The Weekly Freestyle

This week we go behind the scenes and on deck as we hear about the recent British team's attempt to take the channel world record.

George Taplin world record holder, international athlete and all round nice guy makes his second appearance on the podcast.

Away from the channel attempt we hear about George's incredible swims up in the Lake District and his take and knowledge on attempting to plan a challenge like this.

Enjoy!

Donate here: https://www.rlss.org.uk/donate/back-the-swim-break-the-record-save-lives

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This week TWF has the pleasure of welcoming CEO of the Swimming Teachers' Association, Dave Candler onto the podcast.

Dave has spent his career in the world of aquatics and has most recently just reached a decade in his current role at the helm of the STA.

Throughout the episode we get into Dave's journey within in the world of aquatics and how things have changed while he's been in the role. We discuss how great being a swimming teacher is and the power of swimming.

In this episode of The Weekly Freestyle, Alex is joined by Luke Withers to chat about the new swimming season, the Arena League, and some of the big events coming up in the swimming world.

They also discuss the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympics, the upcoming World Championships in Budapest, and the challenges of swimming in Brisbane’s crocodile-filled river!

The pair also look ahead to an exciting British Channel swim relay, including the team’s preparations, the 10-day window, and the possibility of setting a new British record.

A relaxed chat about swimming, comp...

This week Alex and Luke catch up on the recent swimming news headlines.

We discuss the different types of swimming social media.

And Ryan Lochte is making a comeback is he thinking of being in LA 28??

Enjoy 😃

On this week's episode we wrap our review of the amazing European Champs. This week's episode focuses on the best performances in the pool across Europe.

We see Sara Curtis transform backstroke - will others follow suit? Could Leon break the world record in his tenth best event?!

This week we discuss the European Championships (PART 1)

From our top European performances, our relays and we have the pleasure to Luke Guy joining the podcast too.

This week Luke is joined by Tom Dean as they discuss the recent Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The pair discuss the home nations performances and Tom’s swims too. How do Tom’s medal rank when compared to others that he’s won in his career?

Luke highlights some other great performances across the pool too

This week Alex and Luke discuss Euro

juniors.

Charlie Harris joins Alex to look back at a weekend of fast swimming in Edinburgh at the Scottish National Open Championships and the standout performances making waves across the sport. They discuss impressive swims from Katie Shanahan, Angharad Evans, Duncan Scott and more, before turning their attention to the Sette Colli Trophy in Rome, where world records continued to tumble and the international standard reached new heights.

With Glasgow 2026 fast approaching, Charlie also shares an insight into Team Scotland’s preparations for the Commonwealth Games, from training camps and relay racing to the balance between building excitement an...

Join host Alex and Luke Withers for a jam-packed episode that kicks off with some lighter moments, including the UK's recent heatwave, a disastrous Father's Day meal, and Alex’s latest open-water swimming experiment. Beyond the personal updates, the hosts pivot to the essential topic of water safety education during hot weather, reflecting on valuable lessons from the Swimming Teachers Association (STA) and discussing the benefits of international training camps for professional swimmers.

The conversation shifts to the competitive pool, where the duo breaks down the latest world records and emerging international talent, including highlights from the 200 br...

This week on the Weekly Freestyle Podcast, we’re shining a spotlight on Drowning Prevention Week and why water safety is a message everyone needs to hear. Alex and former RAF Regiment soldier Mike Goody discuss the Water Safety Code, the dangers of cold water shock, peer pressure around open water, and why taking a moment to “stop and think” can save lives. They also explore why swimming should remain a priority in schools and how education is key to preventing avoidable tragedies.

Alongside these vital conversations, Mike shares his extraordinary personal journey. After losing his leg and su...

This week join both Luke's as they catch up over the recent AP Race meet.

A show usually for our Patreon listeners enjoy this on the main feed for this week!

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Bonus Clip from our full Patreon Freestyle Show ⭐

Jess joins Luke as they discuss their swimming ICKS!!!

listen to the full episode and support TWF here!

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After 15 years away from competitive swimming, Liam Bourke is preparing to return to racing at the Reading Masters Championships. In this episode of The Weekly Freestyle Podcast, Liam discusses what motivated him to get back on the blocks, the challenges of returning to sprint racing, and why he wants to lead by example for the swimmers he coaches. He also shares his goals for the coming season and his ambition to continue progressing towards future Masters Nationals competition.

The conversation also explores how swimming has opened up opportunities far beyond the pool. Liam reflects on recent trips...

In this episode, we dive into the importance of water safety and how simple knowledge can save lives. Whether you’re heading to the beach, swimming in open water, boating, or supervising children near water, understanding the risks and knowing how to respond in an emergency is essential.

We also highlight guidance from the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), who provide expert advice on staying safe around water. Their education programmes and safety campaigns help people of all ages learn vital lifesaving skills and water safety awareness.

To learn mo...

