Ep 82. Kai Widdrington, Gary Stringer (Reef), Ashley James & Lisa Francesca Nand

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 It’s time for another episode of The MarshyCast! 

This week’s episode comes hot off the heels of an incredible evening at the Radio Academy Awards, where I joined my fellow Express FM team members as we were nominated for Best Local Radio Station. We may have been the smallest station in the room, but being recognised alongside the industry’s biggest hitters was a win in itself — and a night to remember! 

Of course, don’t forget you can still catch my live shows on Express FM and HGV1 Radio throughout the week, and check out the Portsmouth People and Major Mum Hacks with Casey Major Bunce, podcasts via the Express FM website and socials. 

On this week’s bumper MarshyCast: 

🕺 Strictly Come Dancing’s Kai Widdrington chats about his high-energy new tour Evolution, the joy of dancing with the iconic Angela Rippon, and the fine art of balancing classic routines with fresh choreography. We also touched on his Southampton roots, his surprising love for Portsmouth, and the big finale in Fareham! 

🎸 Reef frontman Gary Stringer drops in to talk about the band’s 30th anniversary tour for Replenish, what it’s like performing songs from three decades ago, the breakthrough Sony MiniDisc advert that helped catapult them to fame, and whether new music is on the horizon. 

🤰 Broadcaster Ashley James opens up about the unspoken side effects of pregnancy and motherhood. We talked about why it's so important to shine a light on the realities women face — not just the picture-perfect version we often see. 

🌍 Travel expert Lisa Francesca Nand shares her top tips on affordable summer destinations, why steering clear of the tourist traps can actually level-up your holiday, and what she would consider her ultimate summer escape. 

Thanks, as always, for sticking around right to the end — you’re the podcast equivalent of a post-credits Marvel scene!
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Until next time! 

Find me on all social media @paulswampymarsh