Spectacular Slovakia
Podcast by The Slovak Spectator
The Slovak Spectator
Show overview
Spectacular Slovakia has been publishing since 2018, and across the 7 years since has built a catalogue of 160 episodes. That works out to roughly 45 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a monthly cadence.
Episodes typically run ten to twenty minutes — most land between 11 min and 20 min — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Society & Culture show.
There hasn’t been a new episode in the last ninety days; the most recent episode landed 7 months ago. The busiest year was 2019, with 50 episodes published. Published by The Slovak Spectator.
From the publisher
Podcast by The Slovak Spectator
Latest Episodes
View all 160 episodesLife in the Slovak Seattle
British writer and lecturer Jonathan Gresty sits down with Oscar Brophy to discuss why he came to Slovakia, what’s kept him here for more than three decades, and what this country has taught him about his native England.
Vinobranie? Wine not!
Oscar Brophy hits the streets of Bratislava-Rača, microphone in hand, capturing the sounds and stories of Vinobranie — the city’s beloved wine festival.
Slovakia, on purpose
Slovakia’s tourism industry faces the challenge of shifting from being a convenient stopover to becoming an intentional destination, and companies like GOAT CE Tours are leading the way by using storytelling and authentic experiences to reshape perceptions and encourage longer, purposeful visits. Host: Oscar Brophy | Guests: Patrik Calovka, Michal Varachovič, and Mitch Leffler.
Stargazing in Slovakia
Comedians Matúš Toderiška and Marián Psár bring their astronomy podcast Slnečná zostava (Solar Lineup) to Spectacular Slovakia. We talk stargazing, observatories, dark-sky parks, and the humour in exploring the universe. Host: Oscar Brophy.
Bratislava and the silence of old walls
In this king-sized episode of Spectacular Slovakia, host Oscar Brophy is joined by historian Juraj Poláček to delve into the rich history of Slovakia’s medieval castles – tracing their development from the Bronze Age to the modern era. Poláček explains how early wooden fortifications evolved into stone strongholds following the 13th-century Mongol invasion, with Slovakia’s strategic position demanding increasingly robust defences. Highlights include Trenčín Castle, with its 16th-century bastion, and the ruins of Spiš Castle – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This episode is a must-listen for history enthusiasts and travellers keen to discover these enduring symbols of the nation’s past.
SNP Trail: Do you have what it takes?
Spanning 770 kilometres from the Dukla Pass in the east to Devín Castle near Bratislava in the west, Slovakia’s SNP Trail — Cesta Hrdinov SNP (Path of the Heroes of the Slovak National Uprising) — is more than just a long walk. It is an immersive experience that blends historical depth, physical challenge, and the raw beauty of Slovak landscapes. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a motivated beginner, the SNP Trail offers a unique opportunity to test your limits and connect with both nature and history. Guest: Peter Kvačkay Host: Oscar Brophy
Touring socialist Bratislava
Host Oscar Brophy joins Branislav Chrenka of Authentic Slovakia to explore Bratislava's socialist modernist architecture, including landmarks like the Slavín memorial, Petržalka's prefabs and the Slovak Radio's inverted pyramid. Chrenka explains how ideology and immigration shaped the city's bold 1970s–80s designs. The episode also spotlights Authentic Slovakia's offbeat tours.
A comedian’s guide to getting lost – and fed – in Košice
Oscar Brophy teams up with Košice native and comedian Diana Renner to explore the vibrant charm of Slovakia’s second city. From the bustling Hlavná ulica and the grandeur of St Elizabeth’s Cathedral to the gritty punk-rock hideout Colosseum, they delve into the city’s blend of history, culture and underground cool.
Bratislava's best view?
Oscar Brophy chats with walking tour magnate Jakub Hanzel about the best that Bratislava has to offer, along with a light discussion of the long and varied history of Slovakia's capital. Find out more about Discover Bratislava at https://freetourbratislava.com/.
Why a British Teacher Chose Slovakia as Home
From London to Poland, and now to Slovakia, this story shows how languages can open doors — to careers, cultures, and even love.
Building a marketing powerhouse in the East
A journey that put Košice on Slovakia’s digital marketing map.
From Mexico to Slovakia: How can one find a new life
Tanya Benito’s journey to Slovakia began as a professional opportunity but quickly turned into a life-changing experience.
From beats to scripts – the multifaceted talent of a Slovak artist
Miriam Fulmeková, a 30-year-old Slovak DJ, screenwriter, and dramaturg, seamlessly blends music and storytelling, creating a unique artistic voice.
Scientist with a comedic twist
Milan "Docent" Sedliak is a Slovak scientist, nutrition expert, and stand-up comedian who excels at blending science and humor.
Trnava’s mayor balances modernisation with tradition
Driving sustainable urban development and modernisation while preserving the city's cultural heritage and fostering community engagement.
Redefining Slovak journalism for a new generation
Through exclusive interviews, detailed analyses, and compelling stories, Closer connects younger readers with the heart of Slovakia.
A Vietnamese Slovak’s quest for belonging
Kvet Nguyen, a Slovak artist and writer of Vietnamese descent, captures the beauty and complexity of living between cultures in her work and storytelling.
Petush Nasklee: Redefining individuality via fashion, art and genuine discussions
Petra Klimová Dzvoníková, known online as Petush Nasklee, is a Slovak influencer and podcaster who uses her platform to empower others through her open approach to fashion, art and mental health awareness.
Spontaneous bike ride to a heart-shaped bench
Ready for a ride? In the picturesque Rajec valley, visitors can ride a bike in all directions without getting lost. I am living proof. Host: Peter Dlhopolec
"Lobster" climbing in Slovak Tuscany
Our next trip around the Žilina Region will be slightly Italian because of its name. We'll climb Slovakia's oldest via ferrata. It can be found in the Turiec area, which is compared to the Tuscany region in Italy. Host: Peter Dlhopolec