This week Alex and Luke Withers break down all the action from the AP Race event in London, discussing the electric atmosphere, international field, and why the meet continues to be one of the standout showcases in British swimming. They also examine the realities of hosting an event of this scale and why the format must remain selective to stay sustainable for clubs and organisers alike.

The pair review some of the biggest performances of the weekend, including Filip Nowaki becoming the first British swimmer to go sub-60 in all four 100m strokes, standout freestyle swims from...

Luke Withers is joined by Luke Guy as they catch up and discuss the upcoming AP Race meet and so much more.

Away from the free episodes it gives both Lukes a chance to speak with real freedom and provide some incredible insight and analysis as per usual.

BONUS CONTENT HERE

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This week Alex Sutton and Luke Withers dive head first into the chaos surrounding the Commonwealth Games and European Championships selections 👀

From shock omissions to confusing policies, the boys break down the biggest talking points coming out of Team England’s decisions, including why some swimmers booked their spot while others were left watching from home despite delivering at trials.

They discuss the complicated selection process behind the scenes, relay politics, returning athletes, junior swimmers being thrown into senior competition, and whether trying to race both Commonwealths and Europeans could end up helping or hurting perfo...

This week TWF has the pleasure of being joined by Liam Bourke, better known as Swim With Liam across social media. Although Liam has been immersed in the world of swimming for more than a decade, his rise online has happened in less than a year, with his engaging coaching content reaching thousands of swimmers, parents, and coaches around the world. From balancing a demanding coaching schedule to building a rapidly growing online presence, Liam shares the story behind his journey and the passion that drives everything he does.

We dive into how Liam transformed the swimming...

This week Alex is joined by Luke Withers who review the second half of champs.

This includes races such as: Men's 100 Fly, Women's 400 Free, Women's 200 Breast, Women's 100 Fly and so many more!

We decide on our race and swim of the week too.

We finally sit down and review the first half of the AGB Champs.

With plenty of world class swims, we discuss our favourites.

Enjoy!

A day(s) in the life at AGB Champs - the premier event in the domestic calendar.

Hear who the podcast speaks to including a host of athletes, contributors to the show and anyone we could get our mic in front of!

Our massive Champs Preview

Tom Dean Speaks to the pod

We are swimming on TUESDAY!!

The Weekly Freestyle Podcast hits the “nervy 90s” with plenty to unpack, from behind-the-scenes chaos to big moments in the swimming world. There’s talk of listener involvement and a potential chance to join an upcoming relay, alongside recognition from the Royal Holloway Colors Ball where a Coach of the Year nomination, Freshman of the Year win, and a crest award capped off a strong night for the club.

A huge focus is on Cam McEvoy’s 20.88 world record in the 50m freestyle, breaking down the explosive start, race execution, and the ultra low-volume, race-pace training...

This week’s episode of The Weekly Freestyle dives into the creative mind of Lily Csonka, exploring how spontaneity shapes their content and why some of the best ideas come in the most unexpected moments. From filming on the fly to scrolling through TikTok for inspiration, Lily shares the reality of bringing ideas to life and the challenges of working in an environment where not everyone wants to be on camera. It is an honest look at creativity without structure, where not everything goes to plan but authenticity always wins.

The conversation also uncovers the balance between sh...

Edinburgh bonus review show

In this episode, Alex Sutton sits down with Sam Lawman to dive into his unique journey through the world of life saving sport. Sam shares how he transitioned from standard pool swimming into a discipline that blends speed, endurance, and real world rescue skills, arguing that while it demands more technical ability, it also offers greater longevity in the water.

The conversation explores Great Britain’s position on the global stage, highlighting the strong team culture shaped by the strategic format of World Championship competition. Sam also reflects on one of the defining moments of his career, th...

In this episode, Alex sits down with swimming content creator Lily Csonka, who joins the show while visiting her hometown of Győr, Hungary before returning to her new home just outside Barcelona. Lily shares the unexpected way she entered the swimming world through volunteering at the 2017 European Youth Olympic Festival in Győr. What began as a simple volunteer role quickly turned into a life-changing experience as she found herself surrounded by young athletes from across Europe and discovered a passion for the sport that would shape her career.

Lily reflects on her path from volunteering at...

This week on The Weekly Freestyle 🎙️ Alex Sutton is joined by swimmer, coach and on deck pundit Luke Withers to break down the BUCS Long Course Championships at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre 🏊‍♂️ BUCS, run by British Universities and Colleges Sport, continues to strike the perfect balance between high performance and university pride, delivering three days of fast racing, stacked finals and all out relays 🔥

We unpack the standout swims 🏆 Freya Colbert smashing a long standing 200 free record, Angharad Evans completing a dominant breaststroke triple, and Archie Goodburn lowering records while continuing to push his brain cancer research petition to...

