In this podcast, Harrie and Craig take a light-hearted look at their current favourite whisky, things that have got them thinking lately, other things that just pop into their heads while they’re talking, and matters that have slowly taken on more significance as they ease their way into the last third of their lives.
In this episode, Craig and Harrie sample a Limeburners Infinity Solera Single Malt Whisky. The boys consider the centrality of the kitchen to many memories, breaking eggs, psychic readings, passion for music, and passing the pub test. The special guest in this episode is Ross Bolleter, Craig’s piano teacher from his teens.
7 Sept 2026
Episode 13
In this episode, Craig and Harrie taste a German Single Malt Whisky (brand unknown) that Craig found in Heidelberg. The boys discuss the end of the footy season, random acts of kindness, and haircuts. The special guest in this episode is Geoff Hutchison who talks about his book “How Not to Become a Grumpy Old Bugger.”
23 Aug 2026
Episode 12
In this episode, Craig and Harrie sample the Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey and discuss setting a retirement date, the physical changes that 20 years can bring, artificial intelligence vs. academic integrity, and advertising on free-to-air TV. There is no special guest in this episode. Instead, the boys consider some retirement advice from Instagram (middlemiles).
9 Aug 2026
Episode 11
In this episode, Craig and Harrie taste a Dewars 8 years Japanese Smooth Blended Whisky and chat about the interesting world of Instagram fandom, working from home, the rock n roll lifestyle, and getting away with friends. The special guest in this episode is Alison Fresina, a former school teacher. Alison discusses looking after aged parents and pets during retirement, spending money later in life, and how retirement is like being back at school and only doing the subjects you like, when you like.
26 Jul 2026
Episode 10
In this episode, Craig and Harrie sample a Suntory Royal Japanese Whisky and discuss the crazy differences in prices for the same whisky. They also chat about the strength of memories for childhood injuries, losing friends, caravanning, red dirt, utes and towing capacity. The special guest in this episode is Doctor John Forbes, a clinical psychologist. John talks about some of the issues he has helped people work through in relation to retirement and finding happiness in learning new things. John and Craig tasted a Tamdhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
12 Jul 2026
Episode 9
In this episode, Craig and Harrie share the delights of a Redbreast Single Pot Still 12 year old Irish Whiskey as the episode was recorded on St Patrick’s Day. They also discuss the advantages of getting house jobs done by experts. The special guest in this episode is Professor Craig Valli, an expert in Cyber Security. Craig talks about his career in computer science, provides tips on keeping digitally secure, tells us what it is like to have a heart attack, and considers the benefits of retirement.
23 Mar 2026
Episode 8
In this episode, Craig and Harrie discuss “wanky” tasting notes, long weekends and how preparing to take a break means having to work harder before and after the break, customer service and that it’s best to avoid restaurants in tourist areas, BYO desserts, running vs. jogging, and the benefits of laughing. The special guest in this episode is Professor Rob Newton AM, an expert in Exercise Medicine. Rob provides a lively account of his research on the benefits of exercise in treating cancer and facilitating rehabilitation following treatment.
9 Mar 2026
Episode 7
In this episode, Craig and Harrie discuss the pause in production announced by several bourbon producers, changes in drinking habits around the world, the pros and cons of AI in the workplace, and procrastination. The special guest interviewed in this episode is Peter Camplin, who talks about his career in banking and finance, retirement and surviving cancer.
23 Feb 2026
Episode 6
In this episode, Craig and Harrie discuss the idea of rest in retirement, and the changing nature of ‘having a coffee with a friend’ and the complexity associated with considering contrary opinions. The special guest in this episode is Tracy Swanson, a cardiac rehabilitation nurse specialist, and wife of Harrie. Tracy provides valuable information and advice regarding heart health.
9 Feb 2026
Episode 5
In this episode Craig and Harrie discuss the wildlife situation in Hillarys, splitting bills in restaurants, the bizarre experience of being asked for a tip prior to receiving any service, and the varying quality of “customer service”. Their special guest in this episode is Carlo Sapienza, who spent his working life in the banking industry, and is now happily retired with various activities keeping him as busy as he likes.
16 Nov 2025
Episode 4
Craig and Harrie sample another of Starboard's finest whiskys - the Ginger Beer Cask Single Malt Australian Whisky - while considering the relative dangers of bees, security doors and reliving the past. Their special guest today is Geoff Black, and expert in being retired.
9 Nov 2025
Episode 3
Craig interviews his brother, Jonathan Speelman. Craig and Harrie consider the pros and cons of semi-retirement, and explore the surprise of whiskies from Bhutan.
2 Nov 2025
Episode 2
Craig interviews his Dad, Paul Speelman, and Craig and Harrie discuss the idea that retiring from work doesn't suit everyone. They also luxuriate in the delights of Whipper Snapper's Upshot Australian Corn Whiskey.
26 Oct 2025
Episode 1
Craig Speelman and Harrie Swanson share their thoughts about entering the last third of life, while enjoying the delights of Starward's Nova single-malt whisky.
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