Interesting Things with JC #045: "Gridiron Pendulum" - An innovative clock pendulum invented by John Harrison and improved by John Ellicott in the early 18th century. This clever design used different metals to maintain a constant pendulum length despite temperature changes, revolutionizing timekeeping in an era when precision was paramount.

Interesting Things with JC #044: "Tin Can Telephone" - A cherished childhood toy and an early communication technology. Two cans and a string is the basics of sound transmission, and it works without electricity!

Interesting Things with JC #043: "French Was Once the Official Language of England" - Join us as we uncover the story of how French became the lingua franca of England's ruling class after the Norman invasion of 1066. French was used in administration and law until English reasserted itself in the 14th century.

Interesting Things with JC #042: "A British Love Story: Heloise and Abelard" - They had an intellectual and emotional bond has left a profound imprint on history. Despite the societal challenges and personal tragedies they faced, their extensive correspondence offers a window into a love that was both intellectually enriching and deeply passionate.

Interesting Things with JC #041: "British Sayings" - Step into the whimsical world of British slang where phrases like "Bob's your uncle" and "throwing a spanner in the works" add color and humor to everyday conversations. Whether baffling or endearing, these sayings are a key to understanding the linguistic charm of British English.

Interesting Things with JC #040: "Yorkshire Pudding" - A British Culinary Tradition. Join us as we delve into the delightful world of Yorkshire pudding, a cornerstone of British culinary heritage. From its humble beginnings in the 18th century to its status as a Sunday roast essential, this episode explores how Yorkshire pudding has filled the plates and hearts of many.

Interesting Things with JC #039: "Beefeaters: Guardians of the Tower of London" - Explore the fascinating world of the Yeomen Warders, known globally as Beefeaters, who have stood guard over the Tower of London since the 15th century. This episode delves into their historical duties, the requirements to become a Beefeater, and their ongoing contribution to British cultural heritage, offering listeners a glimpse into one of the UK's most enduring symbols.

Interesting Things with JC #038: "Understanding 'Britain' vs 'the UK'" - Ever wondered about the differences between 'Britain' and 'the UK'? In this episode, we delve into the geographical and political nuances that distinguish these terms, a key to comprehending the intricate history and current affairs of the region.

Interesting Things with JC #037: "The Union of Crowns and the Transformation of the Royal Arms" - In 1603, James VI of Scotland also became James I of England, a union that dramatically altered the Royal Arms by introducing the English lion alongside the Scottish unicorn. This update symbolized the merging of Scottish and English sovereignty under a single monarch, reflecting the efforts to forge political unity and a shared national identity. While the visual representation of the Royal Arms aimed to communicate unity, the actual political integration of the two nations faced significant challenges, leading to a complex and storied journey towards a more unified kingdom.

Interesting Things with JC #036: "Indian Cuisine Influence in London" - Explore how London became a hub for Indian cuisine, boasting over 2,000 restaurants that offer an extensive range of dishes from across the Indian subcontinent. Learn about the historical waves of migration that introduced and popularized Indian culinary traditions in the UK, leading to beloved dishes like chicken tikka masala, humorously dubbed as "a true British national dish."

Interesting Things with JC #035: "Sorry - More Than Just an Apology in British Culture" - Discover the intricate ways "sorry" is employed in British culture, serving not only as an apology but as a tool for polite, indirect communication. From requesting repetition when something is misunderstood to signaling minor inconveniences or introducing requests, "sorry" is pivotal in smoothing social interactions.

Interesting Things with JC #034: "Stonehenge is Older than the Pyramids" - Explore Stonehenge, one of the most ancient and enigmatic structures in human history, predating even the Great Pyramids of Giza. This monumental stone circle on Salisbury Plain has served various roles—from a burial site to an astronomical observatory—reflecting the sophistication of its creators.

Interesting Things with JC #033: "The Petrifying Well" - Venture into the enigmatic world of the Petrifying Well located near Mother Shipton's Cave in Knaresborough, a place where science meets legend. This natural well, famous for its ability to encase objects in a stone-like shell through mineral deposition, intrigues scientists and mystics alike.

Interesting Things with JC #032: "Mother Shipton's Cave" - Delve into the storied depths of Mother Shipton's Cave, one of Britain's oldest tourist attractions, nestled in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire. This site honors the legendary prophetess Ursula Southeil, known as Mother Shipton, celebrated for her striking prophecies and mysterious origins.

Interesting Things with JC #031: "Saying What You Mean in Britain" - Unravel the intricacies of British communication, where euphemisms and understatement have deep historical roots in Victorian etiquette. This episode explores how phrases like “I might join you later” and “not bad” reflect a cultural preference for modesty and politeness, shaping interactions in intriguing ways.

Interesting Things with JC #030: "A British Riddle Part 2" - Dive into a poetic riddle that conjures visions of mystical lands and legendary tales. Can you figure it out?

Interesting Things with JC #029: "The Timeless Comfort of Toad in the Hole" - Toad in the Hole is a quintessential British dish that exemplifies the comfort and simplicity of traditional English cooking. Originating in the 18th century, it combines sausages with Yorkshire pudding batter, creating a satisfying meal that's both hearty and economical. This dish not only showcases the versatility of British cuisine but also remains a staple in family dinners and pub menus across the UK, cherished for its warm, comforting essence and historical roots.

Interesting Things with JC #028: "A British Love Story: Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton" - Explore the captivating and stormy relationship between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, whose love story is among the most famous in Hollywood history.

Their affair began on the set of "Cleopatra," leading to two marriages filled with extravagant gifts, dramatic public moments, and intense personal struggles.

Despite their eventual separations, their deep connection and the impact of their relationship on both their lives and careers left a lasting mark on the world.

Interesting Things with JC #027: "Professor Autry and the Alien Life Debate" - In a revealing interview on GB News, Professor Greg Autry, a former White House liaison at NASA, shared his perspectives on the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the competitive nature of the current space race.

Interesting Things with JC #026: "The Majestic Spinnaker Tower" - Discover Spinnaker Tower, a striking landmark in Portsmouth, England, standing 170 meters tall and designed to resemble a spinnaker sail. Since its completion in 2005, it offers panoramic views of the harbor, the English Channel, and the Isle of Wight, from three distinct viewing decks. This tower is not just a scenic spot but also a lively venue for various cultural and social events, reflecting its significant role in the local community.