Best The French Compass Podcasts (2025)

1
#89 Cat the Vet (Dr. Cat Henstridge) - Regulation, Reality, Trust & the Truth: DOGx Speaker Special 1:27:38

3d ago1:27:38

1:27:38

Welcome back, Bookshelvers! In this weeks episode we welcome back the incredible Cat the Vet (Dr. Cat Henstridge) for her second appearance and another DOGx Speaker Special! Get ready for a deep dive, recorded (humorously!) from under a blanket in her new vet practice – a testament to her dedication to great sound! Cat, a prominent veterinary surge…

1
EP121 Modeling Resilience for Your Family With Guest Pam Lanhart 39:07

5d ago39:07

39:07

In this heartfelt conversation, Heather sits down with Pam Lanhart from Thrive Family Recovery Resources to explore how to keep living with purpose, joy, and connection when life throws everything at you—family challenges, health scares, and the unpredictable ups and downs of a child struggling with substance use. Together, Heather and Pam discuss:…

1
800 British Pub Grub; Travel on $75 a Day; Holland 52:00

6d ago52:00

52:00

Spotted Dick, Eton Mess, Ploughman's Lunch: Two British guides decode the best of England's pub food and explain how far it's come since the days of soggy chips and limp sausages. Then a travel blogger shares tips for exploring the world without breaking the bank. And a pair of Dutch guides illuminate the differences between the fairy-tale province…

1
EP120 The Connection Bank Account: A Quick Win to Strengthen Your Relationship Today 17:02

12d ago17:02

17:02

When your child is struggling with substance use, it can feel like every interaction is high-stakes. You want to help, but even well-meaning conversations can backfire. That’s why today’s episode is all about a simple but powerful tool: The Connection Bank Account. You’ll learn: • What the Connection Bank Account is and how it works • Why connectio…

1
799 Irish Oddities; Viking Sights; Cycling the Silk Road 52:00

13d ago52:00

52:00

Meet an Irishman who scours the Emerald Isle to report on oddities and lesser-known facets of his country's culture. Then learn about the lasting impact of the Viking era in Norway and where to observe it on your next visit. And hear what it's like to bicycle 10,000 miles along the old Silk Road, from Turkey to Tibet. For more information on Travel…

1
#88 Ryan Cartlidge - The Messy, Beautiful Journey of Learners 2:07:58

17d ago2:07:58

2:07:58

Ahoy Bookshelvers! This week, Steve is proper chuffed (that's British for really, really happy) to chat with the one and only Ryan Cartlidge from The Animal Training Academy! Having been an avid listener to the ATA podcast for many years, this is a "pinch me" moment for Steve and if you don't know Ryan, get ready for a big dose of honesty, humility…

1
670a Weekend in Brussels; The Temporary European; My Town 52:00

20d ago52:00

52:00

A Brussels-based tour guide offers his recommendations for making the most of a weekend in the Belgian capital. Then one of Rick's co-authors joins us to explore what it means to become a "temporary local" when traveling, and how it can help you actually relax on your next vacation. And listeners share ideas for enjoying areas they know well, as lo…

1
798 France, North vs. South; Streets of Paris; Loire Valley Chateâu Country 52:00

27d ago52:00

52:00

A trio of Rick's tour guides banter about the nuances of northern and southern France, from climate and demeanor to food and fashion. Then author Susan Cahill describes how wandering the streets of Paris brings to life the stories of the city's artists, writers, and historical figures. And an expert offers recommendations for enjoying the elegant c…

1
Musk's AI chatbot Grok is 'spewing anti-Semitic garbage on X' 5:16

30d ago5:16

5:16

PRESS REVIEW – Wednesday, July 9: Papers report on the blazing wildfires in Syria, Spain and France. Over in Russia, where independent media are discussing the "alleged suicie" of a high-profile politician, who was found dead hours after being fired. Also, Elon Musk's Grok chatbot praises Hitler and shares hateful comments on X after its latest upd…

1
Storied Haiti hotel that inspired Graham Greene's 'The Comedians' burns to the ground 6:56

1M ago6:56

6:56

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, July 8: The British papers offer hope – and a warning – as French President Emmanuel Macron begins the first French state visit to the UK in over 15 years, where he will discuss the thorny issue of migrants crossing the Channel. A storied hotel in Haiti which inspired literature and celebrities burns to the ground. Plus: som…

