Mondays with Milly

S10 Ep15: Discussing D-Day - the day that changed the world Jun 06, 2024

June 6th, 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion: the largest amphibious assault in history. Milly and I discuss the day itself and what it means; Milly shares her insights and recollections of the event which changed the world and cost so much.

S10 Ep14: From Geneva with Love Aug 17, 2023

Greetings loyal listeners!

It's been a while since our last episode but here is our catch-up from Kirsten's recent visit home via Geneva for a flying visit to the World Health Organisation. Niamh performs a beautiful rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "Songbird" (requested by a few of you via the MwM Facebook page). Thanks go to "Piano Matt" Heinrich for his work on the keys. Enjoy!

S10 Ep13: Coronation #3: Milly's Third May 12, 2023

How does the coronation of King Charles III compare with those of Elizabeth in 1953 and George in 1937?

What better way to find out than ask someone who was there for all three, right? In this episode, Milly gives us a great insight into coronation ceremonies past and present and speaks passionately about royalty, family and legacy.

S10 Ep12: Celebrating 100,000+ Listens of MwM Apr 21, 2023

It's been a while between episodes but Milly is back and this week we're celebrating the milestone of passing the 100,000 listens mark of MwM. We get Milly's reaction to your thoughts and messages of support, as well as discuss the upcoming coronation of King Charles. Milly is excited about witnessing her second coronation ceremony and has some interesting insights. Thanks to Niamh's year 12 music teacher, Ash Griffin, who provided the beautiful guitar accompaniment for "Bedouin Song" (originally by Lior).

S10 Ep11: Happy 92nd Birthday Milly! Feb 02, 2023

Happy 92nd birthday, Milly!

After a long and frustrating illness, Milly is back doing what Milly does best. This week we cover quite a list of topics: the loss of Sam (aged 102), Kirstens visit from late last year, Christmas, cruises and the thing that Milly loves more than anything - the arrival of family. This year Milly will be hosting a visit from Niamh and after more than three years I’ll be seeing her in August. And I can’t wait!

S10 Ep10: Irene Oct 11, 2022

Welcome to this week's episode of the MwM podcast.

Today we reflect on the life and loss of Milly's beautiful sister-in-law, Irene, with whom she shared a special bond.

Join us on the MwM Facebook page for extra content.

S10 Ep9: QE2 Sep 26, 2022

Today we reflect...

Queen Elizabeth II's death marks a significant in history so in this episode we spend some time reflecting on the way the country said its goodbyes. Milly has had an eventful stint in hospital and tells us what that was like. This week Niamh sings Renee Geyer's, "Heading in the Right Direction". Shout-out to her music exam accompanyist, Mitch, who joins us on piano.

S10 Ep8: Random Acts of Kindness (and some Hair Raising Adventures) Aug 21, 2022

In this episode of MwM, I catch up with Milly and her eldest son, Paul, who's visiting from Scotland. The love, warmth and natural humour between mother and son shines through in this light-hearted conversation. We talk about Milly's latest digital project, kindness and some hair-raising driving adventures.

And thanks to Piano Matt for yet another beautiful piece for us to collaborate on.

S10 Ep7: Hardship Now and Then Jul 07, 2022

Things are pretty tough in 2022 - the rising cost of living crisis, the war in Ukraine and geo-political tensions. In this episode I ask Milly to ponder those times in her life where she can draw comparisons to the present day situation and in true Milly-style she offers some gems and the odd dose of perspective.

Milly and I thank you all for sticking with our passion project podcast and if you're new to Mondays with Milly, check out S1 Ep1 to find out where Milly's story begins.

Join the conversation via the MwM Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S10 Ep6: Much Ado about the Platinum Jubilee Jun 05, 2022

This weekend Britain and parts of the Commonwealth celebrated Queen Elizabeth's 70 year reign - and Milly's been there for every bit of it. In this episode Milly ponders the mood of the country and gives us an insight into how so many people in Britain have marked the event and made lasting memories of their own. And it's only fitting that Niamh sings our rendition of Land of Hope and Glory.

