitch, is currently in the works. His color photos are featured in the book A Guide to Madrid’s Literary District / Guía Literaria Del Barrio De Las Letras De Madrid (Secret Kingdoms).
By the book here.
Photo Credit: John Dapolito
Music Credit: Harmony by Alan Pilijak (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
A Thousand Lives is about love (and heartbreak), art (and how it makes and breaks us) and the strength and endurance that come from life’s most challenging times. After riding each storm and coming out the other side – scars and all – we learn that life is so much more than existence: it is a relentless teacher and a sacred companion.
We owe so much to our mistakes.
Parisa Salahshourian was born in Isfahan (Iran) and lives in Madrid (Spain). She is a passionate Literature teacher, as well as a dedicated theatre actress/director and a creative writer. A Thousand Lives is her first poetry collection.
Buy the book here.
Music Credit: Let Night Ab by Moby.
Roy Lotz, author of Don Bigote, was interviewed on Radio Exterior, a show on national Spanish radio that broadcasts in many languages, including English. He was able to discuss conspiracy theories, the USA and the inspiration for his story!
Launched in 1942, REE serves as a bridge between Spain and Spanish-speaking communities around the globe, including Latin America, North Africa, and expatriate Spaniards. It features news, cultural programs, music, sports, and discussions on current events, providing a global audience with a Spanish point of view.
Watch the video here.
Wells Jones is a modern-day adventurer, writer, kayaker and, well, the list is endless. He is a passionate and inspiring man, and we thoroughly enjoyed hearing his thoughts on what it means to travel, as well as his admiration for T.E. Lawrence and all the cultures he has encountered along the way.
He also spoke about his book A Line in the Sand, which he co-wrote with Miles Spencer, and his experiences of plays, performing and collaborating with non-profits.
Buy his incredible book here.
For more culture, check out our blog.
Photo Credit: Wells Jones
Music Credit: Bortexx - Hope (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
This episode is in Spanish
En este episodio tenemos la suerte de charlar un rato con Rafael Carpintero, profesor universitario de traducción y artífice de la traducción al español de la mayoría de libros de Orhan Pamuk hasta la fecha.
Nos cuenta las palabras que más detesta, las dificultades y las bonanzas del idioma turco, y los proyectos que aún tiene por completar.
Leed el blogde Rafael, lleno de anécdotas y curiosidades sobre las vicisitudes de traducción.
La página del proyecto de traductores puede visitarse aquí.
Photo credit: Rafael Carpintero
Music credit: Blue Dot Sessions - Lunette Interlude (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
Roy Lotz hails from New York, and in this video, he shows us his favourite spots around his adopted home.
Get his book here.
Photo credit: Ybernia Editorial.
Music credit: Carpe Diem, by Dee Yan Key (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
La autora Keka Dilano habla con María sobre su libro Igoli.
La vida de la joven Angie cambia con la repentina muerte de sus padres. Tras esta tragedia aparentemente inesperada, descubre cosas que le hacen preguntarse si su familia oculta un profundo secreto.
Con la ayuda del apuesto William, propietario de un extenso rancho en Kenia, y del igualmente atractivo Raffaele, uno de los mejores amigos de su hermano, intenta desentrañar los misterios que la rodean.
Ambos tienen sus propios secretos. En la primera parte de esta saga de Draconangelus, los tres tendrán que unirse contra las fuerzas oscuras que amenazan al mundo y a la única familia que le queda a Angie.
Compra la versión en español aquí.
Y la versión en inglés aquí.
Laura has written an amazing book about the environment for children. Called The Invisible Gift/El Regalo Invisible, this bilingual book - which is illustrated and there is an audio version as well - teaches kids that we all can play a role in protecting the planet.
We chat about bilingualism, writing and the art of telling a story.
Find her book here.
Photo credit: Laura Silva Kirkpatrick.
Music credit: Life in Letters, by Ketsa (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
Wayne Kehoe joins us on the pod today to discuss his globe-trotting adventures, terrible Irish summers, working in London's Natural History Museum and about the art of design.
Enjoy!
Photo credit: Wayne Kehoe.
Music credit: Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC) and Got To Get Funky, by Juqboxmusic (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
We really enjoyed our time at the Majadahonda Book Fair.
Sharing a stall with our writers, meeting avid readers and a cast of interesting people made for a fantastic 4 days.
Find out who we met by having a listen!
Photo Credit: Ybernia.
Music: Up, Up and Away by Blue Dot Sessions (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
This episode is in Spanish
Un episodio muy especial con Rosario LLorens, profesora durante cuarenta años. Rosario cursó tres carreras universitarias, conoció al Rey Emérito en curiosas circunstancias y tiene una memoria prodigiosa.
Nos cuenta cosas, recita de memoria poemas que aprendió hace ochenta años y nos da un consejo final precioso sobre la vida.
Photo credit: ABC.
Music credit: The sands of Windhoek by Art of Escapism (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
This episode is in Spanish
Eva Galindo, K. Dilano y Tessa Rodríguez son Las 3 Mosqueteras, tres mujeres de armas tomar con una gran pasión por escribir, editar y publicar.
Charlamos con ellas sobre las prioridades del escritor, sus géneros literarios favoritos y cómo les gustaría que fuera el panorama editorial.
Síguelas en Instagram @eva_galindoesteban, @k.dilano y @editorial_chocolate, y si quieres dirigirles alguna pregunta, escríbeles a lastresmosqueterasrecomiendan@gmail.com
Photo credit:
Music credit: Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC) and Got To Get Funky, by Juqboxmusic (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
This week we interview British radio and TV presenter Hannah Murray, who now calls Spain her home.
She's a successful communicator with an extensive career and she tells us about how she decided to settle in Spain, her listeners and her love of radio and theatre.
Listen to Hannah here:
Talk Radio Europe
Good Morning Spain TV
Marbella with Him & Her
Photo credit: Hannah Murray
Music credit: Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
Jonathan Teuma is a poet from Gibraltar, and he has written a book of haikus that focuses on a dialect used in Gibraltar, one influenced by both English and Spanish.
Unused for many years, it is now gaining prominence as many poets and artists are starting to use it again.
You can buy the book here.
The book's launch can be seen here, and it was a wonderful night of reciting and music.
Photo Credit: Jonathan Teuma. Music Credit: JazzyFrenchy by BenSound (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC).
In today's podcast, we talk about several books, with Until August by Gabriel García Márquez, Life for Sale by Yukio Mishima and Wind, Sand and Stars by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry dominating the proceedings.
All three are excellent books, created in peculiar circumstances and with their particular foibles.
Enjoy!
Photo Credit: Rakicevic Nenad (Pexels.com) Music Credit: 1st Contact by Deimos Rising, Free Music Archive CC BY-SA, Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC) and Got To Get Funky, by Juqboxmusic (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
James Hartley is a writer, teacher and editor of two amazing journals. He talks to us about his love of Shakespeare, the power of people writing in their second language and the famous people he has interviewed.
You can check the Tint Journal here, and his new project The Madrid Review here.
You can buy The Madrid Review from our online shop, and soon it will be available in Secret Kingdoms.
Photo Credit: James Hartley. Music Credit: 1st Contact by Deimos Rising, Free Music Archive CC BY-SA y Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
Catalina Aranguren is a wonderful photographer with an international background.
We chat with her about travelling across many countries, artistic sensibilities and what it's like being bilingual.
Check out her work here; you can also find her on social media.