1
EP119 Living Beyond Our Walls: The Wisdom and Humanity of Incarcerated Voices 31:40

1M ago31:40

31:40

In this heart-opening conversation, Heather is joined by Debby Kerr-Henry who is the sponsor of The Unlimited Gavel Club, a Toastmasters group where approximately 60 incarcerated men learn to write, speak, debate, and reclaim their sense of purpose. In this episode,Debby shares why she believes their stories - especially about substance use and rec…

1
#87 Jenifer Zeligs Ph.D. - The Art of Communication & Compassion in Animal Training - DOGx Speaker Special 1:25:24

1M ago1:25:24

1:25:24

Welcome back, Bookshelvers! We've got an absolute treat for your ears today, a conversation that really gets to the heart of what ethical animal training is all about. Today, we're incredibly honoured to chat (for a second time) with Jenifer Zeligs, a true luminary in the animal training world. Jenifer and Steve dive into some fascinating nuances o…

1
'Stories of courage and compassion': Remembering London's 7/7 bombings 7:32

1M ago7:32

7:32

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, July 7: The British papers are remembering the 7/7 attacks in London. Also, the European Parliament is commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide. Meanwhile, Donald Trump and Elon Musk have another public disagreement. Next, two original sports events take place in France. Finally, a chihuahua saves the day…

1
797 Kayaking Manhattan; The Wild Mississippi; Happy Travels 52:00

1M ago52:00

52:00

Journalist Eliot Stein takes us along on the unique adventure of kayaking the perimeter of Manhattan Island and observes some of the pockets of nature that persist within New York's concrete jungle. Then a midwestern author shares his lifelong passion for the Mississippi River and delves into the recreational, ecological, and spiritual facets of Am…

1
'You'll never walk alone': Football world mourns Diogo Jota 6:58

1M ago6:58

6:58

PRESS REVIEW – Friday, July 4: We look at reactions to US President Donald Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill", which he will sign today. Also: Russia recognises the Taliban as Afghanistan's government, becoming the first country to do so. Tributes in the football world pour in for Diogo Jota, a star of Liverpool FC who has died in a car crash alongside …

1
France arrests teen for plotting attacks on women in landmark 'incel' case 6:16

1M ago6:16

6:16

PRESS REVIEW – Thursday, July 3: We look at reactions to the verdict in Sean "Diddy" Combs's trial and what it means for the #MeToo movement. Also: for the first time, France arrests a man on terrorism charges relating to the incel movement. Plus: the Dalai Lama defies pressure from China and says he will appoint a successor the traditional way as …

1
Is 'AC guilt' justified? French papers divided over use of air conditioning amid heatwave 6:03

1M ago6:03

6:03

PRESS REVIEW – Wednesday, July 2: Russia is ramping up AI disinformation abroad, but also at home, where it's using bots to justify high utility rate hikes. In the US, President Donald Trump is reigniting fears of a global trade war amid tensions with Japan. Also in Japan, "proxy quitter" companies help workers avoid an awkward conversation with th…

1
Sinaloa cartel's new alliance with rival could transform global drug trade 7:26

1M ago7:26

7:26

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, July 1: The French left-wing papers rejoice after a controversial public broadcasting bill is rejected by parliament. The New York Times looks at how the Sinaloa cartel is making new alliances with enemies, which could reshape the global drug trade. Also: a photo report documents horrific sexual violence inflicted on Tigray …

1
Hundreds of neighbours give one last Christmas to little girl with terminal cancer 8:18

1M ago8:18

8:18

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, June 30: The heatwave across Europe is making international headlines, with Spain and Portugal recording record temperatures. Next, settler violence is escalating amid what Haaretz calls a "West Bank pogrom". Also, The Washington Post tells the bittersweet story of a seven-year-old girl's last midsummer Christmas. Finally, we…

1
796 Oh Canada! 52:00

1M ago52:00

52:00

Two prominent Canadian authors share their perspective on today's strained political relationship between the US and its northern neighbor. They reflect on their country's geography, diversity, strength, and identity, and consider the history and attitudes that make Canada distinct from the US. And of course, they talk a bit of hockey. For more inf…