S10 Ep5: Treasures in the Loft May 23, 2022

When Kirsten finally went home to visit Milly recently they made up for time lost to lockdowns and managed some high quality time together. In this episode they reflect on what it all meant to both of them, including some interesting discoveries from the loft.

S10 Ep4: Ten Pound Poms and Telephone Calls May 01, 2022

In this episode we hear the second part of Milly's and my conversation with Superfan, John.

John's shared experience is explored further as we delve into the politics of the late 1940s, emigrating, home births and the arrival of telephones. Piano Matt joins us in this week's song and does an incredible job on the keys. Thank you for your ongoing support, Matt. It's greatly appreciated.

S10 Ep3: Superfan #1 Apr 11, 2022

Welcome to our new episode of MwM.

In this episode I invited a good friend of mine, John, to join us for a chat. John is a Superfan of the podcast and was visiting me back in January when his questions about Milly prompted me to say, "Well, why don't you ask her yourself?".

John's parents shared similar stories with him growing up. This is part one of our conversation...

S10 Ep2: A Big Day in Blackpool Mar 14, 2022

On any given Sunday, Milly heads off to church followed by tea and biscuits.

But today was special. Milly was invited to visit The Doll's House in Carshalton Road, Blackpool (S9 Ep6) - known better for its modern day title: "Serendipity". The Harvey family welcomed Milly and Kirsten with open arms and Milly got to see the house she loved - 57 years on.

Check out what happened (photos of the visit have been posted to the Mondays with Milly Facebook page).

S10 Ep1: We're Back! Milly Answers the Call Feb 26, 2022

Milly and Phill are back by popular demand. And on that same theme, so is Kirsten - who is on her way back to the UK for the first time in three years. Milly can't wait. In this new season we'll talk all things past, present and future.

Thanks to all the loyal listeners who've shared questions, comments and sent messages of support for our podcast. MwM will continue on a semi-regular basis. Please join us on the MwM Facebook page and if you have a spare minute or two a review of the podcast is greatly appreciated.

91 reasons to celebrate... Feb 02, 2022

Welcome to this special bonus episode of MwM. In this one we're celebrating a number of milestones...

Closing in on 50,000 listens across 66 countries, Milly has been having an absolute ball talking to media in Australia and the UK over the past month. And today she turns 91.

Happy 91st birthday, Milly!

S9 Ep12: The Finale Dec 24, 2021

After more than 65 episodes and almost as many songs, this episode is our last.

What parting gift do you give to an amazing woman who has everything she needs and wants and whose longevity spans 10 decades? The answer is simple: you give her messages of love, support and gratitude. And that's what this episode is all about.

Thank you Milly - for your warmth, your honesty and your gift of story telling. There are more than a few valuable lessons contained within and you've given your family a powerful legacy for generations to come. You've also provided me with a tremendous resource for the classroom.

Thank you to anyone who's cared to listen - if only for a passing moment. We hope Milly's stories made you pause and ponder.

And thank you to my wonderful and talented daughter, Niamh, whose willingness to pick up songs spanning eras and genres made me shake my head many times. As you get older you'll come to fully appreciate the power of what you've done for others, Niamh. The love and bond between you and Milly will endure.

And if you're new to the podcast and wonder what all the fuss is about - I recommend S1, Ep1: Meet Milly from Moss Side, Manchester.

Phill Cristofaro - December 25th, 2021

S9 Ep11: The Voice behind the Voice Nov 28, 2021

It's time to unmask The Voice behind the voice. Niamh joins us at the end of a very busy day doing what she loves most. You'll feel the love and affection between Milly and her granddaughter Down Under. We also discuss some of the things making news locally in the UK.

S9 Ep10: Feeling "Frowsy", Fashion and Faux pas Nov 21, 2021

Following on from episodes three and four in this series, we finish off with some cracking yarns about alcohol, high (home-made) fashion and the odd faux pas.

Please enjoy and don't forget to write a review.

S9 Ep9: Fox, Milly and the Friendly Ghost of Carshalton Road Nov 14, 2021

Milly's in for a surprise when she takes my call this week...

