INFLECTION POINT - Matt Porteous

🌍 In this episode of Inflection Point, I meet Sarah Simon, a tireless campaigner raising awareness about PFAS contamination—or "forever chemicals"—in Jersey. These chemicals, including PFOA and PFOS, leached into the environment from firefighting foam used at the island’s airport. The pollution has had a profound impact on Sarah’s health, as well as that of her family and neighbors. Sarah’s story mirrors the environmental crisis depicted in the film Dark Waters (highly recommended viewing!), and incredibly, the lawyer portrayed in that film has endorsed her campaign. Despite battling serious health challenges, Sarah continues to fight for change—not just for her area but for the entire island of Jersey, where the extent of contamination remains uncertain. What I loved most about this conversation wasn’t just her tenacity or her meticulous research into this evolving issue but her infectious love of life. We delve into her early years, her personal journey, and the solace she finds in her bird sanctuary, where she rescues and cares for injured birds. It’s her optimism, even in the face of adversity, that truly inspires. For context, Jersey Water is aware of the PFAS contamination and is actively monitoring levels in the drinking water, which they report are currently below their set limits. The Jersey Government has also begun addressing the issue by conducting blood tests and taking steps to assess the wider risks associated with PFAS. However, the safe limit for these chemicals remains a topic of global debate. As Sarah highlights, some countries, like Denmark, have taken a precautionary approach by setting the bar as close to zero as possible—a stance that raises important questions for Jersey. Sarah is a vibrant and determined figure whose character might sometimes make her a polarising advocate, but her dedication to uncovering the truth and pushing for action is undeniable. For me, her story is a reminder that when it comes to protecting our health and environment, persistence is key—and sometimes, we all need a little of Sarah’s fighting spirit. Further Reading & Resources: Sarah in Manner Magazine 2025 Guardian article Dark Waters Trailer BBC Radio Documentary on PFAS in Jersey Jersey Water on PFAS Jersey Government's PFAS Info Oh and it's Zero Water or Epic Water Filters to get rid of Forever Chemicals: https://zerowater.co.uk https://epicwaterfilters.co.uk

Join me on a journey through time and self-discovery as I sit down with the extraordinary Lucy O'Sullivan, an international archer for Team GB and Jersey, a talented personal trainer, BBC Sports Journalist, and now Christmas song singer/songwriter. My wife suggested I enlist Lucy's services as a personal trainer. Little did I know that this decision would not only transform my fitness and posture but also open the door to the world of Lucy. Lucy's story takes us back to her days as a child and teen international archer, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs she faced in this demanding sport. But the real highlight of this episode is when I ask Lucy the intriguing hypothetical question: "If you could travel back in time, what age would you choose, and what advice would you give your younger self?" Prepare to be inspired as Lucy shares her insights, wisdom, and the lessons she has learned along the way. Follow Lucy O'Sullivan and her incredible journey: Website: https://www.strengthbylucy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/osullivan_archery/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strengthbylucy/

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts because we're revving up for Episode Four, featuring the one and only James Walker of the racing world! If the sound of roaring engines and adrenaline-pumping action gets your heart racing, then this episode is a must-listen. Now, I must confess, I was as clueless as a penguin on an ice rink when it came to racing, but let me tell you, I was absolutely blown away by what I discovered! Get ready for a wild ride as we dive headfirst into James' high-speed journey. And don't worry, even if you're not a racing car driver, we'll connect on an emotional level that'll leave you feeling like you've just crossed the finish line of your own personal race. So, sit back, relax, and let's hit the gas on this thrilling conversation with James Walker. Buckle up because it's going to be one heck of a joyride! Also here are some links to the clips mentioned: 2008 Superleague Formula: https://youtu.be/CqHYvHUB3hQ?si=HFZXhKu1qgmj7itF Le Man 2013: https://youtu.be/4WjxPVEQjL0?si=j5il3Z_HDL8Ay69C Crash: https://youtu.be/_4QLUgvrlFc?si=XjyxyxAqNCho2qPd

And we're back with our third episode with world record making sea swimmer Sally Minty-Gravett MBE. I naively asked her to meet and go for a swim. Well I got out after 10metres in the 13 degree water. She was impressed ;)  I learn about what has driven her world record beating, multi English Channel, one way, two way, award winning swimming and her swim teaching career. Whilst living through the complication and connection of having to care for a partner that is terminally ill. Laying the foundation to her answering our key question, 'If you could go back in time and meet your self, when would you go back and what would you say?'

Well the first episode with Conrad went down well, so we're back with a new episode where we ask Matt Porteous; if you could go back in time and meet yourself, when would you go back and what would you say? Before we ask that, I meet him at his home where we talk about photography, the sea, royal photos, leaving school, stone masonry and much more! Matt is a legend. In his own words 'Environmental portrait, Royal family Photographer and Ocean Storyteller'. He's annoyingly talented and hard working. Not only in his commercial work but his charity work with Ocean Culture. It's not been a straight forwards journey for Matt as I learn. Enjoy! Need to fuel up the time machine.

In this series I am meeting people who have changed direction in life. Then asking them if they could go back in time and meet their younger self, when would they go back to and what would they say. In my first episode I go off to meet Conrad Yates. Conrad was a crown prosecutor (prosecuted people in court on behalf of the government) and has now left that role. Through maybe design or accident or a mixture of both he has become a Land Rover influencer; digital creator and defender restorer. Following his life long love of Land Rover defenders he has a loyal following of like minded devotees of all things Defender. Maybe he's a tribal leader but what got him from being a Crown Prosecutor to fixing up these 4 wheel objects of desire?  We then ask him too join us on our time machine and take us back to a moment in his life. And we discover what he would say to himself. It's definitely worth listening to.  Also if you're a Defender lover tell me the defender type by the sounds it makes?