Routes
Season 3 of Routes is coming this summer - join Jenni Falconer and some well-known faces and explore what travel means to them. Seasons 1 and 2 are available to listen to now with guests including Mel B, Sam Heughan, James Martin, Self Esteem, Stephen Mangan, Craig David, Suzi Ruffell, Tom Grennan and many more! From wild adventures to chill getaways, join Jenni for laid-back, meaningful and humorous conversations. We’ll save you a seat!
Episodes
Andi Oliver: Food, Heritage and Finding Herself
From childhood summers in Cyprus to a life-changing three-month stay in Antigua at sixteen, chef and broadcaster Andi Oliver has spent her life following food, family and heritage across the globe. In this episode of Routes from LNER, Andi joins Jenni on the train to Edinburgh to talk about growing up between cultures, the touring years that shaped her twenties, and why travel has always been tied
The Quiet Coach: Overpacking, Summer Gigs and Mistaken Identity with Chesney Hawkes
From packing three suitcases at once for a cruise, a band tour and a Portugal getaway, to letting his wife always face forward on trains, Chesney Hawkes joins Jenni Falconer on The Quiet Coach to talk travel, timing and the occasional case of mistaken identity. He explains why he always heads for the quiet coach, and why punctuality matters so much to him.Chesney also shares the story of his mum's
Chesney Hawkes: The One and Only, Touring and Raising Kids
From childhood summers on the beaches of the Algarve to chasing the Northern Lights on songwriting trips to Iceland, Chesney Hawkes has spent a lifetime shaped by movement, music and the road. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the singer joins Jenni on the train to Dundee to talk about growing up in a rock 'n' roll household, the whirlwind of pop stardom, and why travel has always fed his creat
Season 3 of Routes from LNER is coming
We’re back! Season 3 of Routes with LNER is arriving soon and we’ve saved you a seat.Join Jenni Falconer for another season of incredible guests, who have the travel stories to prove that the journey really is everything.Whether it’s a holiday that went hilariously wrong, a destination that completely changed how they see the world, or a journey they’ll never forget for all the right (and wrong) r
The Quiet Coach: Hot Air Balloons, Travel Mishaps and New Beginnings with Matty Lee
From sunrise hot air balloons over Marrakesh to leaving his Nintendo behind on his very first family holiday, Olympic gold medallist Matty Lee joins Jenni Falconer on The Quiet Coach to share stories from a life shaped by travel, competition and big moments.In this episode of Routes from LNER, Matty reflects on how travel has changed since retiring from diving, from fast-paced trips across Thailan
Matty Lee: Olympic Gold, World Travels and Life After Diving
Olympic gold medallist diver Matty Lee joins Jenny Falconer on this episode of Routes from LNER, reflecting on a life that’s taken him from local swimming pools in Leeds to the very top of the Olympic podium.Matty shares the journey from discovering diving as a kid, following in his brother’s footsteps, to competing on the world stage alongside athletes he once idolised. He opens up about the real
The Quiet Coach: Private Islands, Shark Sightings, and Sushi on Trains with Jack Savoretti
From spending younger years on a remote island in the Bahamas to sneaking sushi onto trains, Jack Savoretti joins Jenni Falconer on The Quiet Coach to share a vivid, funny and unexpectedly reflective look at life on the move. In this episode of Routes from LNER, Jack opens up about his earliest travel memories, including months spent living off-grid with no electricity, crossing moonlit waters by
Jack Savoretti: Italian Roots, Tour Tales and the Royal Albert Hall
From interrailing across Europe with a gang of friends as a teen, to celebrating twenty years in music at the Royal Albert Hall, Jack Savoretti’s life has been shaped by movement, culture and connection. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the singer-songwriter joins Jenni to talk about the journeys that influenced him, his love of train travel, and why Newcastle will always hold a special place
The Quiet Coach: Japan Stories, Lost Cuddly Toys and Language Barriers with James Haskell