1
US signals 'powerful shift' in vaccine policy as RFK Jr moves to change guidance 7:02

1M ago7:02

7:02

PRESS REVIEW – Friday, June 27: Donald Trump's health secretary and vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr moves to rescind recommendations for the flu vaccine over a longstanding anti-vaxxer belief that it causes autism. The US will also pull funding for a global alliance that provides free jabs to impoverished populations. Meanwhile: Libération loo…

1
EP118 Why You Can’t Say No To Your Child – Even When You Want To 27:17

1M ago27:17

27:17

If you’ve ever decided not to give your child money and still felt like your heart was being ripped out so you said yes anyway… this episode is for you. In this episode, I’m unpacking what really happens when we stop giving from a place of survival, and why that decision can feel so excruciating, even when we know it’s right. Learn: • Why saying no…

1
What lessons can be learned from Mamdani's win in NYC Democratic mayoral primary? 7:23

1M ago7:23

7:23

PRESS REVIEW - Thursday, June 26: There are lots of scathing reactions in the press after the NATO summit in The Hague which saw members commit to spending 5 percent of GDP on defence. As one paper notes: Donald Trump whistles, Europe dances. Also: young, far-left upstart Zohran Mamdani wins the NYC Democratic primary and could be the youngest New …

1
An 'abomination' and a 'death trap': Papers denounce Israel's food aid system in Gaza 5:27

1M ago5:27

5:27

PRESS REVIEW – Wednesday, June 25: International papers criticise Israel's "genocidal" food distribution system in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Russia is planning to train Chinese troops, according to an exclusive report. Next, Bulgarian papers worry about a black leopard that's roaming free. Finally, inflatable crocodiles threaten the wedding of bil…

1
Global media reports Israel-Iran ceasefire with caution, speculation 6:04

1M ago6:04

6:04

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, June 24: We bring you all the latest reactions after US President Donald Trump announces a ceasefire between Iran and Israel after 12 days of war. We also look at what the Iranian threat represents for Trump personally and how all these developments play into the crucial NATO summit that kicks off this Tuesday. A lot of unce…

1
#86 Danny Nelis-Rouse - Tug-E-Nuff: Building Better Bonds & Businesses With Play 1:29:51

1M ago1:29:51

1:29:51

Alright, fellow dog fanatics, prepare for an episode of Barks from the Bookshelf that's got more bounces than a super-excited Border Collie! Steve and Corrin are back from their beach break (and likely still shaking sand out of their ears) to dive into a seriously fun chat with the brilliant Danny Nelis-Rouse from Tug-E-Nuff! Ever wondered how a pa…

1
A 'reckless' act or a 'courageous' decision? Papers divided over US strikes on Iran 6:53

2M ago6:53

6:53

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, June 23: First, we look at global front pages reacting to US President Donald Trump's intervention in Iran. Next, papers are divided over the US bombing of Iran – it's an "illegal" act for some, but an opportunity for peace for others. Meanwhile, the Iranian press condemn Trump's move, saying the US "will pay". Finally, we lo…

1
795 Liverpool; Finding Ancient Roman Art; Home Base Hiking in Europe 52:00

2M ago52:00

52:00

Find out what makes Liverpool worth at least a day's visit even for those with no interest in Fab Four lore, then hear from renowned classicist Mary Beard about some of the best places outside Italy to see remnants of the ancient Roman empire. And learn why one expert recommends finding a good home base to unlace your boots on a multi-day European …

1
EP117 Taking Your Life Back Without Letting Go of Your Child 24:15

2M ago24:15

24:15

If you’ve ever felt stuck between loving your child and losing yourself, this episode will help you see that taking your life back doesn’t mean letting go. It means leading the way with compassion, clarity, and strength. Heather shares how years of fear, guilt, and hopelessness kept her stuck — and the exact moment she found a path forward. She int…

1
Point of no return: Global carbon budget to be exhausted by 2028 6:46

2M ago6:46

6:46

PRESS REVIEW – Thursday, June 19: We take a look at reactions from the press as US President Donald Trump continues to dither on whether the US will intervene in the conflict between Israel and Iran. Also, a study warns that the global carbon budget could be exhausted within three years, after which point climate change will be irreversible. Finall…

