The HelenaSips Podcast

This episode is a little different in format, as I managed to grab some time with Sam Neill while on a recent wine press trip to New Zealand before I knew The HelenaSips Podcast would exist!In this intimate chat, we hear about Sam’s philosophy on wine and the character of each of the Central Otago subregions where he grows his grapes for Two Paddocks. We hear what he drinks when it’s not Pinot, get an explanation of each of his cuvées as songs, discover his favourite role to play and learn why he will never put his wine under a cork again!Please subscribe if you enjoy these conversations - and tell your friends.Find Sam NeillInstagram: @samneillthepropIn the glass…Two Paddocks Estate Pinot Noir 2024Silky, elegant and aromatic with notes of wild herbs and bright red cherry. A delight! twopaddocks.com*******Liked this? Listen to more episodes:Designer & entrepreneur, Cath KidstonChocolate author, Joanne HarrisBroadcaster & super athlete, Vassos AlexanderCo-Founder of Renais Gin, Alex Watson This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.helenasips.com/subscribe

In this episode, Helena Nicklin talks to Vassos Alexander, a much-loved broadcaster and endurance athlete, about his journey from an ordinary, self-described “regular bloke” to someone who thrives on pushing the limits of human capability. The conversation explores how running, swimming and extreme physical challenges have reshaped his relationship with his body, alcohol and daily rituals, replacing old habits with a deeper sense of purpose, discipline, and connection to both nature and self. For Vassos, joy and contentment come not from comfort, but from stepping beyond it, testing boundaries and embracing the discomfort that ultimately makes life feel more vivid and meaningful. Ultimately, we hear about his simple but powerful philosophy: to seek out challenges, savour everyday pleasures and consciously “squeeze the juice” out of life, finding playfulness and joy in even the most ordinary moments.Find Vassos AlexanderInstagram: @vassos.alexanderBooks:Swimmingly, by Vassos AlexanderRunning Up That Hill, by Vassos AlexanderDon’t Stop Me Now, by Vassos AlexanderIn the glass…A crisp, light red wine. Try Frappato: a native red wine grape from Sicily, that’s all about earthy strawberry with a bit of spice. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.helenasips.com/subscribe

In this episode, Helena Nicklin chats to Cath Kidston, a much-loved creative founder based in the UK. Known for her eponymous, global lifestyle brand, we discuss her new venture, C. Atherley, which was inspired by nature and scented geraniums.Hear about her journey from the early 90s vintage market to building a brand rooted in nostalgia and everyday pleasure as well as her transition from homewares to body care and home fragrance with her new brand, C.Atherley. Along the way, we’ll hear Cath’s thoughts on the importance of creating a welcoming home and the influence of her father's legacy on her work.Find Cath KidstonC-atherley.com Instagram: @c.atherleylondon@cathkidstonpagham This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.helenasips.com/subscribe