Heart UK

We Will Get Past This

Join Sandi Toksvig for a daily perusal through her room of books, as she provides some succour for the soul whilst celebrating some forgotten (and unforgotten) characters in history; some heroic, others comedic and a few who are just downright idiotic. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:grey;" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:grey;" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.

Sandi Toksvig

Welcome back to Sandi's book of rooms! It's been a while, so Sandi thought it high-time to check-in and see how you're doing, and what a welcome sight that is as we find ourselves in lockdown part 2 of 2020. In this one-off episode, Sandi explores the date of 12th November, which happens to be the day that gave birth to the World Wide Web and changed our lives forever. We also learn who Pudge Heffelfinger was, that Emperors shouldn't be called 'Michael', and that blowing-up a whale is never a good idea. We also, as usual, will hear about some amazing women the history books have neglected to document - so thank heavens that Sandi has written her own almanac - inspired to do so by this very series. So sit back and relax once more in the warm glow ... you were missed.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

52 Popping-In To Say 'Hello...

Hello there, hope you're doing OK? In this episode, we can practically hear the engine revving, as Sandi prepares to take to the road and enjoy the kind of freedom we could have only dreamed of in recent times. In order to spend time with much missed family and to take a well earned break, this shall be the final episode in the current series of We Will Get Past This. Today, Sandi thinks about the women who blazed a trail on the roads, allowing us the privilege of independence today - it's a privilege not lost on any of us right now.As always, we hear about women who have been forgotten - or worse, removed from the annals of history. Even the overlords of Wikipedia seem to feel strongly about which women should be included on their pages, feel free to change that opinion, because you are indeed free to do so, whenever you like. But for now at least, Sandi bids a fond farewell and thanks you for stopping-by to say hello during these difficult few weeks and months. If you think you might miss these snippets of calm, why not go back and listen to them again - surely there will be things you would have forgotten? You can also WATCH this series on Sandi's YouTube channel, Vox Toks. Also, if you think a friend might benefit from the escapism of this series, then please do pass it along.Take care, be kind ...We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

51 Get Your Motor Running

Hello, how are you? Most of us have been living life in lockdown in elasticated waistbands, slouchy sweatshirts and no bra. Our bodies will go into shock the next time we put on a pair of jeans, or suit and tie! Today Sandi is pondering the clothes we wear and what is deemed acceptable attire for women. It's very difficult to ride a bike in skirts and corset - let alone fight the patriarchy, But who decided that women shouldn't wear the trousers and which countries have been the slowest in allowing the freedom of allowing the female species to don a pair of strides? Most of us are beginning to wear 'normal' clothes again as we emerge into the new world, so Sandi is doing the same and will begin to ease this show. She'll take a break for a few days and release the last episode on Friday 4th July 2020 .... just in time for the pubs to reopen. Until next week, take care ...We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

50 Who Wears The Trousers?

Hello there, how are you? Chances are, that you're listening to this very programme on your phone. It seems we do just about everything on our phones now, except the thing it was invented for - making phone calls.If Alexander Graham Bell could see how his invention has shaped our lives, wouldn't he be thrilled? I think we can all agree that we're grateful to those who pioneered the technology which has enabled us to stay in touch during times of isolation and in this episode, Sandi pays homage to those some of those characters...a fair few of them women would you believe?Take care and remember ...We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

49 A-Hoi Hoi

Hello, come on in ... When Sandi says that at the start of each episode, doesn't it actually make you think that you're stepping-in to her room of books? It's amazing the places one can travel to in the mind, and I'm sure many of us have imagined ourselves somewhere far-away and in easier times than the ones we see ourselves in now. White people have always lived in an easier world than those with darker skin and much of history has been written by that white, privileged hand. The history books need to be re-written to include the stories of black people in history and of those now, who are making it.Today, Sandi talks about some of the people who worked tirelessly for civil rights and who should be remembered for doing just that. What a shame those in privilege still haven't learnt that sharing it doesn't mean there will be less to go round. One day let's hope that ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