I've managed to track down the current owner of 47 Carshalton Road, Blackpool: the subject of recent episodes pertaining to a friendly ghost who goes by the name of "Nanny". Fox Harvey has generously agreed to join me and he and Milly hit it off. You'll feel the warm glow from two people who share one thing in common: they've both been owners of what was, and is, a very special home. If 47 Carshalton Road could talk it would tell some interesting tales.

Please enjoy this episode of MwM.

S9 Ep8: Facebook Reaction Show Pt 2 Nov 07, 2021

The second part of Milly's reaction to comments on Facebook about the Carshalton Road house. Milly takes it all in and you can hear the delight in her voice. It didn't take long to track down the current owner of The Doll's House - many thanks to Fox Harvey for the kind offer of photos for Milly to check out how the house looks in the present day.

S9 Ep7: Facebook Reaction Show Oct 31, 2021

Milly doesn't do Facebook but you'll hear her reaction to the many comments on Facebook about the "Doll's House" - home of Nanny and a long list of families who've come and gone from the house at 47 Carshalton Road, Blackpool.

Here's a link to our post on the History of Blackpool Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blackpoolhistory/permalink/1824899174362081/

Join us on the MwM Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

If you like what you hear, please write us a review or share MwM with your friends and family.

S9 Ep6: Ghostly Encounters in Blackpool Oct 24, 2021

What's "The Doll's House"? Who's "Nanny"? And what keeps moving the plates around at number 7 Devonshire Road? All these questions and more will be answered in this paranormal episode of MwM. Another big thank you to Piano Matt who kindly offered his considerable talents to what we think is a hauntingly beautiful song.

Check out photos of The Doll's House and 7 Devonshire Road via the Mondays with Milly Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S9 Ep5: From Twin-Tubs to iPads - Gizmos & Gadgets over the Journey Oct 17, 2021

In episode #5 Kirsten joins me to talk about technology through the ages. From Milly's first "Twin-Tub" washing machine to her iPad, there's a story behind each and every weird and wonderful time-saving tool.

This week's music includes a special guest: Matt "The Manouver" Heinrich joins us on the ivories and brings a touch of polish and colour. Matt is a good friend of the MwM podcast. Thanks Matt. Let's see if we can talk him into doing an encore.

S9 Ep4: The Chaser feat. Milly Oct 10, 2021

Round 2 of the Milly Quiz looks more like an episode of The Chaser. Milly reflects on some key moments and adds some new insights into some pivotal moments from seasons one through eight.

Can you outwit Milly? There's only one way to find out...

S9 Ep3: It's Quiz Time! Oct 03, 2021

With nine seasons of Milly's story documented, it's time to test your knowledge and pit your memory against Milly's steel trap of detail. A series of questions related to the entire podcast will examine some of the more minute details of the MwM podcast. We can only wish you luck.

S9 Ep2: Bark Three Times for Emergency Assistance Sep 26, 2021

Welcome to S9 Ep2 of Mondays with Milly.

In this episode Milly gives us an idea of the trials and tribulations of living with low vision and what friends, their dogs and a bit of technology can do to help.

S9 Ep1: Friends Sep 19, 2021

Welcome to Season #9 of Mondays with Milly and thanks for coming along for the ride.

In the first episode of this season I ask Milly about her friends. Milly makes friends easily and they're a very important part of her life and story. Please enjoy.

S8 Bonus: Tales from the Van to the Kennel Sep 12, 2021

In the second part of this bonus episode, Paul delves deeper into the mind and psyche of Paul's trusty police dog, Zac. Since his retirement, Paul spends his time supporting dog owners and various dog charities in the UK and abroad.

You can find out more about Paul's business, Wolfspeak here: https://www.wolfspeak.co.uk

S8 Bonus: PC Paul - A Road Less Travelled Sep 05, 2021

Welcome to the Mondays with Milly podcast.

In celebration of our 5000th listen spanning 29 countries, Milly and I chat with Paul about joining the constabulary with a single goal in mind: the "dead end" job of becoming a police dog handler.

S8 Ep7: Potato Cakes, Property and the Strathmore 5000 Aug 29, 2021

In this episode Milly and I try and work out how there can be a property boom amongst the chaos of Covid 19. Milly talks potato cakes and reflects on the difficult decision of whether or not to move to Australia. One thing is as certain as it is vivid: the Strathmore 5000 should be on everyone's bucket list.

