On The Sofa With Rouge
by Michelle Rugeroni
Join Rouge for her first podcast series "Extraordinary Ordinary People". Interviewing friends and family from all walks of life with incredible individual stories. Presented and Recorded by Michelle Rugeroni. Sound edited and produced by Charlie Hurst. Original artwork designed by Beatrice Garcia.
Episodes
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One of A Kind - Priscilla Chellaram Hathiramani and Alison Prior
This week, One of a Kind becomes Two of a Kind! My two guests share a passion for helping people move better, feel better and enjoy a healthier, more active life. So many of us experience back pain and mobility issues for all sorts of reasons. Biomechanics specialist Alison Prior and Osteopath...
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Interns, Kai-Henning Kotschmar & Alice Broughton
In this last episode of The Nautilus Project Podcast, we chat with two university interns, Kai-Henning Kotschmar a Geoecology student from Germany and Alice Broughton a student at Plymouth University studying Marine Biology & Coastal ecology , who spent a month in Gibraltar working on a variety…
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One of A Kind - Chris Walker
This is a story about one of Gibraltar’s standout athletes, with an incredible passion for sport, an unwavering determination to achieve his goals and a relentless mind set to keep going for as long as he can. But what really goes on inside the mind of Chris Walker? What does he think about when...
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On The Menu - Chef Renu B
We’re back with On the Menu with Rouge! This week, we’re chatting to the inspirational Chef Renu Ballantine — who swapped 25 years in the corporate engineering world for a life filled with food, creativity and entrepreneurship. Now a private chef, caterer, consultant and cooking-class host, Renu...
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One of a Kind - John Pitto
In this months podcast we get to meet a third-generation member of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Frederick John Pitto. His journey has taken him from Gibraltar to Sandhurst and on to operational service, including Afghanistan, before returning home to take command of the…
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One of a Kind - Father Charlie Azzopardi, Bishop of Gibraltar
It took me six months to pin down Bishop Charles Azzopardi—better known to us all as Fr Charlie—and every moment of the wait was worth it. I spent nearly an hour chatting with him at St Theresa's, his beloved parish church, where he begins each day at 5.30am. During our conversation, he shared…
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Diver, Marine Conservationist and Author - Natalia Rodriguez Ruiz
Natalia Rodríguez Ruiz is a Spanish diver, freediver, ocean communicator, and emerging marine conservation advocate from Cádiz, whose lifelong connection to the sea began in early childhood after seeing whales and dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar. Driven by a passion for marine life, she…
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On the Menu - Sam's Kitchen
Romina Mayani is the co-owner of Sam's Kitchen, Gibraltar's pioneering plant-based takeaway and restaurant. Together with her husband, Sam, they set out to prove that meat-free food can be bold, delicious and satisfying, creating a menu packed with incredible flavours, homemade sauces and recipes...
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One of a Kind - Giselle Carreras
In this episode, Rouge sits down with Giselle Carreras, Head of Therapeutic Services at the Care Agency in Gibraltar, for a powerful and insightful conversation about psychology, alcohol and drugs rehabilitation, resilience, and the vital therapeutic services supporting our community. Giselle has...
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One of a Kind - Henry & Priscilla Sacramento
Henry and Priscilla Sacramento are admired members of the Gibraltar community, our very own National Treasures, known for their compassion, generosity, and lifelong dedication to helping others. Priscilla Sacramento devoted many years to education and special needs advocacy, serving as…
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On the Menu - Idan Greenberg
I remember Verdi Verdi as one of those places people talked about with genuine affection — less just a falafel spot and more a gathering place powered by personality, warmth and conversation. Idan Greenberg seemed to be at the centre of that energy: charismatic, endlessly chatty, passionate about...
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Ana Garcia Garnett - Yoga & Writing Retreat
This week On the Sofa With Rouge we’re joined by Gibraltarian writer and director, Ana Garcia Garnett. Ana is a documentary film director turned novelist, who also teaches yoga to both adults and kids. Drawing from both disciplines, Ana is now teaching Yoga and Creative Writing at both literary...