Photo Credit: Catalin Aranguren
Music credit: 1st Contact by Deimos Rising, Free Music Archive CC BY-SA y Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
Written by the Nobel Prize-winning author José Saramago, Journey to Portugal is a fascinating account of his homeland in the first few years of democracy.
He discovers amazing legends, good food, friendly locals, abundant churches, as well as his own philosophical meditation on what it means to be a traveler.
The text version of the review can be read here and here.
Music: 1st Contact by Deimos Rising, Free Music Archive CC BY-SA y Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
Photo Credit: Voy a leer (follow this link)
This episode is in Spanish
Entrevistamos a Clara Ministral, traductora literaria y creadora del proyecto Wheeker Books sobre literatura norirlandesa.
Charlamos sobre su interés por Irlanda del Norte, sobre el presente y futuro de Wheeker Books y sobre la importancia del lenguaje como elemento identitario.
Visita su web y síguela en Twitter.
Foto: Clara Ministral
Música: 1st Contact by Deimos Rising, Free Music Archive CC BY-SA y Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
It was Book Week in Spain, and we had quite the literary seven days.
Starting with a roundtable discussion on Monday, we read a magical Irish tale on Friday before manning a stall at the Moratalaz Book Fair.
We sold a few books, made some interesting contacts and had a grand old time.
Photo Credit: Pepe Añón
Music Credit: Got To Get Funky, by Juqboxmusic (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC) and Arcade, by Artur Aravidi (Free Music Archive, CC BY-NC)
Anthony Piovesan is a journalist who hails from Australia but now calls Spain his home.
A passionate writer, he tells us about his love of Spanish culture, what it's like being a freelancer, and what makes a good journalist.
Photo Credit: Anthony Piovesan Music Credit: Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke for Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY and Look Inside by Jahzzar, Free Music Archive, CC BY-SA
Dani joins us on the podcast to tell us about why she moved to Spain, how she helps other foreigners adapt and about her writing career.
Check out her super useful blog and learn more about Spain.
And you can read her book here. We talk about it a lot in the episode and it's a wonderful collection of short stories.
Photo Credit: Dani J. Norwell Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke for Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY and Look Inside by Jahzzar, Free Music Archive, CC BY-SA
We interview successful Scottish writer Joan Fallon, who now calls southern Spain her home.
She has written many fiction books, including the famous crime series around detective Jacaranda Dunne, and she gives some wonderful insights into what motivates her writing and the historical backdrop in her books.
Check out her website, where you can buy her books and follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
Photo: Joan Fallon
Music: Night Owl by Broke for Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY and Look Inside by Jahzzar, Free Music Archive, CC BY-SA
This epic book of a few hundred pages deals with a lot of themes. And at its heart, is the enduring connection between Ireland and Spain.
You can buy the book from our website or from Amazon.
Photo Credit: Ybernia Music Credit: Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke for Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY and Look Inside by Jahzzar, Free Music Archive, CC BY-SA
This episode is in Spanish
Entrevistamos a Marta Espinós, directora adjunta de la Fundación Cultura en Vena, que tiene como objetivo mejorar la vida de las personas en entornos aislados a través de la cultura.
Hablamos de su extraordinaria labor en los hospitales con pacientes, familiares y personal sanitario, y especialmente de sus proyectos literarios Érase una voz y Pequeños pacientes, grandes lectores.
Para saber más sobre sus actividades y colaborar con ellos, visita su página weby sus redes sociales:
Instagram: @culturaenvena Facebook: Fundación Cultura en Vena X: @CulturaEnVena_
Foto: Pexels.com (Karolina Grabowska)
Música: Night Owl by Broke for Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY
Maria Reid, President of the Spanish Irish Business Network, joins us on the pod to talk about the important work that her organization does in developing business in Ireland and Spain.
We also chat about the forthcoming St. Patrick's Day celebrations. As one of the organizers, she offers great insight into the exciting events that are planned.
Don't miss the Family Party in Madrid on Sat 16th in Las Rozas at 11:30. Apart from that, there are sports events, Irish dancing, and a live concert with U2s best hits. These are all part of the #SemanaDeIrlanda. If you can't make it to Las Rozas, don't miss the St Patrick's Parade in Gran Vía on Sat 16th at 16:30 or any of the events laid on by Turismo de Irlanda.
Join SIBN by signing up on their webpage!
Check out the SIBN websiteand this articlefor more info. You can also find them on LinkedIn and their WhatsApp channel, as well as their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh!
Photo Credit: The Puerta de Alcalá lit up in green, courtesy of TeleMadrid Music Credit: Irish Washerwoman by Howie & Ann Mitchell (Free Music Archive) (CC BY-NC-SA)
Christer Strömholm was born 1918. As a youth, he joined the Nordic Nazi Youth where he carried the Swastika. As an adult his political attitude changed, and he gravitated towards the arts, experimental photography and documenting people on the margins of society.
We popped along to see his pictures of French graffiti, atmospheric snow and a post-Civil War Spain.
Follow this link to see the exhibitionand check out The Odyssey TikTok video.
Photo Credit: Fundación Mapfre & Christer Strömholm/Strömholm Estate Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY & 1st Contact by Deimos Rising, Free Music Archive CC BY-SA
Katharine Cannings is a bilingual family coach and educational consultant with an amazing trajectory in Spain and beyond. She tells us about the original activities she has developed through the years, her experience teaching English in popular children's TV channel Clan and Roadmap to your bilingual home, one of her latest projects.
Katharine is also a PEaCH ambassador, an EU project supporting parents and educators of bilingual children beyond English.
Photo Credit: Katharine Cannings.
Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY.
Padraic Ryan has lived many lives, from charity shop manager to man in Madrid, via stints as a musician.
How did he end up in the Spanish capital? Why was he mistaken for a robber? What's the best thing about Spain and the worst thing about Ireland?
Find out in this scintillating episode.
Photo Credit: Padraic Ryan. Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Archive, CC BY & Down by the Salley Gardens played by Padraic on the thin whistle.
Amy has been in Madrid for 19 years.
In that time, she has forged a brilliant music career. With Amy Jo Doherty and the Spangles, she plays punk, while as a solo artist, she likes to play more comedic songs. She performs as part of the Shakey Doodle Time through her music education project.
She has played across Europe and has appeared on Radio 3 and in the iconic Independence Club.
Find her on Instagram hereand check out her website.
Photo Credit: Amy Jo Doherty. Music Credit: Timeless by Pianochocolate, Archive, CC BY, Guiri by Amy Jo Doherty & It is what it is by Amy Jo Doh and the Spangles.
Entrevistamos a la periodista Maribel Orgaz, creadora de multitud de iniciativas culturales en Madrid en torno a la literatura.
Hablamos de sus múltiples libros y de su interés por la naturaleza, y analizamos los factores decisivos para que un club de lectura tenga éxito.
¡No os perdáis esta clase magistral sobre la difusión de la literatura!
Aquí puedes visitar su blog Leer en Madrid y El Madrid de las mujeres.
Photo Credit: Maribel Orgaz. Music Credit: Timeless by Pianochocolate, Free Music Archive, CC BY.
Colin Murphy tells us about his time in Madrid, playing rugby with some Irish greats, and his thriving beard oil business.
Find his website here, and he's also on social media. Read an interview we did with him a while back.
Photo Credit: Colin Murphy. Music Credit: Timeless by Pianochocolate, Archive, CC BY.
Nobody is from Madrid.
Photo Credit: Charry Jin @ Pexels. Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY
Life in cities is not a spring but a river ... it progresses like a novel.- Patrick KavanaghBarry hails from Limerick and has travelled the world, from the rites of passage that were the J1 in the USA and Erasmus in France, to dragons in the Balkans and the Trans-Siberian railway.