48 Common Dust.

Hello there, fancy a beer? Well, it's 5pm somewhere in the world isn't it? As much as it's nice to sit down for a refreshing tipple, a lot of women would have found their work loads vastly increased with having to look after children 24/7, as well as managing the home and probably a job too. The lion's share of domestic duties still always seems to fall on the female of the species, no wonder men are able to still dominate in just about every aspect of life, as they are free to pursue learning, ambitions and creativity. Despite the imbalance, there are so many women who have innovated, invented and inspired - most of whom aren't given the credit for their endeavours, or dismissed altogether. As always, Sandi does her bit to redress this injustice and today's episode is no different. Wouldn't it be marvellous if everyone could take this time to redress imbalance, admit mistakes and vow to be better? Well, one can dream...but, We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

47 He's Still Trump In A Powdered Wig

Hello, how are you doing? Today's episode was recorded when a certain senior adviser explained that they broke the lockdown in order to test their eyesight, rather than a belief that they were above the rules that they were part of setting ... Other countries must be looking on aghast at these details and who knows what we, ourselves will think when we look back on these most strange times.Taking a look back through history is of course what Sandi is doing on a daily basis for this podcast, but through different eyes of the men (because it would have been men) who wrote it all down. Perhaps if Sandi had been around to document the 'golden' age of piracy, school children would be learning about the female characters of that time, because being a man wasn't necessarily an essential requirement for the job, as you're about to hear.  Have a good day ... We Will Get Past This  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

46 May We STOP Living Through Interesting Times

Hello there, how are you doing? Despite the fact the human race is having a bit of a hard time at the moment, it's having a positive effect on the planet, which is able to breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy cleaner air, water and brighter night skies. Sandi takes the opportunity to look at the stars and at some of the women who were pioneers in aviation, despite living in an age where the odds were stacked against them. Perhaps when we can all take to the skies again, we may be more mindful of the effect it has on the planet ...maybe we can charter a hot air balloon instead? Chocs away ... We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

45 Oh Look! It's Halley's Comet.

Hello there, how are things with you? What are you up to whilst you listen to these podcasts? Walking? Running? Nothing at all? Perhaps you're using them as an accompaniment to getting household tasks done? Even though we're spending more time at home right now, it doesn't make housework any more appealing than it did before, but as Sandi points-out today; being house-proud didn't create penicillin. Sandi would much rather spend her time in her room of books, than with a hoover in her hand - which many of us can relate to - and all of us are grateful for, as it's this priority which allows We Will Get Past This to happen. So, however you choose to listen, whether it's to enhance a boring task, or relish in some 'me time', don't forget ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

44 It Has All Been Most Interesting

Hello, how lovely to see you again. Sandi's been busy curating another magical mystery tour through history for us all to sink-into, much like a warm bath. Today we get some important information for interacting with the local butcher, hear why you should rub egg white and brandy onto your nipples, take stock at how social distancing has impacted the usually lucrative condom market and then dive into ancient Greece and then look at how the ways women have been written about throughout history still have ramifications for us today...all of this, without even leaving your arm chair. Have a good day... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

43 Courtesans and Condoms

Hello there, how are you? Chances are, you've suffered some kind of distress in the past few weeks.Perhaps if we all shouted the international call of distress 'Mayday' everything would be fixed? This episode happens to have been recorded on May Day - otherwise known as the 1st May - but thankfully, doesn't find Sandi in any distress. In Sandi's travels along her bookshelves, it's come to her attention that every country around the world celebrates a form of May Day. For some it heralds the start of summer, for others, it marks the days getting chillier; for all though, it's a good excuse to open the wine and get one's dancing shoes on....something we could all do with right now. One day, we'll all dance together again....We Will get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

42 It's Always Summer Somewhere In The World

Hi there, how much do you know about the world of 'celebrity'? It's not a subject Sandi usually pays any mind to, but today the life and times of a certain Jocelyn Wildenstein have captured her interest. You may remember that the press, rather unkindly, dubbed Jocelyn 'The Bride of Wildenstein' on account of a dramatic change in her appearance, the reason for which, is nobody's business but hers. The bigger question is, why should anyone even care? Well, as this was recorded on National Honesty Day perhaps we should learn to focus on if we're being told an untruth by the people who really count and could do us harm? Just a thought.......Remember though, We Will Get Past This and that IS the truth.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