Host Jenni Falconer welcomes former England rugby international turned DJ James Haskell aboard the Quiet Coach in this episode of Routes from LNER. From the unwritten rules of the quiet carriage to the realities of life spent travelling the world for rugby, James shares stories from the road and reflects on the experiences that have shaped him beyond the pitch.The conversation explores James’s tim
James Haskell: Pro Rugby, Ibiza DJ Sets & Dad Life
What happens when a 6ft4 former England rugby star swaps the pitch for the DJ booth and somehow ends up sharing a bath with Madonna? On this episode of Routes from LNER, James Haskell joins Jenni Falconer for a brilliantly unpredictable journey to Edinburgh, packed with sharp humour and seriously good stories.James looks back at life playing international rugby, his years living in France near the
The Quiet Coach: Taking Risks, Finding Television, and Never Growing Up with Leigh Francis
From secretly filming sketches in the art department to turning up at TV meetings in full character, this week’s Quiet Coach guest has never taken the conventional route. In this episode of Routes from LNER, Jenni Falconer sits down with comedian, actor, artist and podcaster Leigh Francis for a funny, chaotic and surprisingly honest chat about creativity, confidence and carving out a career by bac
Leigh Francis: Leeds Beginnings, Comedy Chaos & Keith Lemon
From Leeds beginnings and Bridlington beach trips to Halloween weddings and first overseas adventures, Leigh Francis’s life off-screen is as colourful as the characters he’s created. In this episode of Routes, Leigh joins Jenni to talk about growing up in Yorkshire, the chaotic comedy worlds of Celebrity Juice and Bo’ Selecta, and how his childhood shaped his sense of humour. He reflects on early
The Quiet Coach: Hollywood Sightings, Jet Lag, and Pringles with Siân Welby
Welcome back to The Quiet Coach, where Siân Welby shares what happens when she’s on the move. From spotting familiar faces on Hollywood boulevards to navigating jet-lagged mornings, Sian talks about how she keeps travel manageable, with Pringles and a stash of Haribo at the ready, a few podcasts queued up for long train journeys, and by finding the perfect seat.She opens up about her favourite tra
Siân Welby: Morning Radio, Train Trips and Baby Bags
Siân Welby’s route into broadcasting has been shaped by curiosity, instinct and a willingness to say yes before she had everything figured out. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the Capital Breakfast presenter joins Jenni to talk about the journeys, both literal and personal, that have defined her life and career so far.She reflects on growing up with classic British seaside holidays, discoveri
The Quiet Coach: Learning Lines, Karaoke Disasters and Hidden Suitcases with Sam Heughan
From learning lines in the Quiet Coach to racing through stations at the last minute, Sam Heughan reveals what travel really looks like when you’re juggling acting, adventure, and a suitcase stashed in every corner of the world. In this episode of The Quiet Coach, Sam joins Jenni to talk about how he travels, how he works on the move, and why trains are one of his favourite places to think, reflec
Sam Heughan: Outlander, Everest & the Perfect Cocktail
From Highland adventures and Himalayan expeditions to motorbike road trips and mezcal-fuelled misadventures, Sam Heughan’s life off screen is every bit as epic as his most famous role. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the Outlander star joins Jenni to talk about the places that shaped him, the journeys that pushed him out of his comfort zone, and why the south of Scotland deserves just as much
The Quiet Coach: Chef Confessions, Countryside Love, and Why James Martin Bins His Mugs
Welcome back to the Quiet Coach, where chef and TV presenter James Martin reveals his travel essentials and the moments that have shaped him as a traveler. From Red Bull and Mars bar breakfasts to throwing mugs in the bin, this is where we get into the wonderfully peculiar habits that come from decades in professional kitchens. In this episode of Routes from LNER, Jenni Falconer sits down with Jam
James Martin: Flat Caps, Failed Exams and the Perfect Bacon Sandwich