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One of A Kind - Aaron Monteverde
Aaron Monteverde showed extraordinary musical talent from the age of four, quickly earning recognition as a child prodigy. Under the guidance of renowned musician Felipe Campuzano, he developed not only technical skill but a deep and lasting love for the piano. It was during these formative years...
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Associate Professor of Marine Biology - Dr Cathy Lucas
Dr. Cathy Lucas is an Associate Professor of Marine Biology at the University of Southampton and one of the world’s leading experts on jellyfish. With a career spanning decades, her research has taken her across the globe, studying jellyfish species in diverse marine environments and contributing...
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One of a Kind - Nathan Payas
Nathan Payas is the kind of person who quietly inspires everyone around him — not just through what he achieves, but through how he lives. Known for being genuinely warm, grounded, and one of the nicest people you could meet, Nathan brings heart into everything he does. A unique blend of artist…
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On The Menu - Time Out / Bake & Take
Iain Ballantine and Audrey Baglietto, the dynamic duo behind Time Out Café and Bake & Take, have built more than just successful businesses — they’ve created a true community hub at Europort. What started as a shared vision has not only strengthened their partnership but also transformed the…
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Marine Ecologist & Researcher - Dr. Severine Methion
Dr. Séverine Methion is a Marine Ecologist and Researcher at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) in O Grove, Pontevedra, Spain. Her work focuses on the ecology, behavior, and conservation of marine mammals, especially bottlenose dolphins, and how human activities—such as aquaculture...
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Marine Biologist - Dan Jarvis - British Divers Marine Life Rescue
Dan Jarvis is a Marine Biologist and the Director of Welfare and Conservation at the British Divers Marine Life Rescue, the UK charity that last year rescued over 5,000 marine animals. Based in Cornwall, he has dedicated his career to responding to strandings, improving welfare standards, and...
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One of a Kind - Gemma Arias Vasquez
On this episode, I sit down with Gemma Arias Vasquez for a really open and heartfelt conversation about the journey that has shaped the woman she is today. Gemma shares her story with honesty — the experiences that have defined her, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the quiet strength...
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The Gallifrey Foundation - Antoinette Vermilye
Antoinette Vermilye is a marine conservation advocate and co-founder of The Gallifrey Foundation, an organization dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems through education, awareness, and direct action. With a strong focus on ocean preservation, she has worked internationally to promote...
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On The Menu - La Parilla
Dheeraj Punjabi is the driving force behind La Parilla on the Go, one of Gibraltar’s most recognised and trusted food brands. Established 16 years ago, Dheeraj has built his reputation on innovation—creating unique fusion blends of Indo-Asian cuisine and delivering fresh, flavourful meals…
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One of A Kind - Moira Gomez
One of a Kind kicks off this month with a truly special guest — Moira Gomez, President of the Gibraltar Netball Association. Moira may hate the limelight and talking about herself, but once we got going… all the secrets came out. Tough, visionary, resilient and tenacious, she’s also deeply...
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One of a Kind -Intro
One Of A Kind - 12 Gibraltarian’s, 12 months, 12 chats like you’ve never heard them before. Dropping soon. Sponsored by Holland & Barrett Gibraltar. Special thanks to Aaron Monteverde for allowing us to use his music.
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On The Menu - Rendezvous Chargrill
In this episode, Rouge sits down with Daniel Breeze, owner of the much-loved Rendezvous Chargrill, perfectly located in the heart of Queensway Quay. Known for its amazing food, great wine and beautiful setting, Rendezvous Chargrill is a place for every occasion — whether you’re popping in for a...
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Film Maker and Environmental Activist -Ran Levy Yamamori
Ran Levy Yamamori is an Israeli filmmaker, environmental activist, and marine biologist whose work spans continents and oceans. Through powerful storytelling and striking visuals, Ran has dedicated his career to raising global awareness about the urgent need to protect and conserve our oceans....
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On the Menu - Holland & Barrett Gibraltar
This week on On the Menu with Rouge, we explore the world of supplements — a vast global industry used by millions for a wide range of health and wellness goals. Rouge is joined by Paul Victor, Managing Director of Holland & Barrett Gibraltar, part of one of the UK’s most iconic wellness brands....