Why does he have so much wanderlust? What makes him devour travel literature and tales from across the globe on podcasts and YouTube? What can he tell us about Seoul and other breathtaking places?
Travel with Barry in this wide-ranging, word-stretching episode, and see what else he gets up on his Tumblr. Keep on his handle 'Baztello', as he will use it on other platforms in the future.
Photo Credit: Barry Costello, at the Serengeti.
Music Credit: Red Wine by Bibi Tanga and the Selenties, Free Music Archive, CC BY.
¡Un nuevo episodio en español de The People Will Talk Podcast!
Tras su presentación física en la librería La Independiente de Madrid, hablamos del primer libro de la editorial Ybernia en español, La vida en el cráter, una reflexión ligera llena de humor y filosofía donde la historia y la imaginación se unen para celebrar los éxitos, las coincidencias y el resto de rarezas que nos hacen humanos.
Puedes comprar el libro en Amazon o en la página web de Ybernia.
Crédito de la foto: Ybernia.
Créditos de la música: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY.
Art O'Donnell has written a wonderful book about birds, taking in the travails of moving country, being sick in a foreign land, the weight of the past, what it means to be a teacher and the karma that can befall a person who takes shortcuts on El Camino.
Praised for its humour and insight, we are proud that this is one of our first publications.
Buy the book on Amazon, and check out our website.
Happy listening and reading.
Photo Credit: Ybernia.
Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY.
It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them - Ernest Hemingway.
Joe Rossiter hails from Wexford, where is now teaching. He joins us on the pod to talk about experiencing Madrid in the 1990s, being on the Olympic B Development Squad, running into Seamus Heaney and his love of Hemingway and cycling.
Enjoy!
Photo Credit: Joe Rossiter. Audio Clip Credit: Irish Financial Regulator.
Music Credit: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY.
This episode is in Spanish. You can find a subtitled English version here
Hablamos con el periodista Fede Cardelús, presentador de Callejeros Viajeros y La aventura del saber entre otros. Charlamos con él de lo que significa ser reportero de viajes, de su premiado documental Kalipay, de sus fuentes de inspiración literarias y de sus proyectos personales.
Síguele en su canal de YouTube Comunicados o en Instagram.
Música: Night Owl by Broke For Free, Free Music Archive, CC BY
We discovered that the great Cary Grant was in a movie that shared its name with our podcast.
With that flimsy premise, we went on a voyage of discovery, encountering German theatre, McCarthyism, flops, LSD and a romantic comedy that still holds up today.
Oh, and one of us mentions that Grant was in Guns of Navarone. In fact, it was Gregory Peck!
Photo Credit: Herbert Dorfman via Getty Images. Audio Clip Credit: 20th Century Fox.
Music Credit: Flute Street by Poddington Bear& Circles Around the Sun by Mr. Smith (Courtesy of Free Music Archive).
We tried out an AI software that converts your PDF into an audiobook. The voice is completely synthetic and... surprisingly good.
The software in question comes from a company called Quares.
Check out this bonus episode of the pod to hear for yourself.
Photo Credit: JJ Jordan @ Pexels.
Music Credit: Flute Street by Poddington Bear& Circles Around the Sun by Mr. Smith (Courtesy of Free Music Archive).
Alejandra Espinosa joins us on the pod, talking about the rich tradition of storytelling in Colombia, which is both oral and literary.
Why is Gabriel García Márquez so popular around the world? Who are the best female authors in Colombia? What's it like opening up a town's first bookshop? And how did she end up working with Disney on the smash hit Encanto? Find out in today's episode!
Check her website out here, and follow her(@aljibearte) and her bookshop (@aljibelibreria) on Instagram to see her wonderful events.
Photo Credit: Nathalie Sarmiento.
Music Credit: Flute Street by Poddington Bear& Circles Around the Sun by Mr. Smith (Courtesy of Free Music Archive).
Roy hails from Sleepy Hollow, and he now calls Madrid home after a stint living in Manhattan. He is a keen reader and writer, with a book to his name as well as a successful blog and a huge following on Goodreads.
We talk about modern-day mummies, philosophy, culture, and eating sand!
Read his excellent blogand find his book on Amazon.
Photo Credit: Roy Lotz.
Music Credit: Liquid Tension, Mr Smith, Free Music Archive and Attribution 4.0 International Licence.
Additional Credit: Sleepy Hollow (Paramount Pictures/Mandalay Pictures, 1999).
This episode is in Spanish, check our YouTube channel very soon for a version with English subtitles
Eugenio Monesma is an award-winning ethnographic cinema producer and director with 40 years of experience recording the traditional trades, food, festivals and customs of the Iberian Peninsula. Through them, he's amassed an archive of over 3000 documentaries. He's recently made headlines thanks to his YouTube channel, which has surpassed 1 million suscribers across the world. We talk to him about this amazing feat, his lifetime work and the future of tradition.
Eugenio Monesma es director y productor de cine etnográfico con una trayectoria de 40 años por la que ha recibido numerosos premios. Su trabajo documenta los oficios, gastronomía, festivales y costumbres tradicionales de la Península Ibérica, además de muchos otros temas históricos y geográficos de interés, en total más de 3000 documentales. Su canal de YouTube acaba de superar el millón de seguidores en todo el mundo. Hablamos con él de este increíble logro, de su impresionante carrera y del futuro de las tradiciones.
Music: Flute Fleet by Poddington Bear and Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck.
Photo credit: El Estudio.
This podcast was recorded at the fantastic Secret Kingdoms bookshop, as part of our bookshop/podcast series.
We got our chat on with Carlos, who gave us insights into a coach's winning mentality and the ethos underpinning his basketball teams. Off the court, he is a budding journalist who shared his thoughts on Tik Tok and press freedom.
Check out the basketball website here, where you can even sign-up and play. Their contact information can be found via this link, and be sure to search for Singer Basket on social media.
Music: Flute Fleet by Poddington Bear and Hope by Life Saturation.
Photo Credit: Carlos Polo Rosario.
Yes, yes, we jumped on the bandwagon and did what everybody else is doing.
We asked Chat GPT to give us three ideas for a podcast, and it was duly delivered. So, we are talking about the future, hidden stories, and architecture. As a result, we get to talk about wickedly bad design, war, and the inevitable end of our species.
As an antidote to cold machinery, we recorded this episode in a park, and at the 40-minute mark, we allow a few seconds of bird-twittering soundscape (nod to the last pod) to wash over us.
Good times.
Music: Flute Fleet by Poddington Bear, Hope by Life Saturation, and Circles by Mr. Smith.
Photo Credit: This is Engineering at Pexels.
Abel joins us on the pod today to talk about canines. He is a celebrated dog trainer with many titles to his name. We hear about travelling the world, the best dogs, and the powerful effects of dog therapy.
Music: Flute Fleet by Poddington Bear and Hope by Life Saturation.
Photo Credit: Abel Hounkara.
Recorded in a park. Which one? As we discover, it doesn't really matter. Or does it?
We bring you a meditation on a new museum, Moroccan colours, and soundscapes. These range from white and green noises to aural symphonies that take in populated streets, babbling brooks, and plane engines.
Who are they for? What do they do? Let's find out.
And thanks for listening to our sound.
Music: Dirk Dehler's The Bright Star, Mr Smith's Circles Round the Sun & Podington Bear's Flute Fleet.
The story of those who fled. The story of those finding a home in Spain.