From washing pots at eight years old in a Yorkshire castle to becoming one of Britain's most beloved TV chefs, James Martin's journey has been anything but conventional. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the flat cap wearing chef joins Jenni to share stories of break dancing for fish and chips in York, being dropped off at French vineyards as a kid, and why failing cookery at school was the bes
The Quiet Coach: Chocolate, Telepathy Tapes and Ruining Romantic Moments with Erin Richards
Welcome back to the Quiet Coach, where we dive into Erin Richards' travel essentials and the moments that have shaped her as a traveler. From chocolate obsessions to meditation retreats, this is where we get into the details.Erin's always got dark chocolate in her bag, usually around 90% cocoa, and she's got her top three brands ranked like a proper connoisseur. She's more of a podcast person than
Erin Richards: Whale Sharks, Clay Cleanses and Coming Home
From childhood camping trips in France to missing flights in spectacular fashion, Erin Richards has always been someone who thrives on movement and discovery. The Gotham star joins Jenni to chat about her journey from Penarth to Hollywood and back again, with plenty of wild stories along the way.Growing up, Erin was the kind of kid who'd pile into the back of her mum's Chrysler seven seater with h
Routes Home for Christmas
In this very special Christmas edition of Routes, Jenni invites you to a festive celebration filled with laughter, travel stories, and holiday cheer. Whether you're journeying near or far, this episode brings you Christmas traditions and stories from some of Jenni's past and future guests.Penny Lancaster shares her love for Christmas parties, tree decorating battles with Rod, and why having a chef
The Quiet Coach: Ice Plunges, Cue Cards, and Comedy with Suzi Ruffell
What happens when a self-confessed show off who was made to feel stupid at school becomes a bestselling author and one of the UK's most loved comedians? In this Quiet Coach episode, Suzi Ruffell opens up about her journey from struggling with severe dyslexia to writing a book that surprised even herself. She reveals how she actually writes her standup, working from single word cue cards and improv
Suzi Ruffell: Tea, Trains and Edinburgh Festival Tales
From childhood holidays in caravans with cousins to selling out Edinburgh Festival shows and traveling the country on tour, Suzi Ruffell's life has been shaped by journeys both literal and creative. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the award winning comedian and Sunday Times bestselling author chats with Jenni about her love of train travel, how she became a standup storyteller, and why Edinbu
The Quiet Coach: Why the Journey Beats the Destination with Stephen Mangan
In this Quiet Coach episode of Routes from LNER, Jenni Falconer sits down with actor, comedian and presenter Stephen Mangan to talk about his travel obsessions, from panic buying enough fruit to open a market stall to running 40 miles a week just to stay on top of his snack habit. A devoted Quiet Coach fan who can't understand why anyone would want to hear someone else's phone conversation, Stephe
Stephen Mangan: Snakes, Ant Hills and Interrailing Chaos
This week on Routes from LNER, Jenni Falconer is joined by the brilliant Stephen Mangan, an actor, author and all round storyteller with a lifetime of travel mishaps and memories. From childhood road trips to County Mayo with fifty two cousins waiting at the other end, to ferry crossings, car sickness and cassettes on loop, Stephen paints a vivid picture of holidays that felt like travelling
The Quiet Coach: Finding Stillness on the Move with Ella Eyre
In this Quiet Coach episode of Routes from LNER, Jenni Falconer sits down for a calm catch-up with singer-songwriter Ella Eyre to talk about her favourite travel rituals, go-to comfort snacks, and the little luxuries that make touring life bearable. From her love of skincare routines and Yorkshire Tea-dipped jammy dodgers to her trusty travel kettle for those American hotels that never have one, E
Ella Eyre: Wild Adventures, Finding Her Voice, and Poached Eggs on Tour
From wild childhood holidays with “The Wild Bunch” to performing at the BRIT Awards and waking up in a new country every day, Ella Eyre’s life has always been in motion. In this episode of Routes from LNER, the Brit Award-winning artist chats with Jenni about her early adventures, her love of travel, and the lessons learned along the way.Ella reflects on going from Brit School musical theatre