41 Ain't That The Truth?

We're back in Sandi's room of books, as she takes a break from her zumba - which is rather fitting as this episode was recorded on International Dance Day!Not only do we see Sandi celebrate this auspicious occasion, but also the anniversary of starch being introduced to the UK, so our collars would be floppy no more!Yes, the actual date this occurred is documented, but the name of the woman who the starch over and teaching everyone how to use it, wasn't deemed important enough to write down. We then take a journey through time and books from starched collars to Joan D'Arc and ending with a look at the female SOEs who lead the way in the defeat of the Nazi occupation of France. Only Sandi could start with Zumba and end with heroics of the resistance. What a journey.Don't forget ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

40 How DID Joan D'Arc Comb Her Hair?

Hello there, how much cheese have you been consuming of late? Most of us have been eating like it's Christmas day whilst we've been stuck at home and Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a cheese board. Sandi is certainly in a cheesy mood for today's episode, and inspired by the smell of stilton soup wafting around her house, she has dug-out some amazing stories which you curdn't make-up...ahem. We hear about an impromptu cheese festival at the Whitehouse which caused havoc, the story behind the invention of camembert and the tale of the well travelled goat who managed to circumnavigate the globe not just once, but twice. Pull up a cracker and remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

39 The Well Travelled Goat

Hello there, hope you're well? Did you intend to have written your bestselling novel by now, become fluent in Manderin or mastered the mandolin by now? It's no surprise you haven't been able to do any of that - times have been stressful and the great swathes of time we're supposed to have to 'sit around at home' are a myth for most of us. However, you can take 9mins out of your day for yourself and listen to today's episode and remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

38 There's Something About Mary

Hip-bath, hip-bath, lavatory, lavatory, bidet, bidet,douche.Don't worry Sandi hasn't reverted to toilet humour for this episode (although nothing really wrong with that is there?), it just looks as though we've caught her doing her vocal warm-ups - which is very professional - I'm not sure all podcasts are showing this level of dedication. With the theatres closed at the time of recording, once all the performers can get back to their craft, they'll no doubt one heck of a warm-up before that first performance.  Being in a theatre audience is one of the most exciting ways to watch a show - I mean, anything can go wrong and often does, as you'll hear in the episode. Someone who made a career of things going awry was the wonderful, Lucille Ball. If you don't know much about her then allow Sandi to wet your appetite and leave you wanting more.The show must go on and ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

37 Live Honestly, Eat Slowly & Lie About Your Age

Hello, here we are again. Sandi's at the ready with her Chambers book of days and arming us with the ability to be able to call something by it's 'real' name. Right now we could all do with a 'kindle' of kittens to cuddle and a lot less of 'Donald the Douchebag'Plus, if your friends ever refer to you as a 'gazooly' , this episode could provide the cure. Have a good day... We Will Get Past This.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

36 A Kindle of Kittens

Happy Fashion Revolution Day! Well, it was when Sandi recorded this episode anyway, so it might be a bit late for you to celebrate the occasion...but there's always next year. Far from being an occasion which celebrates the industry, it's there to raise awareness of those who are forced to work in inhuman conditions in order for us to have a new outfit for every occasion. New outfits aren't something that many of us have needed of late, although the 'grandmother crafts' which allow us to make a new jumper, dress or scarf are being employed by millions of us after having completed Netflix. The skill of knitting has been with us for at least a milenia and originated somewhere you might not associate with needing a cardigan.See you tomorrow and don't forget ... we will get past this.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

35 Thousand Year-Old Socks

Hello there, how are you keeping? If you're in need of a dazzling tale of bravery and persistence, then Sandi has just the thing in today's episode. The Japanese suffrage movement isn't often given much thought to those of us in the west, but it would appear that we've been missing out on an astounding tale of heroism in the face of extreme adversity, and the life story of a lady who changed the world for millions of women. It's a story which should have been immortalised on the silver screen by now, so if you feel inspired to write the screenplay after listening, then there's nothing to stop you. See you tomorrow ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