Music:Passionby Borrtex.
Originally from England, she moved to Spain at a young age. Amy told us about discovering interesting corners of the country, working in a 'mini UN', being from two cultural backgrounds, and so much more.
Listen to Amy's wonderful shows here.
Photo credit: The towers of Radio Exterior, courtesy of RTVE.
Music: Flute Street by Poddington Bear& Circles Around the Sun by Mr. Smith.
We look at an interesting documentary where a woman tells a big lie, and we cast our gazes at the uneven, ultimately more than the sum of its parts, The Wonder.
As always, enjoy!
Photo credit: The Wonder (2022), Element Pictures and Screen Ireland.
Music: Pictures of the Floating World & Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Lara Wong is an award-winning Canadian flautist who masterfully combines the bansuri, the traditional Indian flute, with flamenco music.
We talk about her musical journey, her experiences working with Spanish musicians and her amazing achievements in the world of flamenco, including being the first foreigner to win in any category of the festival Cante de las Minas's 60-year history, and the first female to win the instrumentalist category.
She also features in Flamenco Jazz: Historia de un amor, which can be seen here.
Photo credit: Lara Wong
Music: Flamenco Rhythm by Sunsearcher
INAD (Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy) is a devastating ultra-rare condition that affects children from a very early age.
Rebecca Skeates tells us about her family's experience with the condition, search for a cure and her deep involvement in INADCURE Spain.
Their campaign aims to raise 7 million dollars/euros to fund a new gene therapy clinical trial. It seems a lot, but if 1 million people donated 7 dollars/euros they would reach their target. Please consider donating so you can make a difference in a family's life:
Link to the donations page for the “Súmate, Suma 7” campaign in Spain:
https://inadcurespain.org/sumate-suma7/
International donations - “One gene, one dream” campaign (INADCURE US):
https://give.inadcure.org/campaign/one-gene-one-dream/c407538
Music Credit: Dream of Beauty - Free Music Archive
Photo Credit: INADCURE Spain
Anita Haas is an award-winning Canadian writer and English teacher based in Madrid.
We speak to her about her experiences living in Spain, her inspiration for her short stories and poems, and her latest venture, a children's book which she has written and illustrated herself. She also tells us what is like to live, work and write with achromatopsia, a visual condition that prevents her from seeing colours.
You can order her latest book Chato, el perrigato / Chato, the puppy-cat here.
Music: Pictures of the Floating World & Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: Anita Haas.
Alice in Wonderland has inspired artists endlessly since it was published. But what is down the rabbit hole?
We visit Fundación Canal exhibition "Alicia en el País de las Maravillas", showcasing the story's influence in Dalí, Ernst, Laurencin and Tenniel, all of whom illustrated different versions of the book, as well as their influence in our understanding of Alice.
Photo credit: Moldy Vintage.
Music: David Hilowitz - Whimsical Theme #2
This autumn is seeing the anticipated release of the English version of El Infinito en un junco (Irene Vallejo, 2019) under the name Papyrus. The invention of books in the ancient world.
We have had the tremendous pleasure to interview the two women that have made it happen, Irene Vallejo (author and Essay of the Year recipient) and Charlotte Mae Whittle (English translator for both US and UK editions).
Both of them share with us their passion for books and for languages and give us precious insights into the universe of Papyrus and the reasons behind its massive success across the world.
Buy the book here, you won't regret it!
Photo Credit: EL PAÍS.
Madrid & Darracott is not just about the wine. It's also about the experience.
This Anglo-Spanish duo that opened shop in the centre of Madrid are tremendously passionate about wine and about having fun, and it is impossible not to be infected by their enthusiasm.
They tell us about their perception of Spanish wine in Spain, about their tastings and events and give us a few useful tips on how to tell your red from your white.
Grab a glass and enjoy!
Check out their podcast or visit their awesome website.
Music: Bibi Tanga and the Selenites - Red Wine
Álvaro is a very creative and well-read individual. Over the course of our chat, we discuss his many writing influences, the Irish language, the joys and headaches associated with launching his own zine series, and as always, so much more.
Check out his Sadwrn website, where you can see and buy his wonderful zines. Incidentally, 'sadwrn' is Welsh for Saturn! He is also on Facebook.
Enjoy!
Our Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: Álvaro Mielgo Gallego.
María José Rodríguez Becedas is a Spanish lawyer who is helping these women make their way to Spain, and once here, build a new life.
She tells us about the many challenges faced by these refugees, as well as the inspiring work being done by her and her organization.
To find out more, visit mas-democracia.org.
Music: Skyline Horizon by Rho and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: María José Rodríguez Becedas.
David Price is the proud owner of The Secret Kingdoms bookshop in Madrid's Barrio de las Letras, a natural storyteller and an aspiring novelist himself.
In this podcast episode, he unveils the secret of his success opening a full English bookshop in Madrid and gives us some insights into the book business, as well as some general life tips.
Enjoy!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Music: Skyline Horizon by Rho.
Photo credit: David Price
Madrid's wonderful Secret Kingdoms bookshop hosted our conversation with Dr Chris Naunton, who is an author, TV personality and Egyptologist extraordinaire.
With our illustrious guest, we spoke about inspiring future generations, colonialism, how to use a trowel, and so much more.
We also get María's insight into the event, as she was the one asking the questions. And one of the co-hosts - who incidentally won a raffle at the event - mispronounces Tutankhamun on more than one occasion.
Buy María's book here.
Enjoy!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Music: Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck, Skyline Horizon by Rho, and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: egyptindependent.com.
Delving into the world of ancient inspiration, sustainable living, and our very own photographic exhibition.
For more info, read this, and see the photos here. To see María's book, follow this little link!
Music: Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck, Crowander by Celtic, and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: María Correas.
This restaurant can be seen in the Fundación Pablo VI, which is hosting an exhibition about other lives, featuring photos about Africa, Pakistan, China, and Bolivia.
It is a wonderful opportunity to see the experiences of ordinary people around the globe, with bustling markets, thronging streets, lonely churches, and mud-brick houses.
Also in this episode: three engaging documentaries feature in Part 2, and we share our thoughts on Ukraine, journalism, and human rights. The documentaries mentioned are Dying to Tell, Ukraine on Fire, and E Team.
Enjoy!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck, Crowander by Celtic, and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: Carlos Ribera on Pexels.
What's in a look, a moment? What is it about the quiet slices of introspection; the spark in a group; the crackle in a duo; or the wild, exaggerated - yet compelling - performance of one actor? The answer, tied to so many variables and factors, from all decades of cinema, across big screens and small, is quixotically and brilliantly subjective.
Sit back and listen to us discuss and debate Heat, Mad Men, The Sopranos, Killing Eve, Game of Thrones, A Bridge Too Far, Lawrence of Arabia, Catch Me If You Can, Walk the Line and so much more. Spanish acting great Luis Tosar also gets more than one mention.
Check out Lindsay's band Angry Saints by following this link.
Enjoy!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: Festival de Cannes.
Paul was so kind and generous with his time, and he discussed his musical pursuits, humanism, the meaning of things and finding identity through language. We also delved into his poetry and collaborations with luminaries such as Iris Murdoch.
For a snapshot of all the incredible things he's done, check out his Wikipedia page.
Enjoy!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Pictures of the Floating World by Pale Tussuck and Someday by Sergey Cheremisinov.
Photo Credit: Dr Paul Hullah and his wife Yaoyao.