S8 Ep6: My Beautiful Balloon Aug 22, 2021

What do you give someone who's lived a full life and wants for nothing?

In this episode Milly recounts the wonderful experience that can only come with a wicker basket and a lot of hot air. Milly takes us ballooning and we're not sure she ever made it down.

S8 Ep5: With Three Minutes to Spare Aug 15, 2021

Milly's last trip to Australia happened when she was 84. She'd done the trip before but this time 20,000kms took more of a toll than usual. Milly also has the odd brush with authority and manages to talk her way out of trouble.

S8 Ep4: 39 Years... Aug 08, 2021

Across Milly's 90 years she had at least one child at home for 39 of them, such was the age gap between Paul, Christopher and Kirsten. And there's one common theme across all 39 of those years. We chat further with Paul and Chris about life with Milly.

S8 Ep3: Meet Milly's Boys - Paul & Christopher Aug 01, 2021

In seasons three and four you'll remember Milly talking about her boys and her reflections on becoming a parent. Now it's Paul and Chris' turn to give us their take.

What was Milly like as a mum and what was it like growing up?

You'll find their points-of-view similar...and different.

Find out why in this episode of MwM.

S8 Ep2: Tom (Pt 2) Jul 25, 2021

In episode #2 we learn more about Milly's life living with Tom. Both have their health challenges and but find ways to complement each other's strengths and weaknesses. When Milly loses Tom she loses more than just a house mate, she loses one of her oldest and dearest friends.

S8 Ep1: Tom (Pt 1) Jul 18, 2021

Welcome to Season #8 of MwM. In S8 we explore Milly's 80s. It was in 2013 that one of Milly's oldest and dearest friends - and JC's bestie - moved in with Milly after both of them had lived alone for a number of years. In this episode, Milly introduces us to Tom: gentleman, staunch Labour supporter and fixer of all things. And happy 17th birthday to Niamh who sings "Sweet Disposition" by The Temper Trap.

S7 Ep7: Knocking on Heaven's Door Jul 11, 2021

In this final episode of S7, Milly and Kirsten discuss Milly's near-death experience (another one) - and the intervention of her family in helping her to bounce back.

Milly also talks about the impact the iPad has had in improving her quality of life in lockdown and with low vision.

Niamh was unable to perform this week's song due to illness so we've reprised one from an earlier episode.

S7 Ep6: Backpacking with Milly (and Kirsten) Jul 04, 2021

Episode 6 of this season is a special one. Kirsten joins the conversation to discuss how her 14 month backpacking trip changed her and her relationships with family.

If you like this podcast, please leave us a review.

S7 Ep5: A Year to Remember Jun 27, 2021

In episode seven, Milly remembers with the love and fondness a wonderful year: the 12 months she got to spend with her Australian grandchildren. Milly's enduring relationship with all of her grandchildren is built upon human connection and Milly's unconditional love. You'll feel it in droves in this episode.

Please enjoy...

S7 Ep4: Chris in Command, The Dog Whisperer and 007 Jun 20, 2021

In episode four Milly gets to visit Christopher at work and Paul is off to Kilmany in Scotland to train dogs - lots of them! And Milly is the sort of grandma who's happy to play a foil to Alex's best 007 impersonation but a few things can go missing in the process - all for very good reasons, of course.

Join the Mondays with Milly Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S7 Ep3: Kirsten Comes Home Jun 14, 2021

Living abroad is tough when you're a close family. The 2000s saw Kirsten's family grow and despite the regular visits between continents the loss of JC amplified the tyranny of distance. And so in 2007 Kirsten and her crew packed up and moved over to St Annes-on-Sea for a year to live and work. It was a treasured time for Milly.

S7 Ep2: Losing JC Jun 06, 2021

In the 2000s there was another pandemic wreaking havoc on the world: it was called SARS. Milly and JC were on their way through Singapore when JC contracted the virus and it had a devastating impact on the family.

S7 Ep1: A New Millennium - Bugs, 9-11 and Babies May 30, 2021

Where were you when the clock ticked over to a new millennium?