The Quiet Coach: Penny Lancaster on Her Perfect Journey
In this episode of The Quiet Coach on Routes from LNER, Jenni sits down with presenter, photographer and all-round adventurer Penny Lancaster for a relaxed chat about all things travel, rest and those little rituals that make journeys special. From her love of peace and quiet on board (no phone calls please!) to how she truly unwinds when she’s away from home, Penny shares what trav
Penny Lancaster: Glamour, Grit and the Great Escape
Model, talk show host, photographer, and now Special Police Constable, Penny Lancaster has lived a life full of chapters, adventures and meaningful journeys. In this first episode of Season 2 of Routes with Jenni Falconer, Penny joins Jenni to share the trips and places that have shaped her most.From humble but just as special childhood holidays to Bournemouth and Southend, to the glamour of
The Quiet Coach: Victor Kunda's Travel State of Mind and Why Water Wins
Clara welcomes back TikTok sensation and fashion influencer Victor Kunda for a soulful chat filled with sun, sea and sweet treats. From jumping into the ocean for the first time in Croatia to dancing at sunset on a yacht to Tame Impala, Victor shares how travel transforms him and why water, in all its moods, keeps him grounded. We also hear about his secret stash of Nigerian sweets, his aversion t
🤳🏿 Victor Kunda: Performing, Posting, and Properly Living
For our final main episode of Season 1, Clara travels through the vibrant life of Victor Kunda, the TikTok sensation and fashion world favourite whose storytelling flair and comic timing have won hearts across the internet. From his humble beginnings in Eltham to rubbing shoulders (literally) with Rihanna and lighting up the red carpet, Victor shares how performing has always been his escape and e
The Quiet Coach: Books, Beats and Backstage Dogs with Steven Frayne (Dynamo)
This week Clara gets comfy with magician Steven Frayne, better known as Dynamo, for a chat that’s part travel diary, part life philosophy, and all heart. They dive into his love of learning, fuelled by a childhood without a telly and a steady diet of library books and VHS tapes. Dynamo opens up about how reading still grounds him, and how his imagination was sparked by watching films he believed w
🪄 Steven Frayne, aka Dynamo: Sofa Beds, Street Tricks and Stardom
This week we're joined by someone who has quite literally made a career out of making the impossible possible — magician, storyteller, and performer Steven Frayne, aka Dynamo.You probably know him from walking on water, levitating above London, or performing close-up magic for everyone from Prince Charles to Snoop Dogg. But in this episode, Steven opens up in a very different way. He sha
The Quiet Coach: Cucumber Snacks & No-Plan Plans with Celeste
In this week's Quiet Coach, Clara chats to the effortlessly cool Celeste. She reveals her ultimate way to switch off—ditching her phone completely while on holiday—and shares how trips to Morocco, Barbados, and especially Jamaica have shaped her perspective. Visiting her grandmother’s village in Jamaica was a life-changing moment, connecting her to her roots and the island’s rebellious spirit.As a
🏆 Celeste: Singing, Storytelling, and Stepping Into the Spotlight
This week Clara is joined by award-winning singer, songwriter, and creative powerhouse Celeste to chat about life, music, and the magic of travel. From her early days finding confidence in her voice to playing iconic venues and scoring Oscar nominations, Celeste takes us on a journey through her career highs, personal revelations, and the places that have shaped her.Celeste reflects on growing up
The Quiet Coach: Shoes off, socks off, music on with Lennie James
In this episode we're joined by the brilliant Lennie James—actor, writer, and all-around legend, to talk about his love for travel, the must-have items in his suitcase, and the music that helps him unwind.Lennie kicks off with his number one travel rule: shoes off, socks off, music on. He shares why headphones are strictly for public spaces and why Jacob Banks is currently the sound
🧟♂️ Lennie James: Acting, Adventure & Finding Home
