This is Ep. 1 of the Nature Talks With Humans bonus VE Day season, Under Wartime Skies. When speaking with Allen Chalk and Ron Ives for their podcasts about connecting with nature, conversation turned to the second world war. What Allen and Ron said was like gold dust. I could not sit on their wonderful descriptions of life during the war. I'm delighted to bring you Allen and Ron's VE Day podcasts in this VE Day bonus season. Listen to Ron's VE Day bonus podcast in episodes here.

After this bonus VE Day season, Nature Talks With Humans will be returning to podcast celebrations of cross species communication in nature. Allen's podcast about a shire horse saving his life is here. Ron's podcast about Stonehenge will be released in Season Three. Subscribe here to be sure not to miss Ron's podcast and others.

Under Wartime Skies – A Childhood in Rural England During WWII with ALLEN CHALK

Step back in time to rural England—not through the eyes of soldiers or politicians, but through the memories of a child who lived it. In Under Wartime Skies, a VE Day Bonus from Nature Talks With Humans, we hear from previous podcast interviewee Allen Chalk (Season 1, Episode 2). Under Wartime Skies is a heartfelt podcast that brings to life Allen's memories of childhood in the English countryside during the Second World War. Through vivid and evocative storytelling, Allen shares personal stories of growing up with war on the doorstep: the drone of Nazi planes overhead, the thrill (and terror) of downed aircraft in the hedgerows and the gnawing hunger of rationing—when empty plates and foraged weeds became the norm.

From blackouts to searchlights and the distant thud of bombs, Allen’s memories capture the resilience, stoicism, mischief and bravery of a generation that lived under the shadow of war. When peace finally came with the euphoria of VE Day, bonfires blazing, dancing and the sweet taste of long-forgotten treats were joys unlike any other.

As landscapes slowly healed in the aftermath of the war, Allen witnessed the transition of ploughing from horse to tractor and became a local champion.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nostalgia seeker, or simply curious about life on the home front, this VE Day podcast offers a rare, personal glimpse into a past that shaped a generation. Allen’s intimate, unforgettable journey takes listeners from the fear and hunger of wartime to the hard-won hope of the years that followed.

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Can animals understand humans? Can humans understand animals? Can humans and animals talk to each other, share community and work together? Can birds and humans speak to each other? Is the landscape alive? Can hills, rocks and rivers be spiritual? Share the magic of communing with Nature.

In Nature Talks With Humans we explore the fascinating world of Nature and animal communication. We'll hear real stories from people who have experienced deep connections with Nature, real-life experiences of people who have communicated with animals, birds and landscape. Whether you're interested in mystical nature stories, animal communication, or spiritual connections with wildlife and landscape, these podcasts will inspire you to listen to the messages of the Earth.

There will be tips on how you can tune into the natural world and you will learn how to start your own journey in listening to nature. You will learn how to hear Nature's hidden conversations. Listen to Nature Talks With Humans and discover the realm of what you might feel, hear and know about the natural world.

Listen to these podcasts and see where they take you :)

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