Milly and JC were having a quiet celebration with their old friends, Bob and Barbara. The opening of the Millennium Dome seemed a bit much for the Queen but Milly remembers the hysteria surrounding the so-called, 'Millennium Bug'. Milly has a trip to Australia to spend time with her new grandson and it's while she's there that 9-11 shocks the world into a new reality.

Please enjoy this new season of Mondays with Milly.

S6 Ep7: The Wedding of the Decade May 23, 2021

In this final episode of series #7 we talk dogs, houses and weddings. And not just any wedding - this one was special for a number of reasons. Kirsten gets married and is able to celebrate the event twice on opposite ends of the globe. Milly is thrilled and things settle down once again.

Please join us in the next series as we move into the naughties.

S6 Ep6: A 70th Birthday to Remember May 16, 2021

In episode 6, we hear about the fall of the Iron Curtain. A huge event for the world but life in St Annes-on-Sea goes on as normal. Chris has a chance to command HMS Lancaster and there's a bravery award for Paul. JC is in for one very pleasant surprise.

S6 Ep5: There and Back Again - Welcome to Terra Australis May 09, 2021

With the emigration of Kirsten to Australia the frequent flyer miles piled up as Milly and JC became adept at long haul travel. Australia becomes a second home while Christopher and his family make the move back to St Annes-on-Sea.

Welcome to our new listeners from South Korea and Argentina.

Don't forget to join the Mondays with Milly Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S6 Ep4: Home and Away May 02, 2021

Between late 1992 and for all of 1993 Kirsten is away and communication is a complicated thing. Expensive phone calls are a regular expense. Eventually Kirsten comes home - but not for long - and Milly is faced with a bitter-sweet reality.

S6 Ep3: The "Bride's Ale" and an Odyssey from New York to Nepal Apr 25, 2021

In episode three, Milly waves goodbye to the last of her three children who finally leaves the nest for work and bigger things. JC has found a new hobby - home brewing - and it's no picnic. In fact, there's evil in some of those bottles. Kirsten is off on the trip of a lifetime and won't be home for 14 months.

A warm welcome and greetings to our new listeners from Argentina.

Oh, and happy birthday, "Colonel".

S6 Ep2: Vale Prince Phillip - a Colourful Life and a Lasting Legacy Apr 18, 2021

I wonder what would've been like to have had the Duke of Edinburgh on the podcast talking to Milly about love, life and perspective...

This week marks the passing of yet another member what Tom Brokaw refers to as the Greatest Generation. Milly was lucky enough to have met Prince Phillip - yet another panel in the tapestry of Milly's rich and wonderful life.

Milly talks about the Duke and some more about Chris' time in the Gulf.

Please join the MwM Facebook page to check our more Milly-related content: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S6 Ep1: Boats, Ships and Zac the Police Wonder Dog Apr 11, 2021

Welcome to the 1990s.

In season 6 we'll explore the happenings and happenstance surrounding this eventful time. In episode #1, Milly tells us about making ball dresses for Kirsten, Chris' experience of the first Gulf War and Paul's first police dog, Zac.

Please enjoy this episode of Mondays with Milly.

S5 Ep5: It's a Mad House! Apr 05, 2021

Pet rats, snakes and alligators in the bath: just another day for someone who owns a pet shop. But for one relative visiting the family it was all too much...

Welcome to our final episode of season five. In this episode, Milly finds herself in her happy place - on the stage - this time with daughter, Kirsten. We thank you for your continued support of the Mondays with Milly podcast.

Join the MwM Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S5 Ep4: The Poll Tax and PTSD Mar 28, 2021

The Poll Tax: the Thatcher government's controversial tax, which was ultimately its undoing.

In this episode, Milly and I discuss the Poll Tax and cover Paul's traumatic injury, which he suffered whilst on patrol late at night. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) wasn't understood in the 1980s and it was the work of a police psychologist who helped Paul get back to work.

If you're enjoying this podcast, please write us a review.

S5 Ep3: The Falklands Mar 21, 2021

The Falklands War was a brief but costly conflict involving British and Argentinian forces between April and June of 1982 over the disputed Falklands Islands - a British territory. In this episode, Milly talks about Chris' near involvement, the armchair perspective of watching the war on the nightly news and the aftermath. Thank you for your ongoing support of the MwM podcast and a warm welcome to listeners in the Maldives.