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On The Menu - The Queens Picturehouse and Eatery
The Queens Picturehouse and Eatery is more than just a restaurant—it’s a living tribute to Gibraltar’s cinematic past. This beautifully decorated hidden gem offers a charming dining and social experience, where nostalgia meets modern elegance. Step inside and you’ll find yourself surrounded by...
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Marine Ecologist and Biogeochemist - Professor Alex Poulton
Professor Alex Poulton is a Marine Ecologist and a Biogeochemist at Heriot-Watt University, with over 25 years of experience in marine science and research. His work focuses on marine ecology and ocean biogeochemistry, with a particular interest in how marine organisms drive the cycling of...
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On The Menu - Vault 13
William Wright grew up as one of three brothers, watching his parents work tirelessly and absorbing the values that would fuel a dream of his own: to one day run a restaurant where he could cook the food he loved for people who loved food just as much. After studying hospitality business and...
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On The Menu - The Seawave Restaurant
Nestled in the beautiful and historic Catalan Bay, The Seawave Restaurant stands proudly as the last remaining restaurant in the area — a true icon of Gibraltar’s coastal heritage. For generations, the Seawave has been woven into the memories of Gibraltarians; almost everyone has visited at some...
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Climate Change Activist - Olivia Mandle
Olivia Mandle is an environmentalist and activist whose journey began when her grandparents took her to a climate change exhibition—a moment that transformed her life. Confronted with the devastating impact of plastic pollution and the threat it poses to our oceans, Olivia knew she had to take...
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On The Menu - John Montegriffo & Vijay Vatvani
It was pure joy to sit down with two local foodies whose passion for food, cooking, and sharing meals with loved ones shines through every word. 🍴 Vijay Vatvani is on the brink of an exciting new chapter, opening his restaurant Tantrum right in the heart of town. In this episode, he shares his...
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On the Menu - Piece of Cake Bakery
I was so excited to welcome back the amazing Sharon Garcia from Piece of Cake Bakery on the podcast! It’s been such a treat to catch up and see just how far she’s come. Over the past three years, Sharon has navigated challenges with grit, grace, and an unstoppable work ethic — and she’s still at...
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Marine Biologist - Professor Alan Deidun
This week we’re joined by Professor Alan Deidun, a renowned Marine Biologist from the University of Malta and head of the Oceanography Malta Research Group. Professor Deidun has devoted his life to exploring and protecting our oceans. His fascination with the sea began during his undergraduate...
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On The Sofa with Rouge @ GIBLDN25
The inaugural #GIBLDN25 Gibraltar London Business Conference was held on 21st October 2025 at the prestigious Oxo Tower Brasserie, bringing together key voices from Gibraltar’s business and creative sectors. This landmark event offered Gibraltarian podcasters a unique opportunity to engage with...
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On The Menu - Edinburgh Arms Gastro Bar
The Edinburgh Arms brings a burst of flavour and passion to Gibraltar’s South District! A beloved local pub with years of history, has now been transformed into Ian Estella’s culinary dream — a vibrant gastro haven where classic dishes meet creative twists and bold fusions. Inspired by his...
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Conservationist - Veta Wade
In this episode, we chat with Veta Wade, Founder and Director of Fish N’ Fins, an NGO on the island of Monserrat in the Caribbean, empowering youth through marine education and turtle conservation. Veta is on a mission to inspire the next generation to protect our oceans, one turtle at a time!...
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On The Menu - With Gastro Rob, Rob Lomax & Davina Barbara
Food, friends, and a whole lot of flavour! Recording a podcast with your mates is always a blast — but when the convo’s all about food, things really start cooking! From diving into what makes Gibraltar cuisine unique, to swapping stories about our grandmas’ legendary recipes, to figuring out how...