We were lucky enough to chat with him and hear about his time photographing The National and famous Hollywood actors. Graham also gave us insight into American life and regaled us with a great story about travelling to Ireland a few years ago.
As a passionate campaigner and advocate for social justice, his work has been featured in major international publications.
Check out his website here.
Enjoy this episode, which was recorded at the fantastic Crazy Mary Librería!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: Graham MacIndoe
Believe it or not, Beti Jai is the Basque for 'never stop partying', and it's also the name of the frontón court that has reopened in Madrid. It is an old sport and the stadium is a wonderful wooden edifice, acting as a link to the past and a testament to how Madrid is bursting with a wide mix of culture.
And a drunk guy crashed bumper to bumper... wait a minute, where's me registration plate? Oh no.
Enjoy!
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple, Me On The Inside and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: Pixabay
Roy was so generous with his time and a pleasure to have on the podcast! We spoke about rubbing shoulders with some of Ireland's great balladeers, emigration, social issues, Irish chart success, a Grammy nomination, and even a little bit about Garth Brooks.
Listen to Roy's wonderful music on YouTubeand Spotify. You can also find him on social media.
Follow us on our socials:
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Blog: Irish Slice of Madrid
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: Echo Live (read the full article here).
We walked it just for you, capturing the sights, the sounds, and the vibe of a building that has stood in the heart of Madrid for many years. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, we consider how the Spanish capital is changing, characters from Cervantes, and as always, much, much more.
Apart from some sirens at the very start, it's easy listening!
And before you go, read our blog post about Lana del Rey and Ireland.
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: The Royal Palace, as taken by El Arpa ©2021.
We ponder mindbending mirrors, cider-heads, feathers, Pisa, reality, psychology, neuroscience and the meaning (or lack of) behind the mystery of the Magritte Machine.
And before you go, read our blog post about Lana del Rey and Ireland.
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: The False Mirrorby René Magritte.
A night of reading, presentations and music, where we got to grips with Joyce's love of dancing, sport and food, and where we happily got lost in the worlds of Dubliners, Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man and Ulysses.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated and who came to celebrate with us.
And before you go, read our piece about James Joyce and Bloomsday.
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Tripleand Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: The Guardian
We went to Casa America to see Rincones Geométricos by Francisco Ubilla and two other installations. After that, we popped along to the Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas.
Join us on this cultural rollercoaster!
And before you go, read about our upcoming James Joyce event in Madrid. It's awesome.
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple, Me On The Inside and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: Casa America.
Bill Barker is an insightful and witty guest, and it was a pleasure chatting to him about the joys of Kerouac, the writing process, getting published, life, famous neighbours and so much more. Oh, and a chance and exciting encounter with Monty Python's Terry Gilliam!
Find his book Belly Up! here, and his blog, - with flash fiction, poems, absurdity and bits - can be read through this link.
Music:
Pictures of the Floating World - Pale Tussuck
Sergey Cheremisinov - Someday (Instrumental)
Photo Credit: Image supplied by Bill Barker.
Ireland is a small island with just under 5 million people, but it’s absolutely packed with things to do and sights to behold. From fairies to Vikings, and from beer to natural wonders, here are our top ten of unmissable things to see in Ireland.
By the way, check out our latest documentary on the might Granada C.F. Also, you can read our interview with Madrid Metropolitan.
Facebook: El Arpa
Instagram: El_Arpa_
Twitter: Elarpa1
Books: Fake Newsand Verano del 69.
Music: Triple, Me On The Inside and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: Daisa TJonPexels.
The post-colonial power of plants and the largest refugee camp in Europe were on display in La Casa Encendida, while we also took a look at previously lost photographs in the Leica shop and museum.
We reference cinchona in the podcast and the photographer we mentioned is Antoni Campañà.
Music: Triple, Me On The Inside and Fully Paid by Ketsa.
Photo Credit: Alex Andrews onPexels.
Sara has enjoyed a wonderful career - she has appeared in Batman Begins and Transformers; highly regarded plays, such as The Cherry Orchard and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf; and numerous well-known TV shows, from Taggart, Fresh Meat and Dr Who to Mr Selfridge, Doctor Foster and The Night Manager.
Join us for an insightful and dynamic chat about the small and big screen, and about treading the boards. We also discuss what it's like working in the UK compared to the USA and encounters with Laura Linney and Judi Dench!
Watch Sara in the forthcoming miniseries La Fortuna, also starring Stanley Tucci. It is directed by Alejandro Amenábar.
Music:
Pictures of the Floating World - Pale Tussuck
Sergey Cheremisinov - Someday (Instrumental)
Photo Credit:Image supplied by Sara Stewart.
Miguel is a Spanish architect who has travelled to Japan on four different occasions. There, he developed a passion for working with wood, which he has maintained back here in Madrid. With many strings to his bow, Miguel is also a publisher, and he has a deep interest in producing high-quality, engaging books.
Join us as we discuss the intricacies of Japanese culture, the popularity of carpentry on Instagram, starting a business during a pandemic, seeking knowledge, and much, much more!
Music:
Pictures of the Floating World - Pale Tussuck
Sergey Cheremisinov - Someday (Instrumental)
Photo Credit: Miguel Sotos Fernández, taken at the Ryoanji Temple.
Lindsay has called Madrid home for a long time now. Apart from being a singer and guitarist for the Angry Saints, he is also a teacher and a translator. We discuss his musical influences, anarchism, and his scandalous Irish connection.
What was supposed to be a 30-minute chat turned into a 75 minute one, so be sure to tune in for this deep, surprising and entertaining conversation.
Music:
Pictures of the Floating World - Pale Tussuck
Sergey Cheremisinov - Someday (Instrumental)
Julie Weiss, originally from California, has made Spain her home. She is a teacher and a writer who has been published in a range of different publications. She appeared on the podcast to discuss her creative process, her perspective on living abroad, and her book can be bought here and here.
Music:
Pictures of the Floating World - Pale Tussuck
Sergey Cheremisinov - Someday (Instrumental)
Delving into hidden worlds inside ourselves and in the night sky.... please enjoy our short story.
If you want to buy our latest book, here is the link.
Music: Reasoningby Edoy and Space Ambienceby Almusic34.
Photo by Faik Akmd
We are back with a new format! With a few books as a basis, we reflect on the experiences of migration and displacement. Featuring stories from the Penguin Book of Migration Literature, and Trevor Noah's autobiography and a couple of photography exhibitions in Madrid.
Music:
Pictures of the Floating World - Pale Tussuck
Sergey Cheremisinov - Someday (Instrumental)
Image by Nav Photography in Pexels
We learnt about priests playing football, goats, deodorant, and the changing face of Spain.
Music: Storybook by Scott Holmes and The Healing by Sergey Cheremis.
Check out our blog, book, Patreon, and t-shirts.
Thanks for listening!
In Part 1, we talk about what Ennio Morricone meant for us, while in Part 2, we discuss The Book of Disquietby Fernando Pessoa and Tell Me No Liesby John Pilger, which is a celebration of brave journalism.
Check out our blog, book, Patreon, and t-shirts.
Thanks for listening!
Madrid is going back to normal now that the COVID-19 lockdown is easing. With our masks and temperatures checked, we saw the best 200 paintings in the Prado museum.
There's also stuff about cowboys, secret things, and sci-fi nightmares from Lebanon.
Check out our blog, book, Patreon, and t-shirts.
Thanks for listening!
Fifth coronavirus podcast special where we discuss the history and myth surrounding beards in different cultures and the new normal developing in Spain as descalation takes place following the coronavirus pandemic.