1
'Simply apocalyptic' and 'too risky': Papers react to Gaza aid distribution deaths 7:03

2M ago7:03

7:03

PRESS REVIEW – Wednesday, June 18: Papers describe scenes of "humiliation and death" in Gaza as Palestinians seek aid distribution. We also look at Kosovo, where the trial over the massacre in Pristina 26 years ago has finally started. Plus, Brazil's new "bill of devastation" supported by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva stands in stark contrast…

1
Iran: Is Trump's 'appetite for war' influenced by his 'America First' supporters? 6:23

2M ago6:23

6:23

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, June 17: We start with a look at the global headlines discussing the Israel-Iran war. Next, we turn to analysis pieces discussing Trump's motives for (non)intervention in Iran. Meanwhile, the Trump family has a new venture: a golden smartphone "built in the US". Finally, a 135-year-old tortoise reaches a new personal milesto…

1
Auckland 'forklift drivers' lose 10-0 to Bayern in FIFA 'football farce' 6:32

2M ago6:32

6:32

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, June 16: The conflict between Iran and Israel features on many front pages and is widely debated in the inside pages. Also, the controversial FIFA Club World Cup continues to make headlines, but perhaps not for the right reasons. Next, MI6 appoints a female head for the first time in 116 years. Finally, German soldiers get a …

1
447b Hungarian Hot Springs; Peru's Boiling River; Padova & the Veneto 52:00

2M ago52:00

52:00

Hear how people of all ages enjoy a day at the baths in Budapest, where doctors commonly prescribe a relaxing day at the spa. Then learn about a sacred geothermal river located deep in Amazonian Peru: It's huge, deadly hot, and might contain clues to the origins of life on Earth. And get advice for enjoying the splendor of Padua, located just half …

1
World's papers react to unprecedented Israeli strikes on Iran 5:27

2M ago5:27

5:27

PRESS REVIEW – Thursday, June 13: Iranian state media say Tehran will punish the "Zionist regime" after massive Israeli strikes on nuclear sites and military commanders in Iran. Meanwhile, the Israeli press say Tel Aviv struck because a "point of no return" was reached over Iran's nuclear programme. We also look at reactions from the international …

1
'Genius' duo behind French multimillion-euro furniture scam found guilty 6:29

2M ago6:29

6:29

PRESS REVIEW – Thursday, June 12: In Syria, women are now obliged to wear fully-covering burkinis to the beach. Also, there's "simmering discontent" about Syria's Committee for Civil Peace. A new post-Brexit deal is agreed between the UK and Spain over Gibraltar. In France, a duo that faked 18th-century furniture is found guilty of forgery. Finally…

1
Accused of 'terrorism' at 15 years old: The tragic story of Rhianan Rudd 6:36

2M ago6:36

6:36

PRESS REVIEW – Wednesday, June 11: Austrian papers mourn the victims of the nation's worst post-war mass shooting. France is also in shock following the death of a teaching assistant who was stabbed by a 14-year-old pupil. Meanwhile, the Financial Times has a long read on the story of the youngest person charged with terrorism in the UK. Next, the …

1
(How) Do the LA protests compare to the 1992 riots? 6:33

2M ago6:33

6:33

PRESS REVIEW – Tuesday, June 10: We look at reactions after protests in Los Angeles, where Donald Trump has sent in the National Guard. A video goes viral of an Australian reporter being shot with a rubber bullet in the middle of a live broadcast. Also, what comparisons can be made to the 1992 LA riots? Plus, here in France, the hit Netflix series …

1
#85: Jamie & Gemma Pound from UK Sniffer Dogs: Great Laughs, Good Sniffs & Game-Changing Training 1:35:51

2M ago1:35:51

1:35:51

Alrighty then Bookshelvers, settle in with your favourite beverage (and maybe a tasty morsel, or two, for your furry co-listener) because this episode is a HOOT! We’re still wiping away tears of laughter reminiscing with our amazing guests, the legendary Jamie and Gemma Pound from UK Sniffer Dogs. We spend a bit of time reminiscing on the hilarious…

1
Have the 'deportation wars' begun? Papers react to LA protests 7:03

2M ago7:03

7:03

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, June 9: Protests in Los Angeles against US President Donald Trump's immigration policies continue to make the front pages. Also, Russian mercenary group Wagner announces it will be leaving Mali after "completing" its mission. Next, the United Nations Ocean Conference opens in Nice in a bid to address the alarming state of our…