This week Clara is joined by BAFTA-winning actor and all-around legend Lennie James. You’ve seen him as Morgan Jones in The Walking Dead, DCI Tony Gates in Line of Duty, and even heard his voice in Mufasa: The Lion King. Now, he’s here to take us on a journey through his life, career, and the places that shaped him.From his Nottingham roots to growing up in London, Lennie refle
The Quiet Coach: Travelling Smart but always low key with Maisie Adam
Join us in The Quiet Coach with comedian Maisie Adam as she chats with Clara Amfo about travel, music, and the art of finding peace on the move. Maisie shares her love for the quiet coach, her biggest travel pet peeves, and the small joys that make train journeys special.She talks about the playlists that set the mood for her trips, from energising pre-show tracks to calming tunes for the journey
🤣 Maisie Adam: Comedy, Football & Life on the Road
In this episode of Routes from LNER, Clara Amfo sits down with award-winning comedian and football fan Maisie Adam for a hilarious chat about life on tour, childhood holidays, and navigating the comedy world.Maisie talks about growing up in Harrogate, visiting Leeds for gigs and nights out, and her family’s annual Blackpool trips, where spotting Blackpool To
The Quiet Coach: Hot Yoga, HP Sauce & High-Flying Adventures with Mel B
This week, we’re diving into the travel habits of the one and only Mel B! From intense hot yoga sessions to meditation and reiki healing, find out how she unwinds on the road.Mel also shares her expert packing tips—honed from years of non-stop travel with the Spice Girls—and reveals her surprisingly organised approach to life on the go. Get the inside scoop on her airport adventures, people-watchi
🐆 Mel B (aka Scary Spice): From Icon to Advocate, a Journey of Transformation
In this week's episode Clara gets to sit down with one of her all-time favs, the legendary Melanie Brown—Mel B (aka Scary Spice). This is an unforgettable conversation, including what she really thinks of being called “Scary,” the story behind her iconic leopard print, and her reflections on the legacy of “girl power.”Mel shares her journey from growing up in Leeds to being at the forefront of the
The Quiet Coach: Unpacking Self Esteem
On this week's 'The Quiet Coach' Clara is back with musician Rebecca Taylor, also known as Self Esteem, to delve into the intricacies of her travel habits, inspirations, and personal reflections. From comfort snacks and music to childhood memories and self-discovery, Rebecca offers an intimate look into her life on the road. Discover her go-to travel hacks, the music that moves her, and the signif
🙌 Self Esteem (aka Rebecca Taylor): Balancing Art, Ambition, and Authenticity
In this episode of Routes from LNER Clara sits down with the endlessly talented Rebecca Taylor—better known as Self Esteem. From her early days in the Sheffield music scene to headlining festivals, Rebecca spills all about her journey through the music industry, the highs and lows of fame, and her ever-evolving creative process.Rebecca gets real about her goals for 2025, her acting ambit
The Quiet Coach: Craig David Stays Grounded with R&B Classics and Mindfulness
Step aboard the Quiet Coach for an intimate and mellow journey through the mind of the legendary Craig David! In this episode, Clara explores Craig’s secrets to finding calm amidst the chaos. From meditation hacks to his favourite quiet travel rituals, Craig shares how he stays centred—even while his music career takes him around the globe. Listen in as he reveals his love for incense, light
🎧 Craig David: Navigating Fame, Family, and 25 Years of Music
In this episode, Clara’s travel companion is the legendary and multi-talented Craig David. The Singer, DJ, Songwriter & Producer has had an incredible career and journey from Southampton's Holyrood Estate to becoming an early pioneer of the UK garage scene and crossing the pond to his infamous Miami penthouse.Craig shares some surreal highlights throughout his career from hearing his album pla
The Quiet Coach: How Arielle Free Travels Light and Stays Chill with Pickles, Playlists, and Packing Hacks
On this Quiet Coach episode, Clara chats with DJ and producer Arielle Free about her travel essentials, from chill-out playlists to unexpected snacks like pickles in a bag. Arielle shares her go-to packing tips, skincare hacks for long trips, and the music and books that keep her grounded while on the move.Whether you’re after practical travel advice or just a good laugh, this episode offers a rel