You can read our article on beards here. If you like what we do and you are able to so, please support us on Patreon.
This is our new website: fakenewsbulos.com
We watched Erased: Ascent of the Invisible, a moving documentary from Lebanon; spoke about a forbidden dance from India; and considered the latest developments in Spain regarding the Coronavirus quarantine.
Find us on Patreon, consider buying our book or our sexy t-shirts, or go on our virtual tour of Lavapiés.
We're still holding on despite weeks of the quarantine! We talk on a mostly fine Skype connection about world reactions to the coronavirus before discussing Aflamuna, a website which showcases independent Arab cinema. We were impressed by Lebanese movie The One Man Village, tune in for our thoughts!
Music by Ketsa and Cambo.
Hello to our Indian and Mexican listeners!
Here is our blog, and we were also interviewed on the podcast El Café de la Lluviaabout our book.
We still can't leave the house, and we send our thoughts to everybody dealing with this global pandemic.
Stuck inside, we try the art of ballet, discuss myth vs. history, talk about dancing for butter, and our parents walking around the sitting room.
Here is our blog, and we were also interviewed on the podcast El Café de la Lluviaabout our book.
We hope everybody stays safe during this global pandemic.
Because we are living a State of Emergency in Spain, we have to do a podcast over Skype; we discuss what it feels like to be living under quarantine.
Here is our blog, and we were also interviewed on the podcast La Casa de la Lluviaabout our book.
We talk about our book launch, Rodin sculptures, Jewish footballers in World War II, and how reading can positively impact a person's life and change attitudes.
Music: Lost Within by A Himitsu & Broken Elegance by Echo.
Find us on Facebook & Twitter.
Our blog, our book, and our t-shirts.
Our book launch is this week! We discuss that in part 1, while in part 2 we examine the experiences Spanish people had in the USA in the 1920s & 1930s. The Spaniards sought the American dream, contributed hugely and have been, until now, largely forgotten.
Check out our blog with this link, and our shop, where you can literary-inspired t-shirts!
Find us on Twitter & Facebook.
We went to Canal Isabel II to see the work of José Antonio Carrera and his Medio del Tiempo. Also on the agenda: a book by Joseph Roth and Yasunari Kawabata.
Our new shop us here!
Read our blog by following this link.
Find us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.
We wrote a book about fake news! In this story, we chart how lies and rumours have impacted famous figures from ancient Rome to the modern world. We have ill-fated romance, murder and centuries of victims.
You can buy it here, and you can check out our blog here.
The Caixaforum has a host of luxurious objects on loan from the British Museum; marvel at luxurious objects from Egypt to Persia!
You can read our blog here.
Find us on Patron, Facebook & Instagram.
We discuss vibrant cultures in Morocco, dancing Bollywood, speaking Irish and the photography of Dubliner Eamonn Doyle.
You can read our blog here.
Broadcasting from the Planets Park in Mostoles, an update on this week's hottest topics (more Brexit shambles!)
Music by https://icons8.com/music/author/moroza-knozova">Moroza Knozova from Fugue
We're back from holidays! We also mention our new book deal.
The podcasts we reference: The Stand with Eamon Dunphy and The David McWilliam's Podcast. There is also a reference to Ireland voting on 'two abortions'. We meant Ireland recently voted on two referendums, one of which was about legalising abortion.
The books we've read: The Wall Jumper by Peter Schneider and Berlin Stories by Robert Walser.
You can find our blog post about Berlin here.
Mercedes recently won the Ateneo Joven de Sevilla contest. Pictured with her is José Ángel Mañas, winner of the senior category with his novel, La Última Juerga.
We discuss feminism, finding your voice and the Salem With Trials, the topic of her debut novel, which will be released into bookshops in November.
Check out our blog here.
We talk about exhibitions featuring Berenice Abbot, Russian propaganda, Spain's relationship with the skies, and the Civil War photos of Constantino Suarez and Floro López.
You can find our blog here.
We talk about the cultural and historical background to HBO's new show.
Strange accents and book fairs also make an appearance.
Read our blog.
In this week episode we interview Warren Batt, head of Serve the City Madrid, and have a chat with him about the decline in volunteers, big corporations, finding meaning, and generally what is going on in this mad, mad world.
Check our blog here!
We discuss schools in Madrid's history, from the early days of teaching hygiene and giving out shoes to the Civil War, where the propaganda and bitter realities from that time still resonate today.
We also talk about our new tour and our new t-shirt.
Our blog is here, and you can find us on Instagram, Patreon & Twitter.
Robbie hails from Ireland but now calls Madrid home. In our chat with him, he gives us a fascinating insight into the world of writing and what it feels like to live in the Spanish capital.
He has written a book, _Working Class Heroes: The Story of Rayo Vallecano, Madrid's Forgotten Team_. This story is a love letter to one of the last remaining barrio teams in the world, and it's available on Amazon.
A version of this interview appears in our blog.
Find us on Instagram, Twitter & Patreon.
In this episode, we discuss disappearing languages, Spanish elections, preview our next big interview, and delve into our experiences of the Madrid Book Week.
Read our latest blog post here.
Find us on Patreon, Instagram & Twitter.
It was our privilege and pleasure to interview three members of the World of Hans Zimmer orchestra, the talented Snow Owl, with Colombian-inspired sounds, Gavin Greenaway, conductor for Interstellar and El Amir, known for Greek, Arabic and flamenco stylings.
All three were gentlemen and spoke eloquently about art, culture and many things besides.
Featuring music by all three musicians:
The Horde (Snow Owl and El Amir)
The Sun Rose (Gavin Greenaway)
Origen del Silencio (El Amir)
With thanks to them and their management team.
You can check out our blog here!
In this episode of the podcast, we head East to the battles of World War II, to hear from an old friend from Belarus and we consider frogs, Franco and one knock-off camera.
Read our blog - it's cool.
Find us on Instagram, Patreon and Twitter.
Food, glorious food!
We discuss how food can help refugees integrate into Ireland before taking a look at Egyptian gastronomy.
You can find us on Twitter, Instagram & Patreon.
Our blog can be found here.
We chart the evolution of the Basque language and discover that it remained unwritten for 1,000 years.
A dog is defended, also.
The comedian we mention is Mitch Hedberg, while Barry's video can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7kSp9tD-dM
Check out our blog here.
You can find us on Instagram, Twitter and Patreon.
We discuss documentaries on the Oscars shortlist, far-right extremism, racism and two excellent movies.
An online Irish course also features on the agenda, and we consider the Bollywood capabilities of 90 year-olds.
This is our latest article. We talk about translating Santa Muerte.
Find on us Twitter, Instagram & Patreon.
We return with a chat about Bollywood, an Oscar contender, the art of an Iraqi refugee and badgers.
Here is the video with the Bollywood performances.
Our website: elarpamedia.com
Our blog: irishsliceofmadrid.com
Find us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn & Patreon.
We discuss Gabriel Garcia Marquez, an Irish woman who saved Jews during WWII, Lenin and a French photographer who chronicled Madrid in the 1850s.
Here is our blog article on the Irish woman.
Find us on Instagram and Patreon.
Music by Lobo Loco and eddy.
We're back! Welcome to the first episode of the year, where we delve into castles, emotional geography, Heaney, and losing at the lottery.
Find us on Instagram and Patreon.
Check out our video on Joyce.
Our 101st episode and our final one before the Christmas break.
In this edition, we talk about a new film, Roma, and the art of applying colour to historical photos. There will also be references to Heidi, Toblerone and to a man with a shopping bag on his face.
