In Episode 15 of the Roaming Free Podcast, hosts Ian Henderson and Steve Fleming are joined by Craig Bolton from GoOutdoors, a knowledgeable and passionate outdoor enthusiast. Craig shares stories from his youth, when joining a local boys’ club — and meeting an inspiring leader named Rod — first sparked his love for adventure and the natural world.

That early encouragement led Craig to study an Outdoor Leaders’ course at college, where he developed his skills and went on to become a Mountain Leader and Forest School instructor. Throughout the episode, Craig intertwines his personal journey with practical advice on choosing the right equipment for different outdoor settings, from mountain expeditions to woodland learning environments.

Warm, insightful, and full of experience, Craig’s story is a celebration of how early inspiration, good mentorship, and the right gear can set you on a lifelong path of exploration and connection with the outdoors.

In this episode of the Roaming Free Podcast, hosts Ian Henderson and Steve Fleming sit down with James Hill, founder of The Forager Within, to explore his personal journey into the world of foraging and the deep connection it fosters with nature. James shares how curiosity and respect for the natural world led him to a life of sustainable wild food gathering — and how anyone can safely start their own foraging adventure.

From understanding the essentials of plant identification to following ethical and seasonal practices, James offers invaluable advice on how to forage responsibly and confidently. We also discuss what’s in season right now, highlighting some of the best wild foods to look out for, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned nature enthusiast.

This inspiring conversation is a reminder that the world around us is full of edible wonders — if we just slow down, look closer, and reconnect with the land.

In this episode of the Roaming Free Podcast, hosts Ian Henderson and Steve Fleming are joined by Nick Wakeman from Visit Isle of Wight, the island’s tourism body, to explore what makes this stunning destination such a special place to visit. From breathtaking coastal paths to hidden inland trails, Nick shares how the Isle of Wight is promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging more people to experience the island on foot.

We dive into the highlights of the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, one of the UK’s premier walking events, and discuss the diverse range of attractions, landscapes, and experiences that make the island perfect for adventurers, families, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re drawn by the dramatic cliffs, peaceful countryside, or the charm of coastal villages, this episode shines a light on how the Isle of Wight is building a greener, more accessible future for tourism.

If you love walking, the outdoors, and discovering unique places closer to home, this episode will inspire you to put the Isle of Wight at the top of your travel list.