34 Who Are You Calling 'Violin Neck'?

Hello, on the day of recording this episode, it just so happened to be International Mother Earth Day. Even though we're forced to travel less and reduce the sizes of our physical worlds in the current climate, we're lucky enough to be in an age where technology enables us to keep in touch with our loved-ones, no matter how far away they may be. Sandi being a mother AND of the international persuasion, is an ideal companion for such a celebration and so, spends this episode talking about some of the characters who documented a race which had nothing but respect for mother nature and father sky... we could learn a lot from these people right now, as a bit of respect for our surroundings might have avoided a disease which has affected all of humanity....but nevertheless, We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

33 International Mother Earth Day

How many birthdays a year do you have? And are they all celebrated in each country at once? On the day of recording Sandi is somewhat perplexed at being informed that although it was The Queen's birthday, it would only be celebrated in The Falkland Islands... it's a long way to go for a bit of cake, but I'm sure they throw a lovely do. Not only does Sandi delve into the confusing subject of royal birthdays, but also looks into the fascinating background of royal bank 'Couttes' and how the whole sector would be seen as a service to help those in need, if it weren't such a boys club and the women were allowed to play too. Have a lovely day, even if it isn't your birthday anywhere and don't forget ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

32 Where Is My Birthday Happening?

Hello, how are you today? Sandi's contemplating the different forms of travel which enable the feeling of freedom. When you think of the advent of things such as the  bicycle and motorcar, these modes of transport gave women the kind of independent options never known to them before. Many women not only embraced these new machines, but used them to the full; breaking records in travel and pioneering new technologies including sat nav and indicators. As usual though, these female forerunners are hardly even mentioned when recounting such developments, let alone celebrated. Thank goodness for Sandi. We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

31 Life On The Open Road

Happy Primrose Day one and all - for that's what day it was when Sandi recorded this episode in her sanctuary of books. It seems a shame that such a festival isn't celebrated anymore, but as most of these occasions are based on myth and legend, it's not surprising that some of them fall by the wayside. But how do some myths become fact? It's true to say that history is only as reliable as the hand that wrote it down and so, this is only how someone as misinformed and stupid as Christopher Columbus could end-up as a national figure of celebration. Sandi explores some stunning examples of stupidity being re-written as that of heroics...enjoy and don't forget... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

30 When Myth Becomes Fact

Hello there, Sandi's got a few surprises in store for us today, so hang-on to your head, as you're likely to have your mind blown by revelations such as; Pope Alexander 6th sired somewhere between 7 and 10 children, Eve was Adam's SECOND wife - although is making a more obedient spouse from a spare rib just cheating? And the famous Egyption queen Cleopata, was in fact Cleopatra the seventh...perhaps ancient Egypt didn't have much imagination when it came to naming girls? More surprises from Sandi's bookshelves tomorrow, in the meantime remember ... We Will Get past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

29 An Abundance of Surprises

Hello, how are you doing today? The laws of probability dictate that it's 50/50 if you're having a good day or not ... or does it? How reliable are these laws of averages? Well, pretty reliable when it comes to the probability of the next pope being female, but as Sandi suggests, perhaps some kind of job share might work?How difficult can it be to canonise a woman - and is the process as painful as it sounds? Has there ever been a woman in the papal role? Well history would have us believe not, but evidence suggests that Pope Joan could have once been head of the Catholic Church, and being a martyr to the cause of celebrating forgotten women of history, Sandi brings her to life for us. Hoping your day is 100% a good one and if it isn't, try to remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