Find us on Instagram, Patreon & Twitter. Our blog is irishsliceofmadrid.wordpress.com.
We'll be back in the first week of January. Enjoy!
Yay, and indeed, wooooh.
The 100th Episode.
Find us on Tumblr and Instagram, and our blog irishsliceofmadrid.worpdress.com
This week, at the request of a follower and dear friend, we talk about La Movida, a cultural phenomenon born in Madrid at the end of the 1970s which challenged the rules of the Establishment.
We bring you another Story/Time, this time about the inner struggles we all face sometimes.
This week we visit an art exhibition about the rediscovery of the Mediterranean at Fundación Mapfre (Madrid), explore the intricacies of DNA and discuss Jack Kerouac's 'Satori in Paris'.
And the paintings Meri refers to are George Seurat's 'Bathers at Asnières' and 'Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grand Jatte'.
Music by Broke for Free.
We pick a few photographs from Mariví Ibarrola’s book ‘De Lavapies a la Cabeza’, which we bought last week at the book fair in Plaza Mayor, Madrid, and tell a few stories. Expect goats, drums and dad-walking.
You can read more Lavapies stories in our blog The Irish Slice of Madrid.
Music by Broke for Free.
This week we talk at length about aspects linked to the "Pharaoh: King of Egypt" exhibition at CaixaForum Madrid, as well as discussing a podcast about a writing project involving refugees in Ireland, a videogame set in the Iranian Revolution, a book on joy and more.
Disclaimer: We made a mistake when we described the pharaoh's crowns; the white crown, of course, represents Upper Egypt, and the red crown Lower Egypt, rather than the other way around!
Find us at elarpamedia.com and our blog at irishsliceofmadrid.wordpress.com
In the latest podcast we discuss a new archaeology exhibition in Madrid and also Ricard Terré's retrospective in Canal Isabel II.
Terré was an accomplished photographer who took shots that celebrated the universal themes that connected us all. He was active for numerous decades and all across the world.
We finish the podcast by talking about our blog, which you can read here:
https://irishsliceofmadrid.wordpress.com/
You can find us at elarpamedia.com.
This week we discuss the role of music - especially harps - in movies and myths, focusing on the film The Burmese Harp and the legend of the Irish god Dagda.
You can read the blog post we talk about here: https://irishsliceofmadrid.wordpress.com/2018/10/08/the-harp-instrument-of-emotions/
Music by Ketsa and Spectacular Sound Productions
With Lavapies and Embajadores being voted the 'coolest' neighbourhood in the world, we take a look at what that actually means, both as a concept and for the people living there.
In part 3, the person we refer to is Daryl Davis, star of the documentary Accidental Courtesy.
Music from freemusicarchive.org
Find us on our website:
and on Instagram, YouTube & Patreon.
Download our Android app by following this link:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.andromo.dev709055.app748148
Plus business, Uber, ethics, and mental health.
Find us at elarpamedia.com
New video featuring Irish dancing:
This week we talk about moving, missing, and losing homes, and everything that lives in between.
This week's podcast really is a universal one as we travel through time and space talking about archaeology, American politics, Spanish weddings, podcasting and our visit to the Planetarium in Madrid.
With music from Podington Bear 'Bjork' and Yung Kartz 'Wise Guy'.
In this week's episode, we went to the Walt Disney exhibition at the Caixa Forum. We also popped along to Cibeles to see an exhibition on the Sahara, and the people who have been left in limbo there.
Find us on Patreon, if you want to support us. We are also found on our website and on our social media pages, Twitter and Instagram.
Music by Soulairflair and The Polish Ambassador.
This week we are lucky enough to get into the Republican bunker at Parque de El Capricho, which has recently been opened to very limited visits, as well as visiting MAN (Spanish National Archaeological Museum).
Season 6 of El Arpa Media Podcast is here! Join us as we visit Frank McCourt's house in Limerick and discuss the writer's brief but essential set of works.
Well, well, well... here we are at the season 5 finale as we take a two-week break for the summer holidays.
In this latest episode, we chat about the challenges and rewards of university research, and we also discuss the new leader of the Spanish political party PP.
Midway through the show, we had to switch to the car because we ran out of time in the park. With the clock counting down, we finished the show en route home. But if you think about it, a podcast on the road, with themes of travel and change, is quite fitting. Let the sound of car horns in the background sound like the sweetest music!
You can check out our website at elarpamedia.com, on social media and on Patreon.
Watch our latest video here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GfcdsLbGow
We will be back in a couple of weeks. Chat soon!
This week we talk about a very special book for children we have created, how languages are unique but concepts are universal, and we touch on some social issues we would like to see improved.
We talk primarily in this podcast about the story of Nadia Murad. A victim of ISIS, forced into sexual slavery, she is now a human rights activist. We hear about her compelling story.
As always, there is miscellany before and after the review, so tune in for information about our new Android App and street tours.
Find us at elarpamedia.com, on social media and Patreon.
Music by Audiobinger.
We start off by looking at Leon in the Spanish Civil War and one man's poignant memoir. Then we consider the socialism of Vallecas, and the dancing feet of George Best.
Find us on elarpamedia.com, our social media platforms and Patreon.
In this episode, we talk about summer, language, the history of music, identity, Trump, Bergman and Mo Salah.
Music by Boxxmann.
Check out our website here
* I also say removing the estate tax would cripple farmers, what I meant was not doing so would hurt them. *
A short story in the latest edition of the long-running series. Taking its cue from the style of Laurie Lee, and other wide-ranging influences, this story is about change.
By the way, check out the website at elarpamedia.com.
And a similar vibe of a story on Dressed in a Spanish Life
This week we visit an exhibition on ancient musical instruments at Caixaforum, Madrid, but we cannot help dabbing into World Cup issues every so often...
In this episode, we talk about the changing government in Madrid, a book fair, a documentary, and the 2026 World Cup bid.
Music by Scott Holmes and David Hilowitz.
Find us on Patreon and our social media platforms.
This week we discuss tolerance and respect, with issues that range from the recent Repeal the 8th vote in Ireland to the reflection of Ramadan on football and art.
The podcast episode in which we leave no creative genre unturned.
Check out our latest video here -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQLcBG4G5FQ&t=3s
Even if you don't like football, there is definitely something here for you.
Watch our latest video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQLcBG4G5FQ&t=3s
Picture from Getty Images.
Friend and poet Yanito - Jonathan Teuma - tells us about his family's connection to Gibraltar. He talks about the Civil War, Franco, left-wing ideas, and poetry.
If you are in Madrid, go to one of his Poetry Slam events.
Check out the original interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVeyia7YNrg
And another poem by him
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4e31RvtSmY&t=25s
This week we celebrate International Book Day by talking about literary events, inspiring songwriters and how music and books go sheet in sheet.
(with music from Adriana Krikl and Krackatoa at www.freemusicarchive.org)
A longer episode than usual for this edition.
We have a nice, gentle intro where we discuss the subtle aspects of language, a short outro where we plug our stuff, and a long middle part where we delve into Enoch Powell, Brexit, Syria, and Voltaire.
FYI - yes, we uploaded a day early.
Find us on Patreon & Instagram.
Slang is the topic of today's discussion. Is it good or bad? A part of our culture? Or something that will hold you back in your life?
We look at all the sides of this particular argument.
El Arpa Media on Patreon, Instagram & YouTube.
Music provided by our favourite group - Various Artists.
Did you think I had abandoned the stories? Well, here is a snippet of a new tale. Enjoy!
