The Bedford Podcast

Iain Armstrong

5.0 (1)
SOCIETY & CULTURE

Local Bedford podcast hosted by Ken Parsons.

6D AGO

Ken talks to Neil Mills - Part 2, The Decision That Changed Everything

After years of living on the edge, Neil reached a breaking point—and made a decision that changed his life forever. In the second half of the podcast, he shares how he quit drugs overnight, rebuilt his life through discipline and hard work, and eventually discovered endurance running. What began as a personal challenge has grown into a 950-mile run across the UK to raise money for Young Lives vs Cancer. This part of the story is about resilience, second chances and proving that your past doesn’t have to define your future. Support the show

35 min
MAR 18

Ken talks to Neil Mills - Part 1, Trouble, Choices and a Life Heading the Wrong Way

Neil Mills grew up in South London surrounded by gangs, drugs and chaos. Bullied at school and labelled a “lost cause” by teachers, he drifted into crime at a young age and quickly became the person everyone expected him to be. In this raw first half of the conversation, Neil reflects on the environment that shaped him, the mistakes he made and the reality of life on the streets. It’s an honest look at how easily young people can fall into the wrong world—and the moment when Neil realised he had a choice: keep going down that road or fight to change direction. Support the show

31 min
FEB 13

Ken talks to Richard Harpham - Part 1 - Foundations. Community. Inspiration.

In this episode of The Bedford Podcast, Ken Parsons sits down with adventurer, entrepreneur and outdoor pioneer Richard Harpham. From growing up in Bromham and finding his tribe at Bedford Blues, to kayaking across oceans and launching Canoe Trail on the River Great Ouse, Richard’s story is one of energy, resilience and possibility. They explore the power of sport, the importance of role models, and why Bedford’s green and blue spaces are its greatest assets. It’s a conversation about community, courage and the “Bedford effect” — and how one town can inspire adventures that reach around the world. Support the show

20 min
FEB 13

Ken talks to Richard Harpham - Part 2 - Adventure. Resilience. Possibility.

In the second half, Richard shares the mindset behind his biggest adventures — from kayaking to Alaska and racing the Devizes to Westminster, to cycling across the Sahara and paddling from Niagara Falls to New York. He speaks honestly about exhaustion, resilience, and the humbling power of nature. The conversation returns to Bedford, celebrating its sporting culture, river life, and community spirit. Richard discusses future growth, including Universal, and the importance of protecting the town’s green and blue spaces. It’s a powerful reflection on possibility, perspective, and why Bedford continues to punch well above its weight. Support the show

35 min
JAN 22

Ken talks to Tara Adams - Part 1: Roots, Resilience & Tug of War

In Part One, Ken Parsons speaks with Bedford-born athlete Tara Adams about her early life, local roots, and remarkable journey into elite sport. Tara reflects on growing up in Bedford, influential family moments, and discovering tug of war — a sport in which she would go on to represent England and Team GB on the world stage. She explains the technical, physical, and mental demands of the sport, challenges common misconceptions, and shares what it takes to sustain high-level performance over decades. This episode is a powerful exploration of discipline, teamwork, and the foundations of lifelong resilience. Support the show

21 min
JAN 22

Ken talks to Tara Adams - Part 2: Oceans, Extremes & What Comes Next

Part Two takes the conversation far beyond Bedford as Tara Adams recounts some of the most extreme challenges of her life. She describes rowing across the Atlantic Ocean in a small crewed boat, facing storms, isolation, exhaustion, and moments of genuine fear — alongside awe-inspiring experiences of nature and human endurance. Tara also discusses longevity, motherhood, mindset, and her next challenge: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for charity. Honest and gripping, this episode explores what drives someone to continually seek the edge of their comfort zone — and how resilience is built through action, not words. Support the show

28 min
12/19/2025

Ken talks to Dave Sims

In this episode, we sit down with Kempston historian and local legend David Sims for a rich, humorous, and deeply personal journey through the town’s past. From the iconic Kempston Barracks to the much-loved Addison Howard Park, David brings to life the stories, characters, and hidden history that shaped generations. He reveals how the barracks once bustled with soldiers, schools, hospitals, and daily military life, and explains the poignant origins of Addison Howard Park, gifted to the people of Kempston in memory of a fallen son of the Howard family. We dive into nostalgic memories of old shops, long-lost pubs, and the tight-knit barbers who once formed the beating heart of the high street. David shares childhood tales, local legends, and the quirks of community life—from skittles teams and charity events to schoolboy mischief and unforgettable characters. We also uncover how Kempston’s places got their names, the town’s Roman and Saxon roots, and the ghost stories that still echo around Water Lane. Whether you’re a lifelong Kempston resident or discovering its heritage for the first time, this episode delivers laughter, insight, and a heartfelt celebration of a remarkable community. Support the show

1h 11m
10/31/2025

Ken talks to Beth Brittain

This ok for the synopsis and title? Ken talks to Beth Brittain. This episode of the Bedford Podcast features Bethany Brittain (née Dix), a double world champion dodgeball player and former Super League netball captain. Beth shares her journey from growing up in Bedford to balancing bar work, university, and elite sport. She discusses her early passion for sport, overcoming health challenges, and the drive that led her to represent England in dodgeball and later captain Leeds Rhinos Netball. The conversation highlights the sacrifices behind sporting success, gender inequality in professional sport, and the strong support of her family. Beth also reflects warmly on Bedford’s community spirit and favourite local spots. Support the show

42 min

Local Bedford podcast hosted by Ken Parsons.

Creator

Iain Armstrong
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

13
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 The Bedford Podcast
Show Website

The Bedford Podcast