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On The Menu - El Kasbah
Tucked away up La Calle Comedia or Castle Street, Rouge sits down with Lauren, the passionate powerhouse behind El Kasbah. From taking over the reins to transforming the menu into a vibrant explosion of colour, creativity, and bold flavours—Lauren’s journey is as inspiring as the dishes she…
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Mentors: Alex Sanchez Soiza & Mikey Rugeroni
This is the Nautilus Project Podcast. Here in Gibraltar, at the gateway between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, we’re proud to keep exploring, learning, and protecting the marine world that connects us all. Today’s episode features Alex Sanchez Soiza & Mikey Rugeroni 2 students currently...
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On The Menu - Curry & Sushi & Fern’s Restaurant
Step into the kitchens of two family-run restaurants whose flavors tell a story of love, resilience, and community. Welcomed into our community with open arms, these culinary dreamers have become local legends—not just for their handcrafted spice blends and unforgettable dishes, but for the way...
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On the Menu with Rouge
Welcome to ‘On the Menu with Rouge’ Series 5 starting next week, your backstage pass to Gibraltar’s sizzling food scene. I’m cooking up conversations that go beyond the plate. Whether you’re a die hard foodie, a restaurant owner or part of Gibraltar’s catering community this is your space. This...
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WTF! - Paul Perez
On the Sofa with Rouge this week, we’re diving into all things LGBTQ+ with the inspiring Paul Perez — Chair of Gibraltar’s LGBTQ+ Committee and educator at Bayside School. In his leadership role, Paul spearheads vital initiatives such as public awareness campaigns, the LGBTQ+ Book Club, support...
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WTF! - Wayne and Wesley Warwick
This is an extraordinary story of a father and son—two remarkable men whose lives were forever changed by the impact of a stroke. Wayne transformed his life, made a full recovery, and embraced a new way of living. Wes, on the other hand, continues to navigate the profound and challenging effects…
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WTF! - Maurice Valarino- The Taourarte Educational Charitable Trust
The Taourarte Educational Charitable Trust was born out of a simple act of kindness. Maurice Valarino, along with a group of fellow travelers, found themselves stranded in the remote village of Taourarte during a violent storm, unable to return to Chefchaouen. The villagers welcomed them with...
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WTF! - Jimmy Alcantara, Ian Howes, Tony Yusifredo & Glenn Balantine
A determined team of six—four on bikes, two in a support vehicle—took on an epic 1,200km challenge from Lourdes to Gibraltar, battling blistering heat, relentless rain, steep climbs, and sleepless nights. After 10 intense days on the road, they crossed the finish line, cycling through…
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WTF! - Jayden Fa
Jayden Fa has been a creative force since childhood, with a passion for music and a keen eye for photography. From an early age, he experimented with concepts and setups, often roping in friends to bring his imaginative ideas to life. His flair for fashion photography quickly gained recognition…
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WTF! - Eloise Durante
Living with a disability comes with its own set of challenges, and on my podcast, I’ve had the privilege of sharing the stories of several neurodivergent friends from our community. This week, I’m joined by Eloise Durante. Eloise was born with aniridia—a rare genetic condition that affects the...
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WTF! - Netball Gibraltar; Moira Gomez, Gerry Rodriguez, Janice Moreno, Natasha Mena, Lorena Davidson & Emma Torres
Gibraltar Netball: Passion, Power & Purpose In this empowering episode, we dive into the world of Gibraltar Netball — a sport driven by passionate women who have built a powerful legacy on and off the court. Moira Gomez, President of Gibraltar Netball for 32 years, shares how she's helped put the...
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WTF! - Navin Mayani - CYE-CYL
Change your energy, change your life CYE-CYL. Don’t feel afraid to manifest what’s in your heart and achieve anything you set your mind to. This is the philosophy of Navin Mayani a very spiritual and down to earth mentor and leader empowering young people to reach their goals, to dream and dream...
About this show
Join Rouge for her first podcast series "Extraordinary Ordinary People". Interviewing friends and family from all walks of life with incredible individual stories.
Presented and Recorded by Michelle Rugeroni.
Sound edited and produced by Charlie Hurst.
Original artwork designed by Beatrice Garcia.
Hosted by
Michelle Rugeroni