🎄 Christmas Routes with Baba, Arielle, Candice and Tom
In this very special Christmas edition of Routes, Clara Amfo invites you to a festive celebration filled with laughter, travel stories, and holiday cheer. Whether you're journeying near or far this episode brings you Christmas traditions and stories from some of Clara's past guests.Babatunde Aléshé shares stories of Christmas home and away. Beach walks in Dubai to fireworks in his back garden and
🪩 Arielle Free: From Dance Floors to Deep Fried Mars Bars
In this episode of Routes, Clara’s travel companion is international DJ, producer, and broadcaster Arielle Free for a journey filled with music, memories, and adventure.Deeply passionate of her Scottish roots Arielle is no stranger to train travel. Having moved from Glasgow to London at 18 she has spent many hours making the trip between the two cities, and yet she still loves a train! UK landscap
The Quiet Coach: Babatunde Aléshé's stories of connection, vinyl, and life-changing journeys
Clara Amfo kicks back with comedian Baba on The Quiet Coach to chat about his love for vinyl, must-have travel snacks, and a life-changing trip to Zambia. From building his “dad cave” to why Fela Kuti is the ultimate travel soundtrack, Baba shares his hacks and hilarious takes on travel life.It’s a relaxed, fun ride through music, food, and those moments that make exploring the world unf
😂 Babatunde Aléshé: Hilarious Travel Tales from Brixton to the Jungle
In this episode of Routes Clara is joined by one of the UK’s biggest comedy stars, Babatunde Aleshe, for a journey packed with laughs, stories, and a few unexpected travel guests.Sparse to splendour - Bababunte has experienced it all - childhood holidays whilst rich in memories were a far cry from the luxury he has since enjoyed. From summer holidays spent at his aunts in Brixton to camping
The Quiet Coach: Candice Brathwaite talks meditation and travel essentials
Hop on this week's Quiet Coach as Clara chats with bestselling author Candice Brathwaite about travel, music, and life lessons. From meditation on trains to emotional trips to Jamaica and Italy, Candice opens up about how places and moments have shaped her.Packed with tips, laughs, and a bit of nostalgia, this episode dives the highs and lows of travelling. Perfect for anyone who loves a good stor
📚 Candice Brathwaite: Writing, Wanderlust, and Life Lessons Through Travel
On this episode of Routes, Clara’s travel companion is her good friend, Candice Brathwaite.Candice is a two-time Sunday Times best-selling author, podcaster, and champion of motherhood, diversity and inclusivity. You’ll be treated to an intimate conversation between two friends who laugh, share stories, and get deep.Candice credits travel as a major influence on her writing, claiming she wouldn’t
The Quiet Coach: Tom Grennan gets chill and shares his Snacks, Tracks and Hacks
On our first The Quiet Coach, Clara chats with singer Tom Grennan about his travel must-haves, personal routines, and the places that inspire him. From his newfound love for reading to running with no headphones, Tom shares what keeps him grounded and how he unwinds on the road. He talks about his deep connection to Ireland, his love-hate relationship with Bedford, and how Coventry’s strong commun
🎙️Tom Grennan: Adventures aged 9, not making it as a footballer and loving to explore new places.
Welcome to the first-ever episode of Routes with Clara Amfo. Clara's travel buddy for this first journey is none other than Tom Grennan, the chart-topping Lionheart singer known worldwide for his infectious music. In this episode, Tom takes listeners on a journey through life before and after his rise to fame.Expect the same raw, honesty and openness in conversation as you hear in his songs, as Cl
Welcome to...Routes 🗺️
Welcome to ROUTES WITH JENNI FALCONER — the podcast that makes travel feel closer than ever. We’re setting off for adventure with some well-known faces and exploring what travel means to them. This is the podcast that’ll make you want to step out your front door and into a world of possibilities.Expect laid-back, humourous chats that reveal the quirks of our guests’ travel habits and the places th
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