28 Pope Sandi The First

Hello there, how lovely to see you again. Today Sandi is contemplating the current situation we find ourselves in and how it inhibits the ability to come-up with any kind of new fiction...life is weird enough as it is! So, it's nice to have books that one can dip-in and out of and the 'Live-Wire Book Of British Women Achievers' is perfect for that. In this episode we get to hear about some female trailblazers who despite their womanly states, were able write for stage and books, which ultimately led to women finally being allowed to perform on the stage. We're all looking forward to a time when we can go and watch performers of all gender persuasions in theatres again - and one day it will happen because... We Will Get Past This.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27 Life Is Weirder Than Fiction

Hello and welcome to today's episode in which Sandi spares a thought for the much maligned mistresses who would have been suffering during quarantine. Social distancing and isolating would mean it's impossible for so many to be with the ones they love, even if the relationship is common knowledge - imagine how hard it will be for those deemed 'the other woman' to see their sweetheart ... even if their sweetheart is clearly a wrong'un to have the 'other woman' in the first place. There have been many famous mistresses in history, but many others are just mere footnote. And unfortunately the mother of one of history's most celebrated polymaths is one such footnote and only awarded the dubious title of 'Renaissance Mum' .. sounds like a bad sitcom. Enjoy and remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26 The 'Other' Martin Kemp

As this series indicates, every day of the year is a significant day in some way, whether it's the anniversary of an event, a leap in human advancement, or the date something ridiculous happened. Obviously, every day will see many people celebrating their birthday and on the date of recording, Sandi celebrated her son's big day from a distance in a style very much appropriate to him. How we celebrate birthdays is very much down to how much significance you put on the day - plus how large your bank balance is- or isn't. How much did Simon Cowell spend on his 50th? Well, it's small change in comparison to what the Sultan of Brunei lavished on his 2 week long spectacular.... it's true when they say money can't buy taste. However you celebrate your next birthday, may it be with the ones you love .... don't forget... We Will Get Past This Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

25 Blow-Out The Candles

Hello, do yo believe in faeries? Only, because Sandi thinks she may have a couple living in her book shelves. Even if you don't happen to think that's possible, there's someone, somewhere who believes it is. That's the thing about belief, humans have been relying on religious belief systems for thousands of years and whilst in many practices they are different, so much connects all of them. As Sandi records this, she - like most of us - is far away from many people she loves, but can offer a system of her own to connect, which may be of some comfort. So, tonight when you look-up at the moon, remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

24 Same Moon

Watch out, Sandi's got a book in her hand! If she were alive a couple of hundred years ago, she would have been deemed 'dangerous' for this. Surely, reading is one of the few pursuits where it's impossible to get into any trouble - unless you're doing it whilst driving I suppose? Not only was it thought a reading woman was a danger to the very fabric of society, but it was also thought that it would affect their reproductive abilities, or even give them flatulence ... although the latter is a rather excellent excuse don't you think? Opps sorry, not my fault, I was reading over the weekend. We all know what a struggle women have had (and still continue to have in many parts of the world) to have access to an education, so those who enabled females to have learning should be celebrated, and in today's episode you'll get to hear about Harriet E Giles and Sophia B Packard, who made it their lives work to improve lives of women who had been freed from slavery through schooling...what a heartbreaking sentence. Take care... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

23 It Wasn't Me, It Was All The Reading

Hello and welcome to today's corner of calm, as Sandi invites you to retreat with her to her room of books, where past lives of some great and (almost always overlooked) women are being brought into the spotlight. In this episode, we learn why we have Walt Disney's wife Lillian to thank for the most iconic cartoon character of all-time, that Alma Hitchcock's keen eye for detail saved her husband's film 'Psycho' from being a laughingstock and that in sacrificing her own career, artist Lee Krasner ensured her husband was to become a household name. Plenty to meditate on there ... although Sandi's not really a fan of that particular practice...books are far less stressful.So, sit back, close your eyes and remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

22 In front Of Every Great Women, There's a Man Blocking The View.

Today, as well as celebrating the written word, Sandi shows some appreciation for the ability to record and listen to the human voice - after all, without those pioneering first records, she wouldn't be in a position to speak to you now.But, when something is put-out into the world for public consumption, it's often the case that people feel the need to judge it; take YouTube for example, there's not a video on there where people haven't taken the time to give it a thumbs-up, or thumbs down. Being judgemental is obviously a part of human nature, but surely not everything needs our stamp of approval? Unless of course you're about to say something nice about this show in the comments below... you're actively encouraged to do that and whilst you do, remember ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

