Welcome to The Big Smoke Variety Show!
This week, we’re taking to the skies — and far beyond — with a celebration of whimsical, surprising, and deeply human modes of travel.
First up, we pop to our local, where the ceiling’s low but our questions are sky-high. This week’s Pub Quiz? A History of Basket Cases.
Then, Kevin meets legendary hot air balloon pilot Robin Batchelor to explore the history, his daring exploits, and the sheer joy of ballooning. From flying presidents and movie stars, to championing the heritage of flight in all its glory, Robin offers a delightful conversation packed with storytelling, adventure, and just the right amount of hot air.
After all those airborne antics, it’s time for our Parish Notices. This week, we explore modes of travel that don’t just move you — they connect you. From float planes to rickshaw rides, penny-farthings to tall ships, Kevin shares some of the most unique ways people around the world move with meaning — and what they reveal about our need for each other.
Feeling queasy from all that movement? Better book in with our resident GP… Dr. Quack returns with another historical deep-dive into medical madness. This week’s treatments include urine mouthwash, mouse-based wart remedies, and the slightly overzealous use of a hot poker. You’ll laugh, you’ll wince, and you’ll be glad you live in the modern age.
And don’t miss our Victorian Parlour Game of the week — Catch the Sausage — a competitive meat-based spectacle that’s perfect for your next summer BBQ.
Want more?
Visit thebigsmokevariety.com to sign up for our free newsletter.
Don’t forget to follow the show, leave a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend who needs a little lift.
Until next time — float free, travel weird, and we’ll see you soon in The Big Smoke.
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Links
British Balloon Museum and Library
British Balloon and Airship Club
Cutty Sark the historic tea clipper
Dr. Quack’s historical medical procedures
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Chapters
(00:00) Intro
(01:30) Pub Quiz: A History of Basket Cases
(02:30) Interview with Robin Batchelor
(45:02) Parish Notices
(53:28) Dr. Quack
(1:02:46) Victorian Parlour Game: Catch the Sausage
(1:05:06) Pub Quiz Answers
(1:07:13) Outro
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Credits
Hosted & Executive Produced by Kevin Bennett
Produced & Edited by Alex Graham
Assistant Produced by Adam Wright
Original music by Giles Terera
Music arranged and played by Joseph Atkins
Dr. Quack written and performed by Jolyon Coy
The British Balloon Museum and Library is generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund
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