S5 Ep2: Cash Points, Credit Cards, Computers & Famous Folk Mar 14, 2021

Welcome to the MwM podcast and a Happy UK Mother's Day to all the mums out there. In episode two, Milly talks about her first experiences with the work computer and it doesn't go well. Milly and Marilyn have a clockwork system going in the tourist information office but everyone's expected to get on board with the new technology. Milly meets Jesus (at least the actor who plays him, Robert Powell) and she tells a wonderful story about pianist, Winnie Atwell. Please enjoy and don't forget to write us a review.

S5 Ep1: The Lady's not for turning: change is on the way Mar 07, 2021

Welcome to our fifth season of Mondays with Milly.

Thank you to all who continue to listen - and to all our new listeners across 17 countries.

In season five we take a close look at the 1980s. After the turmoil of the 1970s you'd be forgiven for thinking things might settle down. On the contrary, Margaret Thatcher has very big plans to transform the country and her agenda is a controversial one. Milly is one of 60% of women in the workforce and she reflects on the politics of the day.

Join our Mondays with Milly Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S4 Ep5: Viva Blackpool Vegas - let's head down to the Golden Mile Feb 28, 2021

"Blackpool Vegas" - an apt description, indeed!

In this second part of our look at 1970s Blackpool, Milly describes the attraction that's Blackpool; live shows, side shows, crowds and a bustling tourism industry. The decline comes in the form of cheap overseas holidays and Blackpool's peak is soon on the wane.

Thank you for your ongoing support of the MwM podcast. We'll be back to talk the 1980s in season five.

The Mondays with Milly Facebook page hosts photos and videos from back in the day: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S4 Ep4: Blackpool 1970s Style: cinemas, cars, crowds & carriages Feb 21, 2021

The Blackpool of the 1970s is punctuated by throngs of cars, crowds and train carriages pulling into Central Station. It's still a vibrant place and a first-choice destination for thousands of families looking for a seaside holiday. In this episode Milly reflects on the Blackpool experience and laments the loss of so many of the areas cinemas.

If you like the Mondays with Milly podcast, please leave us a review.

The Mondays with Milly Facebook page can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S4 Ep3: You're not in a posh hotel now, you know... Feb 14, 2021

In S4, episode 3 Milly and I discuss the endemic racism that was prevalent in Britain during the 1970s - as it was in other countries. It was a difficult decade socially and economically but Milly and the family weren't directly exposed to the tensions being broadcast on the evening news. The country was changing rapidly but the family's luck had finally held as both Milly and JC worked steady jobs.

Please don't forget to review the podcast and join the MwM Facebook group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S4 Ep2: Anarchy in the UK Feb 07, 2021

Britain of the 1970s is in trouble. The oil crisis, a worldwide recession with 40% inflation and political turmoil marked something of a political awakening in the UK.

In this episode, Milly gives us an insight into the modern family - two working parents juggling the demands of the day. The decisions made are the right ones and life settles.

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90th Birthday Bonus Episode: Noisy Neighbours Feb 01, 2021

Happy 90th birthday, Milly!

This special bonus episode marks Milly's 90th birthday.

"Noisy Neighbours" is a memoir of the sometimes weird and sometimes wonderful neighbours Milly crosses paths with.

Please feel free to wish Milly a happy birthday via the Mondays with Milly Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S4 Ep1: The War Memorial Home Jan 31, 2021

Milly's family moves into the 1970s with a new addition and some new opportunities. The Britain of the 1970s is altogether different from the one a decade earlier and there are challenges ahead.

Please enjoy this first episode of Mondays with Milly.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S3 Bonus: More Bushy Tales Jan 24, 2021

Following-on directly from last week's bonus episode, More Bushy Tales gives us a fascinating look at life in the Bush Inn, Wigan.

Don't forget to join the Mondays with Milly Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S3 Ep4: Losing Harry Jan 24, 2021

Welcome to this final episode of season # 3 of Mondays with Milly.