The Weekly Freestyle is back with Olympic, World and Commonwealth medalist Freya Anderson, joining us for a candid update from her new training base in Stirling. She shares how she’s settling in after the move from Bath, adjusting to dark Scottish winter mornings, and getting stuck into competitive in house race sessions as part of the high performance environment. Freya reflects on a recent long course 100 free where her sprint speed is still building, but her technical work on dive starts, underwaters and turns is already paying off. In conversation with host Alex Sutton, we explore why skills st...

We've been working on something behind the scenes, and this is your first taste.

Here's a 10-minute snippet from our very first Patreon exclusive episode.

The full version goes deeper, with uncut conversations and content you won't hear anywhere else.

If you like what you hear, come join us on Patreon. Every penny goes straight back into the podcast, helping us get better kit, bigger guests, more episodes.

It's your listener support that helps grow the show.

For behind the scenes content and more, sign up for...

This week on Weekly Freestyle 🏊‍♂️, Alex Sutton is joined by Olympic champions Tom Dean and Freya Anderson, with top British coach Luke Withers dropping in for an episode packed with swimming insight, honest reflections, and plenty of laughs.

The conversation kicks off with a debate on the most iconic pools in the world 🌍, from Rome’s stunning Setti pool to memories of Budapest and tough training blocks away from home.

Luke then puts Tom and Freya under the microscope with a freestyle stroke breakdown 💥, comparing their styles and highlighting what makes each of them so effective in the...

This week, Alex Sutton is joined by Luke Guy for an episode that almost didn’t happen thanks to a small technical hiccup 😅. After regrouping, the boys dive straight into bonus territory, covering everything from Jim Guy’s unforgettable wedding and best man duties done properly 🍻 to shared accommodation dramas and freezing air con disputes ❄️.

The conversation then shifts poolside, with Luke opening up about his return to masters swimming, the realities of training load, and why swimming is truly an all or nothing sport 🏊‍♂️. There’s also a deep dive into what’s coming in 2026, including Commonwealth Games storylin...

Alex Sutton is joined by co host Luke Withers for a wide ranging catch up as the racing season kicks off. They open with life updates from the pool, including the shock of swimming in an uncomfortably warm 30.8°C pool, where masters swimmers voiced their complaints and Alex reluctantly admits to being one of them. Luke shares stories from a busy start to the season as both a swimmer and coach, while Alex reflects on returning to regular training and the small identity crisis that comes with moving between different pool environments.

The conversation then turns to o...

Alex Sutton is joined once again by Luke Guy, bringing an informed and honest perspective shaped by a lifetime in elite swimming and his work within the sport. Luke reflects on growing up alongside his brother James Guy, sharing how swimming was ingrained in family life from an early age and how a strong work ethic helped shape success at the highest level.

The conversation dives into the current state of British Swimming and the sport’s visibility more broadly. Luke offers clear views on what’s working, what needs to evolve, and why swimming continues to stru...

We’re back for 2026 with a Best Bits special!

Alex returns solo to the world-famous Wednesday 6 a.m. slot with a handpicked compilation of standout moments from 2025. Reflecting on the conversations, chaos, and characters that made the year unforgettable, this episode features:

Catch all the highlights, laughs, and unforgettable moments from last year!

...

🎄✨ The Weekly Freestyle – Christmas Special 2025 ✨🎄

Santa’s come early to The Weekly Freestyle 🎅🎙️ as Alex Sutton dons the Christmas hat and welcomes Luke Withers and a jet lagged Tom Dean back from Australia for a proper festive freestyle!

There are Christmas crackers (pulled correctly), questionable jokes, riddles that may or may not make sense, and gifts straight from around the world including a European Union sweatshirt and golf balls from Royal Sydney ⛳🎁. Drinks are poured, electrolytes are debated, and the festive vibes are flowing.

Tom breaks down a whirlwind travel schedule from Europe to Brisbane, chats racing m...

In this episode of The Weekly Freestyle, I’m joined once again by Charlie Harris - Digital Communications Officer at Scottish Swimming and host of The Aqua Pod let's dive straight into one of the biggest talking points in swimming right now.

Let’s get straight to it… are Team USA trying to sabotage Team GB ahead of the LA 2028 Olympics?

We break down the controversial changes to the Olympic swimming schedule, including the moving of the 200M IM closer to the 4by2oom freestyle Relay final:

This week we review the short course championships in Lublin, Poland. Luke Withers jumps on the show to discuss the week of racing.

GB took a smaller squad to this champs but does this make for the lack of silverware compared to 2 years ago in Romania?

We discuss the best swims of the week, new names rising through the ranks and even some DQs…

Should we be seeing our best swimmers at all of these major meets?

This week, host Alex is joined by Scottish swimming expert Charlie Harris, the voice behind the popular show The Aqua Pod. Together, they dive into all things swimming, life, and Scotland. Charlie shares his expert take on the ongoing European Short Course Championships offering predictions, highlighting key contenders, and breaking down where the biggest challenges lie.

To top it all off, the duo wraps up the episode with a fun round of “Higher or Lower,” featuring past championship host cities. It’s a lively, insightful, and highly entertaining episode you won’t want to miss!