21 Thumbs-Up ... Or Is It Thumbs Down?

Today Sandi has some company whilst she peruses her shelves of books, as her dog Mildred pops-in with a request.It would appear that Sandi has yet to mention any canine tails of daring-do and knowing full-well that Mildred is head of the household, Sandi immediately sought to remedy this oversight. Not only will you get to hear how dogs were used as a kitchen time-saving device in days gone-by, but Sandi also covers some fascinating back-stories of dogs of the silver screen and would be impossible to talk hounds from history without acknowledging how they help us in times of need - and are happy to do so. And I'm sure man's best friend would also agree ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

20 A Request From Mildred

In a time when many relationships are under some rather intense scrutiny, Sandi happens to spot a story in her Chamber's Book of Days, which may tempt a few people listening to replicate. It's the story of a public auction held by Joseph Thompson in order to sell his wife Mary-Ann. Now, no matter how you might be feeling towards your spouse, it's not the best solution to put them up for sale - the postage alone would cost a fortune. On further inspection, Sandi has discovered that this wasn't the only tale of an ungrateful husband putting their wife up for sale, as it was seen as an easier and cheaper alternative to dissolving a marriage. It's almost as if women had no human rights at all, so thank goodness for the toils of Flora Tristan and if you don't know who she is, then Sandi is here to remedy that in this episode, as well as suggesting a small project for someone out there who may want to enable the world to have more access to information about Flora and what she did. Enjoy and don't forget ...We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19 Supermarket Spouse

As you know, these episodes are being recorded at a time when everyone is having to get-to-grips with brand new ways of communicating and entertaining. For many people alive today, the typewriter, landline telephone and only having 4 television channels are clearly within memory, so there might be some fears that now we know how to contact each other remotely, why bother meeting in the flesh again? Of course, this is completely baseless, as everyone is craving that holy grail of a simple hug with loved ones. But, new technology is always faced with suspicion and worry that it heralds the demise of future generations, as Sandi's books are able to prove... so if we can't embrace each other, let's embrace the technology which enables us to keep in touch and remind each other that ...We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

18 If I Can't Embrace You, I'll Embrace The New

Do children collect stamps anymore? Sandi's managed to unearth her own childhood collection, many of which are depictions of the American Civil War.This inspired a quest through the bookshelves to unearth and re-account some heroic - and largely overlooked - tales of women during that time. As a 16 year old girl, Sybil Ludington, took-on the task of riding 40 miles across the land, at the dead of night to warn of the approaching enemy troops. Whilst Sybil's story is passed-over in favour of that of a male who only rode half the distance, it leads Sandi to ponder, who gets to decide who the heroes are? We also get to hear about another brave, clever young woman, whose story has been immortalised - but almost completely inaccurately - there's even evidence to suggest that Pocahontas wasn't her real name.Take care, be kind...We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

17 The Criteria of Being a Hero

Welcome to another day in Sandi's favourite room, which is stuffed to the gills with books.Today, Sandi looks at the birth of circus and the characters who played a role in shaping the familiar show we see today. Philip Astley and his wife Patty Jones staged the first circus on a site believed to now house St Thomas' Hospital in London and unsurprisingly far more is written about Philip than Patty, who must have been a hugely accomplished equestrian and entertainer in her own right.The role of women in entertainment is of course played down throughout history, for example, it may surprise you to know that there were plenty of female jesters in royal court? You may also not be aware of Joseph Haines who made the career jump from member of parliament to comedian? Well, Sandi's books hold many surprises and so prepare to be amazed and remember... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