The loss of the family's patriarch is more than just a shock; it has both short and long-term ramifications. JC's job with Boeing in the US is no longer a viable choice and the family makes the decision to stay in the UK and rebuild financially.

Join the MwM Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S3 Bonus: Bushy Tales - Tales from the Bush Inn Jan 17, 2021

With the discovery this week of the Wigan World website, the Mondays with Milly podcast has a extended its audience to Wigan. Welcome to patrons from that part of the world, with a special mention for Steve Breheny and Belinda Denholm - Jackie Sharple's nephew and daughter, who I contacted via the Wigan World website. The world is indeed small.

In this bonus episode, Milly takes us into the Bush Inn for a refreshing and light-hearted look inside. There are lots of tales to tell so there will be another bonus episode next week.

S3 Ep3: I'm just like you...I'm a "Bush Baptist" Jan 17, 2021

Stolen pies...broken promises...another career change.

Managing the Bush pub calls for a very specific set of skills. Milly and JC have doubled the takings in just two years and are promised a bigger and better opportunity close to home. It doesn't turn out that way and the family take a step backwards by purchasing a grocery business with a cash-flow problem. The big house becomes a much smaller one.

Join the MwM Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S3 Ep2: Would you like to run a Pub? Jan 10, 2021

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to quit your job - a well-paid one you love - and manage a pub?

That's exactly what JC does and life takes yet another adventurous turn. Life in the pub is hard work but a vibrant place full of colourful characters, like Jackie Sharples whose party trick is back flips off the bar.

Please enjoy this episode of Mondays with Milly. Don't forget to write a review and join our Mondays with Milly Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S3 Ep1: Dodging Bullets - Thalidamide, Plane Crashes & The Cuban Missile Crisis Jan 03, 2021

Welcome to the 1960s - an exciting time...a dangerous time.

In episode one of season three we enter this new decade with Milly's family growing. Paul is adopted by JC - not without difficulty - and Christopher comes onto the scene. Milly and her family can count themselves lucky as they manage to somehow avoid catastrophe and the world watches as the Cold War heats up.

Please take the time to join the Mondays with Milly Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S2 Ep6: But you've already proposed to me... Dec 27, 2020

In this final episode of season 2 of Mondays with Milly, things are happening.

Milly and JC are ready to tie the knot - after a decade or so apart. JC is in for a bit of a shock when he's expected to pitch in and lend a hand around the house as both he and Milly hold down full-time jobs. Paul and JC bond immediately and the family is ready to face the 1960s.

Don't forget to join the Mondays with Milly Facebook page to see photos from each era and ask Milly a question or two.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/368558144406079

S2 Ep5: Gremlins, Fairies and JC Dec 20, 2020

In episode 5 Milly's on the move. Harry decides it's time to sell up the Presall house and send each couple off to buy their own homes. As a single woman, Milly has to come up with a bigger deposit and Harry is there by her side. JC comes back on the scene and the courting ritual begins yet again, this time on very different terms.

Please take the time to join the Mondays with Milly Facebook page where you can see images from each era and ask Milly a question or two.

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S2 Ep4: I Smell a Rat... Dec 13, 2020

After the sudden and shocking betrayal of her husband, Milly makes the best of the situation by focusing her energy on her family. Milly faces the harsh judgements of others, despite being blameless, and attempts to have the details of her divorce kept private. In the 1950s divorces are published in the local paper and Milly is even snubbed at her local church. Milly's family invest in chickens and sell eggs and tomatoes on the roadside to supplement the household income. And then one day the rats return...

Please enjoy episode four, season #2 of Mondays with Milly.

S2 Ep3: My Husband left for his interview and I didn't see him for 30 years... Dec 06, 2020

In episode #3 Milly marries and starts a family. Paul arrives in 1951 and life in the large Preesall house is pretty good; the extended family are all together under one roof, there's plenty of room for everyone and Milly is in a good place. That changes the day her husband Bob leaves the house for a supposed job interview and doesn't come home. In that moment, Milly becomes a single parent.

We hope you enjoy this week's episode of Mondays with Milly.

