WILD FOLK with Beans on Toast

Derek McAllister – Nanny Mac

In the sixth and final episode of The Wild Folk Podcast, Beans on Toast sits down with his dad, Derek McAllister, at the family kitchen table over a glass of wine. Together they talk about Derek’s mum, Nanny Mac, her wild side, and her days playing piano in East End boozers at the end of the Second World War. As the stories unfold, Beans learns things he never knew about his nan and his family history. The two chat about parenting and how it has changed over the years, East End gangsters, recreational drugs, and the curious ways certain traits and stories get passed down through generations. A funny, honest and heartfelt conversation between father and son, filled with memories, laughter and a few surprises. https://www.beansontoastmusic.com/

Nick Hayes - The Commons

In the fifth episode of The Wild Folk Podcast, Beans on Toast joins author, illustrator and activist Nick Hayes aboard his canal boat on the River Thames for a wide-ranging chat about land, freedom and connection to the natural world. Together they talk trespassing, land rights, the Right to Roam movement, and Nick’s new book about Ancient England. The conversation drifts between music, trees and a shared love of nature. A thoughtful and inspiring exploration of what it really means to belong to the land. https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/book-of-trespass-9781526604729/ https://www.instagram.com/nickhayesillustration https://www.beansontoastmusic.com/

Loraine Burgon – A Real Rock ’n’ Roller

In the fourth episode of The Wild Folk Podcast, Beans on Toast sits down with Loraine Burgon, a true rock ’n’ roller with an extraordinary story to tell. From growing up in Nottingham to dancing on stage at Woodstock, Loraine’s early life is a wild ride through music, freedom and the countercultural dream. The two talk about her book Magical Highs, the twists and turns of her youth, and how their own unlikely friendship came about. It’s a heartfelt and fascinating chat with a woman whose life has been every bit as colourful as the songs it inspired. Pick up a copy of Lorraine's book here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/magical-highs-alvin-lee-and-me/loraine-burgon/9781915858276 https://www.beansontoastmusic.com/

Gig – The Golden Lion

In the third episode of The Wild Folk Podcast, Beans on Toast sits down with Gig, the heart and soul behind the legendary Golden Lion in Todmorden. From her journey growing up in Thailand to running one of the UK’s most magical and community-driven venues, Gig’s story is full of adventure, spirit and cosmic wonder. The two chat about her path to Yorkshire, the birth of the Golden Lion, and what it takes to create a true home for music and creativity. Along the way they touch on UFOs, fairies, community, and that time the two of them tried to smoke a spliff with The Wailers. A funny, inspiring conversation from one of the most unique places in Britain. https://www.goldenliontodmorden.com/ https://www.beansontoastmusic.com/ [https://www.beansontoastmusic.com/]

Mr Lee – My Favourite Teacher

In the second episode of The Wild Folk Podcast, Beans on Toast sits down with his old drama teacher, Mr Lee. Back in the 90s at Notley High School, Mr Lee inspired a teenage Beans, sparking a love of performance that shaped his entire life and career. Decades later, a chance discovery of long-lost school play recordings led to the pair reconnecting, and inspired the song My Favourite Teacher from the 2020 album Knee Deep in Nostalgia. In this conversation they reminisce about those school days, talk teaching, creativity, music and the long-lasting impact of a great teacher. A touching and thoughtful episode celebrating inspiration, gratitude and the people who change our lives. https://www.beansontoastmusic.com/