16 Sandi's Circus School

Today Sandi provides some wonderful escapism in the story of a life well lived.Lady Fanny Lucy Houston, wasn't born with a title, in fact her early life was one of poverty. So, how did she become the wealthiest woman in Britain?Her riches enabled her to not only indulge eccentricities, but to also become a leading light in the Suffragette movement and pioneer of aviation technology.If it hadn't been for Lady Houston, the outcome of WW2 may have been rather different. So, immerse yourself in this glorious tale of a woman we should have all learned about at school and remember, We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

15 The Extraordinary Times of Lady Houston

Surprise, surprise - here's Sandi with another nougat of calm for the day. And even though she hasn't left the left the house in weeks - the dark recesses of her kitchen cupboards have produced as many surprises as one might expect on Christmas Day. It must have also been one heck of a surprise to Ponce de Leon to look through his telescope and spot the coast of Florida, which is something Sandi explores in this episode, as well as the life and times of Maria Sibylla Merian - who was a significant contributor to entomology, and had to of course, battle the stigma of being female, in order to study and practise her passion, managing to write books on the subject AND raise silkworms whilst she was at it... perhaps that could be a good hobby during isolation?Sandi's back tomorrow, so no surprises there.Take care, We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

14 Sandi's Surprising Cupboards

This episode was recorded on April Fool's Day - although you could argue that most of us were in no mood for practical jokes this year, but in these times surely we should be aiming to keep a sense of humour wherever possible? Sandi muses on some April Fool's of the past which have taken-in whole nations and exposed how little we seem to know of the world in order to have been tricked in the first place. Sandi also introduces us to one Marie Sophie Germain - who despite being born into an era where women were not supposed to be educated in maths and science, determinedly gave herself enough of an education which would make her one of the sharpest mathematicians in history, and whose findings contributed to the construction of the Eiffel Tower. She should be a household name and that's no joke. Have fun and don't forget, We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

13 Practically Joking

How do you like your coffee? Well if it's anything like Sandi, you could listen to 3 of these episodes whilst waiting for it to pour - which would be an excellent use of your time.And whilst the world slows it's pace, we have to contemplate if that's exactly what we and the world have been crying out for?As always, Sandi treats us to some nuggets of calm from her books and today questions, just what is the rush?Will we want a walk in an ancient woodland when we have the freedom, or a high-speed train connection? Because it looks as though it's one or the other.Perhaps we should adopt a different structure of time? After-all the ancient Egyptians had a 10 day week - just think of how long a bank holiday weekend could last!So rather than 'grab' your coffee - listen to this and watch it slowly pour - and remember, We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12 Sandi's Spicy Slow Pour From Sudan

Today Sandi is taking pleasures in the childish things in life, which can be a huge tonic in times of difficulty.It's a shame that as adults, we don't indulge in childish play, as there are so many games to be enjoyed. If you are fining yourself spending the majority of the day / evening night alone, then why not have a go at the 'Wiki game' - Sandi will tell you how.As well as giving some tips on how to while away the hours in solitude, Sandi dips-in to female storybook characters, some of whom weren't the most inspiring role models for our 'stump' , whilst others - such as Pippi Longstocking - are still admired. It's only a bit of fun...so, enjoy. We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

11  Let's Not Put Childish Things Away

Sandi's back for her daily dose of calm and being a sticker for the rules means you'll find here every day.How is she a sticker though? What does that actually mean? Thank goodness Sandi has her book of days on hand to help us get to the answer. Our host also ponders on her school days and just why such strange rules were enforced on sanctioned shopping trips and if you've never heard the true story of the wrestling baron of Bunny Hall, then this episode will remedy that. Plus, we also find out just what one Ena Shaw did to assist a golfing tournament and shouldn't, in any circumstances be emulated!Take Care ... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10 The Wresting Barron of Bunny

Today's episode is filled with the aroma of a bowl of comforting, chicken soup - which is no mean feat for a podcast! As well as learning some spicy facts about food history, courtesy of 18th century food writer, Hannah Glasse, we also hear about the time Sandi learned a valuable life lesson in the markets of Mozambique. Plus, if you're missing the ambience of eating food in a communal setting, Sandi also has one or two suggestions which may help. So, pull-up a chair, ladle yourself a bowl of soup and remember... We Will Get Past This.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