1
794 The New Tourist; Training School for Elephants 52:00

2M ago52:00

52:00

Journalist Paige McClanahan examines recent changes in the travel industry and explains how a more conscientious approach to tourism can make it a force for good. And travel writer Sophy Roberts recounts a curious episode in colonial history when the king of Belgium ordered a group of elephants to be sent from India to Congo — and discusses what he…

1
Will David Beckham finally become a 'Sir' in king's birthday honours list? 7:11

2M ago7:11

7:11

PRESS REVIEW – Friday, June 6: The press react to Donald Trump and Elon Musk's spectacular, messy and public fallout. This as Trump tells Politico that all is well between the two men. Also: The Economist looks at the decline of boys among prospective parents and why having girls is now sought-after in IVF and adoptions. The sports pages react to a…

1
793 Aegean Turkey; Florence & Tuscany; Denmark Beyond Copenhagen 52:00

2M ago52:00

52:00

Expert tour guides share advice for exploring the ancient ruins and seaside villages along Turkey's Aegean coast, the Renaissance wonders of Florence, the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside, and charming Danish towns and islands easily reached on day trips from Copenhagen. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode description…

1
AbraCasaBra legt u alles uit over het verkrijgen van een hypotheek in Spanje 25:03

2M ago25:03

25:03

Ben je van plan om een huis te kopen in het prachtige zuiden van Spanje, maar wil je een gedeeltelijke financiering van een bank? Dan moet je naar deze podcast luisteren...! Het is tegenwoordig veel moeilijker geworden om een hypotheek te krijgen. In onze podcast laten we je zien hoe je je kansen op een hypotheek drastisch kunt vergroten. Luister d…

1
#84: Niki French - Stop! Walking Your Dog 1:58:35

2M ago1:58:35

1:58:35

We hope this pod finds you well Bookshelvers This week Steve sails the Barks From Podship solo across the canine geek ocean! Luckily for him he has a wonderful book to get stuck in to! This week we are thrilled to be joined by the awesome Niki French to talk (amongst other stuff) all about her book 'Stop Walking Your Dog'. There is so much to unpac…

1
792 Remember Us; The Greater Journey 52:00

3M ago52:00

52:00

We hear how the Dutch continue to remember and honor the servicemen who helped liberate their towns in 1945. And we revisit a conversation with the late historian David McCullough about the influential "Americans in Paris" of the 19th century, who returned home with skills that helped transform life in the US. For more information on Travel with Ri…

1
EP116 Guilt vs. Truth: One Keeps You Stuck, the Other Sets You Free 36:13

3M ago36:13

36:13

Guilt is one of the most common emotions parents face when their child is struggling with addiction, but is it always telling the truth? In this episode, I’m sharing some personal reflections and hard-won realizations about guilt: how it became my default emotion, how it blocked me from feeling what was actually true, and what happened when I final…

1
683a English Country Gardens; On Becoming a Gardener; In Praise of Wasting Time 52:00

3M ago52:00

52:00

English tour guides share their enthusiasm for enjoying the riot of color and inspiration you'll find in England's best country gardens. Then author Catie Marron explains how she designed and planted a garden as a way to feel a sense of belonging in her new home. And physicist Alan Lightman explains why it's healthy to give yourself a little unstru…

1
#83: Daniel Shaw - Brains, Behaviour & the ABK Conference 1:25:06

3M ago1:25:06

1:25:06

Alrighty then Bookshelvers!? It's time to get comfy, pop the kettle on, slip those nice socks you like on and open your ears, minds and hearts! This episode was a real treat because we (finally) got to chat with the brilliant Daniel Shaw from Animal Behaviour Kent, and ooooh boy, did we cover some fascinating ground! We talk about Daniels super int…

1
791 Scottish Castles; Mars on Earth; Checking In 52:00

3M ago52:00

52:00

Scottish tour guides tell us about the most famous castles in a country that's brimming with the imposing structures. Then a Santiago-based American travel writer embarks on a 1,200-mile odyssey through one of the driest places on earth — Chile's Atacama Desert — as he searches for a deeper understanding of his adopted homeland. And listeners call …

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