S2 Ep2: Out of the Confessional and into the Pub Nov 29, 2020

What do you do when you're a restless young adult and the war's over? Simple: you work a series of jobs and get busy socialising. And that's exactly what Milly does in episode two. Milly becomes frustrated with the growing list of young men wanting to emigrate to Canada and is faced with a sliding door decision.

Please enjoy this episode of Mondays with Milly.

S2 Ep1: Harry, Hope and Haberdashery Nov 22, 2020

The end of WW2 brought a sense of hope to Milly and her family. Milly's dad, Harry, puts on a brave face but continues to struggle emotionally from the loss of his beloved, Doris. Life goes on and Milly decides to leave school and join the workforce. There's no shortage of jobs and sense of optimism, despite continued rationing. Then, one day while window dressing, Milly has a chance meeting with JC.

S1 Bonus Episode: School Days Nov 15, 2020

This bonus episode of Mondays with Milly focuses on Milly's recollections of growing up, going to school and family holidays. It was a bit disturbing to learn that Milly used to play "house" with a friend in an undertaker's basement using coffins!

Please enjoy this bonus content and we hope to have you back for season two.

S1 Ep7: When Harry met Doris Nov 15, 2020

In this final episode of season one, we learn about Doris' story; how she met Harry and the circumstances around her tragic death which left the family reeling. Milly relives these events vividly and emotionally.

If you like this podcast, please tell your family and friends and write a review. We'd love to know what you think.

S1 Ep6: Doris and Buddy Nov 08, 2020

In episode #6 we explore the far-reaching consequences of losing family members to tragedy. With the unexpected death of Milly’s mother, Doris, Milly is forced to grow up quickly and naturally takes on many extra responsibilities. The death of her cousin, Buddy, is an enduring mystery and the end of the war brings about muted celebrations.

S1 Ep5: Tiptoe through the Tulips Nov 01, 2020

Have you ever wondered what it was really like to live with air raids?

In this episode, Milly gives us some idea of how her family developed an air raid routine and what might have happened if you were unlucky. Singing songs was a way of reassuring young children frightened by the noise and destruction around them.

S1 Ep4: Did you steal that butter? Oct 25, 2020

When ration books were introduced during World War 2, families had to adjust quickly to smaller portions and less choice. Air raid shelters called "Anderson Shelters" were installed in back gardens and would become an important part of homeland defence. Things were getting serious.

In this episode, Milly gives us some idea of what was to be the "new normal" for a country at war.

S1 Ep3: Where's my Dad? Oct 18, 2020

On Sunday 3rd September at 11am, Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain's radio announcement shook the nation.

Eight year-old Milly was more concerned with not being able to go on a planned holiday with her neighbours and didn't fully comprehend the gravity of what was to come. Milly's father was away from home for months and the country was suddenly faced with strict rules to follow. World War 2 brought with it a new list of challenges.

Please enjoy episode #3 of Mondays with Milly.

S1 Ep2: False Rumours Oct 11, 2020

What happened to people who got sick before there was a national health system?

What was it like to go to school in the 1930s?

What were peoples' attitudes to vaccinations against disease?

These questions and more will be answered in episode two of Mondays with Milly.

S1 Ep1: Meet Milly from Moss Side, Manchester Oct 04, 2020

Welcome to Mondays with Milly.

In episode one we're introduced to Milly's family and get an idea of what it was like to grow up in the shadows of the Great Depression. Finding work was a challenge and families supported themselves any way they could. Milly meets the Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain, and her dad mixes cement for Winston Churchill, whose hobby just happens to be brick-laying.

Please enjoy this episode of Mondays with Milly.

Introducing: Mondays with Milly Oct 04, 2020

Mondays with Milly is a podcast about the past as told by someone who was there.

Through a series of interviews, "Milly" (AKA Doreen from Manchester) - talks about her life from the Great Depression era and World War 2 to the present day. Now in her ninetieth year, Milly is a natural story-teller with a razor-sharp memory. Her recount of a life spanning some of history's defining moments provides a unique insight into how people lived, coped, survived and endured times of great adversity.

Recorded during the Covid 19 era, these online interviews have relevance during uncertain times and, perhaps, provide us with a sense of perspective in dealing with our own challenges.

New episodes in the series will be released on Mondays.

Please subscribe, share and review.

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