9 Chicken Soup

How many times do we need to sing 'Happy Birthday' whilst washing our hands? Well, Sandi's opted a rather different tune for her ablutions as you'll hear, although on the day of record the tune of 'Happy Birthday' would have been rather apt, as it's the day Patty Hill was born... you know who she is don't you? Well if you would have sung that well known tune to her, she would have charged you, as she along with her sister Mildred, wrote the darn ditty!As well as an education into the Hill sisters, we also get one into Jane Coulden, whose work as a botanist is aiding Sandi in her new role in life, as a bee keeper... what extraordinary times we live in.... but, We Will Get Past This Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

8 Happy Birthday To The Bees

In today's snippet of calm, Sandi muses if we still have traffic wardens during a global pandemic? The role of the 'Angel of Siberia' in nursing history and celebrates another unsung heroine of medical research, Kate Marsden - who whose attempts to find a cure for leprosy, although unsuccessful, were nevertheless brave.So relax, take a deep breath and smell the coffee ... we will get past this. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

7 The Angel of Siberia

Happy EU talent day! What do you mean you've never heard of that? Next you'll be saying that you've also never heard of Lucy Townsend or Ida B Wells!Well thankfully Sandi is on hand with her 1929 edition of Encyclopedia Britannica to tell us about all of these things and a whole lot more besides, but Ida paved the way for the civil rights movement 70 years before Rosa Parks' own heroic actions.Have a break for a moment and remember, We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

6 Happy EU Talent Day!

Sandi takes a break from Zumba to let us all in to her room of books and today we hear about Anne of Denmark, who isn't to be confused with the Anne played by Olivia Coleman, but who in fact was wife to King James I and played a significant role in getting women on the stage...although he and her husband had some pretty idiotic arguments whilst she was achieving this.And Sandi also educates us all on the first (and only?) women to be banned from the Olympics after a champagne 'doping' scandal.Take care everyone, We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

5 You Can't Put A Woman on the Stage

At the time of recording this episode it was Mother's Day in the UK, but as we all know, we should appreciate our mums all year round. And so Sandi recites a poem by Anne of Greengables author Lucy Maude Montogomery for her own mum.Lucy coincidentally lived through the Spanish Flu epidemic one hundred years ago and so serves as a reminder that, We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2 Mother's Day

Sandi opens her book of days so we can go on a magical journey, starting with the Duchess of Brunswick (sister to 'mad' King George III , no less), then moving on to artist Angelica Kauffman - - who helped establish the Royal Academy of Art - we also stop-by to have a look at the woman who swallowed a padlock (it's difficult NOT to look at that), which brings us neatly on to Monsiuer Mangetout, who could comfortably polish-off a jumbo jet for his lunch... there are some strange people about aren't there?Whether your one of life's strange folk or not, don't forget that We Will Get Past This Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

3 Doctor, Doctor, I've Swallowed A Padlock

Sandi's here again to mine some gems from her room of books, and today shares some fascinating tales of forgotten women from history (as they almost always seem to have been), including Victorian artist Rosa Bonheur; who as a trouser wearing, cropped haired, smoker was something of a trailblazer.We find out that not only was Johann Wolfgang von Goethe a REALLY annoying child, but we also learn that if it hadn't been for his wife, Christiane Vulpius, he would have fallen foul of Napoleon's army in the most humiliating way...and they got past that, so We Will Get Past This. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 Napoleon's Real Waterloo

Welcome to We Will Get Past This, with Sandi Toksvig, who invites you into her room of books so she can help transport you away from the current world and the difficulties we find ourselves in.To start things-off, Sandi dips into her 'Book of Days' and discovers a forgotten heroine of the English civil war (depending on which side you're on). Although it does start with a beheading in 1330, things soon pick-up when we hear about Charlotte Trémoille, Countess of Derby and her courageous exploits, which inspired one Letitia Elizabeth Landon to write a poem about her.... not bad for a day's work, as you'll soon hear.Sit back, relax and remember... We Will Get Past This.See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.