Join us this week to uncover a photography and a painting exhibition, a documentary with a subject that may or may not tickle your fancy and some interesting facts about frogs' reproductive habits. Don't thank us!
Don't forget you can now also find us on Instagram @elarpamedia , as we take over the world of social media one platform at a time.
Join us this week for our Easter edition, featuring Hiberno-Spanish culture, language and nature to please all senses.
Egypt, audioguides, inspirational women, harps and a green monster.
Song 'Jazzy French' by bensound.com
Pic Credit: The Young & The Poor
This week we talk about a book describing John Gayer-Anderson's life, a colourful character involved in Egyptology, warfare and general mischief.
El Arpa is not just media but completa, as its two members are reunited to review and relive good cinema, good art, and good times.
A podcast that is longer than normal cos ye're a sound a bunch of lads and ye deserve it.
Taking in surrealism, old books, paint, the universe... and a spot of revisionist history.
Blogs, dogs and everything in between.
There is also gossip (xoxo) about St. Patrick, the Spanish Civil War and buskers.
A look at a local poet and a there's even some art. Lovely.
Because I'm an idiot, I mistakenly referred to Beckett's book as 'Kicking Against The Pricks'. It is, in fact, called 'More Kicks Than Pricks'.
A look at Laurie Lee's work, January, a poetry recital and historical pictures.
Oh, and find us on Patreon!
We couldn't start 2018 better than by mixing all the things we love: history, poetry, Ireland, and rhythm! Join us on this trip to the world of medieval monks and manuscripts, and a few unexpected topics.
In this episode we talk about the role music plays in video games, making them even more educational, emotional and exciting! With music from Valiant Hearts, Red Dead Redemption and more.
In this episode we review the most significant (or not) 20th century events and personalities through the eyes of the Magnum Agency photographers.
The third episode in the Story/Time series, this time focusing on the wonders of rhythm.
The second episode in the new series. This story focuses on an old neighbourhood of Madrid.
The first in a new series.
We tell a story over the course of an episode. In this edition, we hear the tale of a guy starting his own podcast.
Our film expert gives us a wonderfully detailed account of the Netflix documentary series 'Five came back', featuring filmmakers during World War II.
We discuss the tradition of telling stories during Autumn, with a little nod to the festivity that's in it.
This week we discuss a fascinating BBC report about the work of the Endangered Poetry Project, which aims to preserve endangered languages through this artistic form.
This week, to introduce our upcoming video, we talk about the ins and outs of translation in all its variants.
This week we visit Nixon's photography exhibition and Fundacion Mapfre Madrid, as well as talking about Gaeilge, the Irish language.
This week at El Arpa we cast our vote on an exhibition about the first democratic elections in Spain after Franco's dictatorship (1977).
It is back to school for El Arpa, and we're back with a whole load of old and new stuff: we review the Jose Latova exhibition at the Museo Arqueologico Nacional in Madrid, and we introduce some exciting new developments in El Arpa...
We continue our tour around the city and uncovering some Madrid secrets and their links to broader history and literature themes
A very special episode this week as we embark on a sensorial tour of Madrid focused on smell - an anticipatory celebration of Bloomsday!
In this miscellaneous episode we talk about an array of interesting things we are up to this month!
In this episode, our in-house writer and reviewer gives us an insight into a fascinating era through the eyes of a great observer and reporter, writer Joseph Roth.
It was International Poetry Day this week and we celebrate it by reading poetry in various languages, discussing exotic flowers and pondering about Neanderthals; random but ever so charming.
In this episode we visit Chema Madoz's photography exhibition at Conde Duque, Madrid, as well as answering some big, big questions
Join us as we test virtual reality devices and hear some expert advice on dealing with video editing projects a few swear words included here and there (all justified!)
We start 2017 just as we finished 2016, bringing you all things culture and art in Madrid and beyond! This time we revisit 1940s Spain in an unmissable exhibition.
It's almost time for El Arpa Christmas Special but before, we have been to see an inspiring photography exhibition. Check it out!
This week we speak about recent deaths and how political controversy transcends death... Sounds grim, but it's dead interesting, believe us.
This week Enda gives us his thoughtful insight into Ken Loach's latest film... And boy did he like it.
This week El Arpa reports on 'Astral', an essential documentary about the drama of African migrants trying to reach Europe by sea, and the commendable humanitarian work undertaken by the NGO ProActiva Open Arms aboard the 'Astral'.
This week we visit Casa Árabe in Madrid for an essential exhibition by Syrian photographer Carole Alfarah which showcases the best and the worst of humankind in a way that will leave no one indifferent.
This week we visit the Printing Museum in Madrid to report on an essential exhibition on clandestine printing (1939-1976)
It is theatre Thursday at El Arpa and we are just too excited to discuss literature, Irishness, language and history all in the same podcast, what more can be hoped for!
Twenty years after the release of the famous novel and sixteen after the film, there's still so much to say about them. Our in-house movie expert (AKA Enda) tells us why book and movie made a lasting impression on him (and, as usual, we are impressed).
In this episode we talk about beautiful cinematography inspired by paintings, featuring movies as varied as Blade Runner, Michael Collins and Pan's Labyrinth!
Tune in for a fascinating insight into the charismatic work of Australian Pakistani poet Zohab Khan, who talks to us about identity, discrimination, and speaking up against social injustice.
This week we attend a photographic exhibition at El Matadero in Madrid to report on an issue which, sadly, continues to be news: the refugee crisis. One year after our one of our first podcasts... Has anything changed?
This week we open our senses at the Blind Museum in Madrid and sing the praises of beautiful Brooklyn, definitely a must-watch.
This week we are honoured to let Orhan Pamuk delve into the strangeness of our minds with a review of his latest, wonderful as ever, creation.
With another week comes another unadulterated dose of El Arpa's honest reflections, this time on a photography exhibition showcasing Julia Margaret Cameron's work at Fundacion Mapfre in Madrid. (Photo (c) Victoria and Albert Museum)
Tune in this week for a real poetry fest as we talk about poem translation, discuss the works of poets Seamus Heaney and Pablo Neruda and reveal some insightful links between them... You will be wanting to own your own bookshop by the end.
You might think you know about Ireland, you might have even been there, but believe me, you have never stepped foot on this Ireland... And it won't disappoint you.
This week we bring in Cleopatra to give us a sneak peek into the world of archaeology and cultural activities in Madrid (no spoilers)!
The El Arpa podcast is back with not just a bang but a few as our Russian expert Enda gives us his insightful opinion on a book dealing with the rise of Russian oligarchs.
Live from Madrid's Conde Duque bringing Christmas to your ears! Merry Christmas/ Feliz Navidad / Nollag shona!
This week we let Charles Chaplin and Buster Keaton take us to a very charming era, the time of the first movies.
This week we visit an exhibition showcasing the work of Czech photographer Josef Koudelka... And it certainly is picture perfect.
We are both fully in our element in this latest episode in which we go back in history to find out more about culture and education in Spain during the 1920s and 1930s.
Man cannot live by culture alone, so this week El Arpa leaves the studio to try some food and drink at the Tapapies Festival with mixed results...
This week Madrid's favourite reporter gives us another insight into yet another cultural activity in Madrid
This week one half of El Arpa interviews the other about a book on the ins and outs of the famous Gestapo... Is the book worth a read?
This week we compare some great myths from across the world and discover who (or what) is who in the world of mythology
This week we share our thoughts on various aspects of the refugee crisis and reflect on how football can make a massive difference when it comes to integration... Curious? Tune in!